HS Code for Industrial rubber gloves

Industrial rubber gloves are classified under HS code 4015.19. This classification is governed by Chapter 40, which covers rubber and articles thereof. Heading 4015 specifically includes articles of apparel and clothing accessories (including gloves, mittens, and mitts) for all purposes, made of vulcanized rubber other than hard rubber. The subheading 4015.19 is a residual category for "other" gloves, meaning those that are not specifically designed for surgical use. Industrial gloves are typically thicker and more durable than surgical gloves, designed to protect workers from chemicals, abrasions, or environmental hazards. The classification is determined by the material (vulcanized rubber) and the intended use (general industrial protection vs. medical surgical procedures). The vulcanization process, which involves treating the rubber with sulfur and heat to improve its strength and elasticity, is a prerequisite for classification in this heading. If the gloves were made of "hard rubber" (ebonite), they would fall under heading 4017. The classification also considers the construction of the glove; if the glove is made of textile fabric that has been merely dipped in rubber, it may be classified in Chapter 61 or 62 as a textile article, depending on the thickness and the visibility of the rubber coating to the naked eye.

Products Included

• Chemical-resistant vulcanized rubber gloves
• Heavy-duty industrial work gloves
• Rubber mittens for industrial handling
• Insulated rubber gloves for non-electrical work
• Reusable household-style rubber gloves for industrial cleaning

Common Misclassification

Industrial rubber gloves are often confused with HS code 4015.11, which is strictly for surgical gloves. Surgical gloves are usually sterile and have specific thinness requirements that industrial gloves do not meet. Another common misclassification is HS code 3926.20, which covers gloves made of plastics (like PVC or Nitrile if considered plastic). If the glove is made of synthetic rubber, it remains in Chapter 40, but if it is primarily plastic, it moves to Chapter 39. Additionally, textile-supported gloves with a rubber coating may be classified under 6116 or 6216 depending on the predominant material by weight.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Industrial rubber gloves?

The HS code for industrial rubber gloves (non-surgical) is 4015.19.

Are nitrile gloves classified under the same code?

Yes, nitrile is considered a synthetic rubber in the HS system, so nitrile industrial gloves are generally classified under 4015.19, provided they are vulcanized.