HS Code for Plaited hat bodies

Plaited hat bodies are classified under HS code 6502.00. This heading is dedicated to hat-shapes that are produced by plaiting or by assembling strips of any material, including straw, wood shavings, bark, or synthetic fibers. A defining characteristic for classification under 6502.00 is that the items must be in a semi-finished state. Specifically, they must not have been blocked to shape, must not have made brims, and must not be lined or trimmed. These items are often referred to as "hoods" or "plateaux" in the millinery trade. The classification is determined by the construction method (plaiting or assembling strips) and the lack of finishing. Once a hat body is shaped into a specific hat form using heat or pressure (blocking) or receives decorative elements, it no longer qualifies for this heading. This code ensures that raw materials for the headgear industry are distinguished from finished consumer goods.

Products Included

• Unblocked straw hat hoods
• Plaited paper-strip hat bodies
• Unfinished sisal hat shapes
• Hemp hat bodies (untrimmed and unlined)
• Man-made fiber plaited hat forms

Common Misclassification

Plaited hat bodies are most commonly misclassified under HS code 6504.00, which covers finished hats and other headgear made by plaiting or assembling strips. The distinction is that 6504.00 applies to hats that are blocked, lined, or trimmed. Another common error is confusing them with 6501.00, which covers hat-forms, hat bodies, and hoods of felt. While both 6501 and 6502 cover semi-finished headgear, 6501 is strictly for felted materials, whereas 6502 is for plaited or strip-assembled materials.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Plaited hat bodies?

The HS code for plaited or strip-assembled hat bodies that are unblocked and untrimmed is 6502.00.

Can a finished straw hat be classified under 6502.00?

No, a finished straw hat that has been blocked to shape or trimmed must be classified under HS code 6504.00.