HS Code for Raw lambskins with wool

Raw lambskins with wool are classified under HS code 4102.10. Chapter 41 of the Harmonized System covers raw hides and skins (other than furskins) and leather. Heading 4102 specifically addresses "Raw skins of sheep or lambs, fresh, or salted, dried, limed, pickled or otherwise preserved, but not tanned, parchment-dressed or further prepared." Subheading 4102.10 is reserved for those skins that are "with wool on." This classification is strictly for skins in their raw state or preserved for transport; any further processing such as tanning or dressing would move the product to a different heading. The presence of wool is the defining characteristic for this specific code, distinguishing it from dehaired skins. The General Rules for Interpretation (GRI) require that the product be evaluated based on its state at the time of import. For 4102.10, the skins must not have undergone any tanning process, including "pre-tanning" that reverses the raw state. The preservation methods allowed—salting, drying, liming, or pickling—are intended to prevent putrefaction during transport and storage rather than to convert the skin into leather. The wool must be naturally attached to the skin; if the wool has been removed, the skin moves to subheadings 4102.21 or 4102.29. This code is vital for the global leather and textile supply chain, ensuring that raw materials are tracked separately from semi-processed or finished leather goods. The distinction is also important for veterinary and phytosanitary controls, as raw skins with wool carry different biological risks than processed leather.

Products Included

• Fresh raw lambskins with wool attached
• Wet-salted or dry-salted sheepskins with wool
• Pickled lambskins that have not been de-wooled
• Dried sheepskins intended for later tanning

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs with HS code 4102.21, which is for raw sheep or lamb skins that have been "pickled" but specifically without wool. Another frequent error involves HS code 4301.30, which covers raw furskins of lamb (such as Astrakhan, Broadtail, Caracul, or Persian lamb). If the lambskin is considered a "furskin" due to the breed and the intended use of the wool as fur, it must be classified in Chapter 43 rather than Chapter 41.

FAQ

What is the HS code for raw lambskins?

The HS code for raw lambskins with the wool still attached is 4102.10. If the wool has been removed, the code changes to 4102.21 or 4102.29.

Can tanned lambskins be classified here?

No, tanned lambskins are classified under heading 4105 if they are sheep or lamb skin leather, or under Chapter 43 if they are tanned furskins.