HS Code for Narrow fabric loom

The HS code 8446.10 applies to weaving machines, commonly known as looms, specifically designed for the production of fabrics with a width of 30 centimeters or less. These machines are specialized industrial equipment used in the manufacture of ribbons, labels, webbings, and other narrow-width textiles. Unlike larger industrial looms that handle wide bolts of cloth, these machines are engineered for high-speed production of narrow strips, often weaving multiple ribbons simultaneously. The classification is determined by the mechanical capability of the machine rather than the material it processes. It is vital to distinguish these weaving machines from knitting machines (84.47) or machines used for making lace or embroidery, as the mechanical operation of interlacing warp and weft threads is the defining characteristic of heading 84.46. The 30 cm limit refers to the maximum width of the fabric the machine is capable of weaving. These looms can be shuttle-based or needle-based (needle looms), but as long as they are for weaving fabrics 30 cm or less, they fall under 8446.10. This classification includes both manual and power-operated looms, though modern industrial versions are almost exclusively automated. Maintenance parts for these looms are generally classified under 8448.

Products Included

• Needle looms for ribbons
• Shuttle looms for narrow webbings
• Label weaving machines
• Narrow fabric needle looms
• Mule looms for narrow tapes

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with HS code 8446.21, which is for looms weaving fabrics exceeding 30 cm in width. It is also frequently misidentified as HS code 8447.11 or 8447.20, which are for knitting machines. Because narrow fabrics can be either woven or knitted, the buyer must confirm if the machine uses needles to interloop yarn (knitting) or shuttles/needles to interlace warp and weft (weaving).

FAQ

What is the HS code for a narrow fabric loom?

The HS code is 8446.10, which covers weaving machines for fabrics of a width not exceeding 30 cm.

Does this code include knitting machines for ribbons?

No, knitting machines are classified under heading 84.47. HS code 8446.10 is strictly for weaving machines (looms).