HS Code for Raw shorn wool

Raw shorn wool is classified under HS code 5101.11. Chapter 51 deals with wool, fine or coarse animal hair, and horsehair yarn and woven fabric. Heading 5101 covers "Wool, not carded or combed." The subheading 5101.11 specifically identifies "Greasy, including fleece-washed wool" that is "Shorn." This classification is applied to wool that has been removed from live sheep by shearing and has not yet undergone the scouring, carding, or combing processes. The term "greasy" refers to wool that still contains its natural lanolin (wool grease) and has not been chemically cleaned or degreased. Fleece-washed wool, which has been washed on the sheep's back before shearing, is also included here. The distinction between "shorn" and "other" (such as wool pulled from the skin of a slaughtered animal) is a critical factor in determining the correct six-digit subheading. According to the General Rules for Interpretation (GRI), the product must be classified in its state at the time of crossing the border. Raw shorn wool is a primary agricultural commodity and is often traded in large bales. The classification excludes wool that has been carbonized (to remove vegetable matter) or wool that has been further processed into tops or rovings. Understanding this code is essential for textile manufacturers and agricultural exporters, as it distinguishes the most basic form of wool from processed fibers that have higher value-added components and different trade restrictions.

Products Included

• Greasy wool shorn from live sheep
• Fleece-washed shorn wool
• Raw wool in bales, not degreased
• Unprocessed shorn wool containing natural lanolin

Common Misclassification

Raw shorn wool is frequently misclassified under HS code 5101.19, which covers "other" greasy wool that is not shorn (such as pulled wool). Another common error is using HS code 5105.10 or 5105.29, which are for wool that has been carded or combed. Once the wool undergoes carding to align the fibers, it leaves heading 5101 entirely.

FAQ

What is the HS code for greasy shorn wool?

The HS code for greasy shorn wool that has not been carded or combed is 5101.11.

Does this code include wool that has been scoured?

No, scoured wool (wool that has been degreased but not carbonized) is classified under HS code 5101.21 if it is shorn, or 5101.29 if it is not shorn.