HS Code for Lanolin

Lanolin is classified under HS code 1505.00, which covers wool grease and fatty substances derived from it. Lanolin is a complex wax secreted by the sebaceous glands of sheep, and its classification is based on its origin and chemical nature. Chapter 15 of the Harmonized System deals with animal or vegetable fats and oils and their cleavage products. Lanolin is unique because it is technically a wax, not a fat, but it is grouped here due to its extraction from wool grease. The heading 1505.00 includes both the crude wool grease, often referred to as "suint," and the refined lanolin known as "adeps lanae." The refining process involves removing impurities, odors, and free fatty acids, but the resulting substance remains under this code regardless of its purity level, provided it has not been mixed with other ingredients to form a finished cosmetic or medicinal product. The classification of lanolin under 1505.00 is supported by the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, which clarify that wool grease is the fat-like substance exuded by sheep onto their wool. When this grease is extracted, usually through scouring the wool with solvents or hot water, it is known as crude wool grease. Refined lanolin is obtained by further processing this grease to remove impurities. Lanolin has unique emulsifying properties, allowing it to absorb large quantities of water, which makes it highly valuable in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. However, for the purposes of HS classification, the purity level does not change the heading unless the substance is modified into a specific preparation.

Products Included

• Anhydrous lanolin
• Crude wool grease
• Refined wool wax (Adeps lanae)
• Liquid lanolin (lanolin oil)
• Lanolin alcohols

Common Misclassification

Lanolin is often misclassified under 3004.90 if it is packaged as a medicament for skin treatment. It is also confused with 3304.99 when it is prepared as a finished cosmetic cream or lotion containing perfumes or other active cosmetic ingredients.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Lanolin?

The HS code for lanolin and wool grease is 1505.00.

Is medical grade lanolin classified under this code?

Yes, bulk refined lanolin is 1505.00, but retail-packaged nipple creams or ointments are typically moved to Chapter 30 or 33.