HS Code for Peat

HS code 681520 is specifically assigned to articles made of peat. While raw peat used as a fuel source or a soil amendment is classified in Chapter 27 (specifically 270300), manufactured items where peat is the primary constituent material fall under Chapter 68. This chapter encompasses articles of stone, plaster, cement, asbestos, mica, or similar mineral substances. Heading 6815 is a residual heading for articles of stone or other mineral substances not elsewhere specified or included in the nomenclature. Subheading 681520 provides a specific carve-out for peat-based products. The classification applies when the peat has undergone a manufacturing process to be shaped into a specific article, such as molded pots for horticulture or insulating sheets for construction. The transition from Chapter 27 to Chapter 68 occurs when the material is no longer just a raw mineral substance but has been transformed into a finished or semi-finished product with a specific utility beyond its use as a raw material or fuel.

Products Included

• Molded peat pots for seed starting
• Peat-based biodegradable planting containers
• Compressed peat sheets for thermal insulation
• Peat blocks for acoustic dampening
• Decorative articles made of pressed peat
• Peat-based filters for water treatment (shaped)

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 270300, which covers raw peat, including peat litter, whether or not agglomerated. Importers often use 270300 for peat pots, but because the pots are manufactured articles, 681520 is the correct code. Another confusion arises with HS code 310100, which covers animal or vegetable fertilizers. While peat is often used in fertilizers, pure peat articles are not considered fertilizers in the context of Chapter 31 unless they are mixed with chemical nutrients or other fertilizing elements.

FAQ

What is the HS code for peat?

Articles made of peat are classified under HS code 681520. Raw peat for fuel or gardening is classified under 270300.

Are peat pots classified as gardening tools?

No, peat pots are classified by their constituent material under HS code 681520 as articles of peat, rather than as mechanical tools or equipment.