Product classification
HS code for Leather cases: 4202.91
Cases and containers, n.e.c. in heading 4202, with outer surface of leather or of composition leather.
Classification of leather cases under HS 4202.91
HS code 4202.91 covers a variety of containers and cases that feature an outer surface of leather or composition leather. This is a 'not elsewhere classified' (n.e.c.) category within heading 4202, meaning it captures items that are not specifically mentioned in other subheadings like 4202.11 (trunks and suitcases) or 4202.31 (wallets and pocket items). The items in this category are generally designed for the long-term storage, protection, or transport of specific objects. The classification depends heavily on the exterior material. If the outer surface is made of plastic sheeting or textile materials, the item would move to 4202.92. The internal structure or lining is less relevant than the external surface for this specific code. Common examples include specialized cases for tools, musical instruments, or optical equipment where the leather provides durability and protection. To qualify for 4202.91, the case must have a rigid or semi-rigid form designed to hold specific contents. This code is essential for manufacturers of specialized leather goods that do not fit the standard definitions of luggage or handbags. Customs authorities look for the 'outer surface' rule, which states that the material covering the exterior must be leather, regardless of what the internal frame is made of (wood, plastic, or metal).
- Covers
- Leather tool cases and bags
- Leather jewelry boxes (not of precious metal)
- Leather binocular cases
- Leather musical instrument cases
- Leather camera cases
- Leather gun cases and holsters
- Leather cutlery cases
- Also under 4202.91
- Louis Vuitton Keepall
- Coach Metropolitan Briefcase
- Saddleback Leather Classic Briefcase
- Tumi Alpha 3 Leather Briefcase
Codes often confused with 4202.91
Common mistake. A frequent mistake is classifying these items under 4202.11, which is strictly for trunks, suitcases, and vanity cases. Another error is using 4202.31, which is reserved for items normally carried in the pocket or handbag, such as wallets. If the case is made of molded plastic with only a leather trim, it may be misclassified; the entire outer surface must be leather to satisfy 4202.91.
Top exporters and importers of HS 420291 (the code used for leather cases), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 420291 (the code used for leather cases) in UN Comtrade data was Italy, with 18% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 31% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 420291, not only leather cases.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Italy $337M 18% of world exports
- 2 France $284M 15% of world exports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$172M 9.1% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $1.9B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Japan $1.1B 31% of world imports
- 2 United States $706M 21% of world imports
- 3 Singapore $175M 5.2% of world imports
World total: $3.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for leather cases
Brazil classifies leather cases under NCM 4202.91.00: HS 4202.91 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about leather cases
What is the HS code for Leather cases?
The HS code for Leather cases is 420291 (Cases and containers; n.e.c. in heading 4202, with outer surface of leather or of composition leather).
How do I classify Leather cases for customs?
Leather cases is classified under HS code 420291 — Cases and containers; n.e.c. in heading 4202, with outer surface of leather or of composition leather. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the HS code for leather tool cases?
Leather tool cases are classified under HS code 4202.91, provided the outer surface is made of natural or composition leather.
Does this code include leather wallets?
No, leather wallets and purses are classified under HS code 4202.31, as they are considered articles normally carried in the pocket or handbag.
Which countries are the top exporters of leather cases (HS 420291)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 420291 (the code used for leather cases) in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($337M, 18% of world exports), France ($284M) and Vietnam (about $172M). World exports came to about $1.9B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of leather cases (HS 420291)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 420291 (the code used for leather cases) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($1.1B, 31% of world imports), the United States ($706M) and Singapore ($175M). World imports came to about $3.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Leather cases the same in all countries?
The base HS code 420291 for Leather cases is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for leather cases in Brazil?
In Brazil, leather cases (HS 420291) is classified under NCM 4202.91.00.