HS Code for Plaiting materials
Plaiting materials of vegetable origin are classified under HS code 1401.90. This subheading serves as a residual category within heading 1401, which covers vegetable materials of a kind used primarily for plaiting, such as for baskets, mats, or screens. While 1401.10 specifically covers bamboos and 1401.20 covers rattans, 1401.90 includes all other vegetable plaiting materials. This includes materials like cereal straw (cleaned, bleached, or dyed), lime bark, willow (osier), reeds, rushes, and raffia. To fall under this classification, the materials must be in their raw state or have undergone simple processing like cleaning, splitting, or dyeing, but they must not yet be manufactured into finished articles. The classification is based on the botanical nature of the material and its intended industrial or handicraft use. These materials are valued for their flexibility and strength in traditional weaving and modern eco-friendly product manufacturing.
Products Included
- Raffia fibers
- Osier (willow) twigs and branches
- Cleaned cereal straw for weaving
- Lime bark strips
- Reeds and rushes for basketry
Common Misclassification
Plaiting materials are often misclassified under 1401.10 (Bamboo) or 1401.20 (Rattan) if the specific plant species is not correctly identified. More significantly, they are frequently confused with products in Chapter 46, such as HS code 4601, which covers manufactures of plaiting materials like mats, screens, and basketwork. The distinction is that Chapter 14 covers the raw or semi-processed material, while Chapter 46 covers the finished goods made from those materials. Additionally, if the material is intended for use as stuffing or padding, it may fall under heading 1404.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Plaiting materials?
The HS code for vegetable plaiting materials (excluding bamboo and rattan) is 1401.90.
Does 1401.90 include finished wicker baskets?
No, finished wicker baskets are classified under heading 4602. HS code 1401.90 only covers the raw or semi-processed vegetable materials used to make them.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Plaiting materials?
The HS code for Plaiting materials is 140190 (Vegetable materials of a kind used primarily for plaiting; n.e.c. in heading no. 1401).
How do I classify Plaiting materials for customs?
Plaiting materials is classified under HS code 140190 — Vegetable materials of a kind used primarily for plaiting; n.e.c. in heading no. 1401. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Plaiting materials the same in all countries?
The base HS code 140190 for Plaiting materials is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.