HS Code for unbleached heavy cotton
Unbleached heavy cotton fabric is classified under HS code 5212.21. Chapter 52 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to cotton and its products. Heading 5212 acts as a residual category for woven cotton fabrics that do not fit into the more specific descriptions found in headings 5208 through 5211 (which cover fabrics based on specific cotton percentages and weave types like plain, twill, or sateen). Subheading 5212.21 is specifically for fabrics weighing more than 200 grams per square meter (g/m2) that are unbleached. "Unbleached" refers to fabric woven from "grey" yarns that have not been subjected to bleaching, dyeing, or printing processes. The classification is determined by three primary criteria: the fiber content (predominantly cotton), the weight (exceeding the 200g/m2 threshold), and the state of finish (unbleached). This code is typically used for heavy-duty industrial fabrics, canvas, or base materials intended for subsequent dyeing or finishing. Accurate weight measurement and verification of the unbleached state are essential for correct classification.
Products Included
- Heavy unbleached cotton canvas
- Grey cotton duck fabric (>200g/m2)
- Unbleached industrial cotton cloth
- Heavyweight plain weave cotton (not elsewhere specified)
- Unbleached cotton upholstery base fabric
Common Misclassification
This code is often confused with 5209.11, which also covers heavy unbleached cotton but is restricted to specific plain weaves. If the fabric has a specialized weave not covered by 5209, it must fall under 5212.21. Another common error is using 5208.11, which is for unbleached cotton weighing 100g/m2 or less. Additionally, if the fabric has been bleached, it must be moved to 5212.22, even if all other characteristics remain the same.
FAQ
What is the HS code for unbleached heavy cotton?
The HS code for woven cotton fabrics, unbleached and weighing more than 200g/m2, not elsewhere specified, is 5212.21.
When should I use 5212.21 instead of 5209.11?
Use 5212.21 if the fabric weave does not meet the specific definitions of plain, twill, or sateen weaves required for classification under heading 5209.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for unbleached heavy cotton?
The HS code for unbleached heavy cotton is 521221 (Fabrics, woven; of cotton, unbleached, weighing more than 200g/m2, n.e.c. in chapter 52).
How do I classify unbleached heavy cotton for customs?
unbleached heavy cotton is classified under HS code 521221 — Fabrics, woven; of cotton, unbleached, weighing more than 200g/m2, n.e.c. in chapter 52. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for unbleached heavy cotton the same in all countries?
The base HS code 521221 for unbleached heavy cotton is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.