HS Code for Lightweight greige cotton fabric

HS code 520811 is reserved for high-content cotton fabrics (85% or more by weight) that are in an unbleached state. The fabric must be of a plain weave construction and weigh no more than 100g/m2. This is a very specific classification for the lightest category of greige cotton goods. The plain weave is the simplest interlacing of warp and weft yarns, where each weft thread passes over and under each warp thread in a 1x1 ratio. The unbleached status, often referred to as 'greige' or 'gray' cloth, means the fabric is in its raw state after leaving the loom, containing natural impurities and sizing agents like starch. The weight limit of 100g/m2 identifies these as very fine, lightweight materials, such as those used for high-quality linings, bandages, or base cloths for fine printing. If the fabric were to undergo bleaching, it would move to 5208.21. If the weight exceeded 100g/m2 but remained under 200g/m2, it would be classified under 5208.12. This code is fundamental for the trade of base fabrics intended for further processing into high-end apparel or medical textiles. The 85% cotton threshold is a strict requirement; any blend with more than 15% synthetic fiber would move the product to heading 5210.

Products Included

• Unbleached cotton gauze (85%+ cotton)
• Lightweight greige muslin (plain weave)
• Unbleached cotton voile (under 100g/m2)
• Raw plain-weave cotton lawn
• Greige cotton cambric (lightweight)

Common Misclassification

Common misclassifications include HS code 5208.21, which is for bleached plain weave cotton. Another frequent error is 5208.12, which covers unbleached plain weave cotton weighing more than 100g/m2 but less than 200g/m2. If the weave is not plain (e.g., twill or satin), it must be classified under 5208.13 or 5208.19. Furthermore, if the cotton content is less than 85%, the correct code would be 5210.11, provided it is mixed with man-made fibers and weighs under 200g/m2.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Lightweight greige cotton fabric?

The HS code for unbleached, plain-weave woven fabrics containing 85% or more cotton and weighing 100g/m2 or less is 5208.11.

What does 'plain weave' mean in this context?

Plain weave is a basic textile weave where the working yarns are interlaced in an alternating over-and-under pattern. It is the most common and simplest weave structure, also known as tabby weave.