HS Code for Unrooted slips

Unrooted slips and cuttings are classified under HS code 0602.10. This classification is governed by Chapter 6 of the Harmonized System, which encompasses live trees and other plants, bulbs, roots, and the like. Heading 0602 specifically covers other live plants, including their roots and cuttings. The subheading 0602.10 is dedicated to unrooted cuttings and slips, which are vegetative portions of a plant intended for propagation. These items are distinguished by the fact that they have not yet developed a root system. Classification under this code requires that the product be a living part of a plant capable of developing into a full plant. This includes stems, side shoots, or leaves that can be used to grow new specimens. The technical distinction is based on the biological state of the item at the time of crossing the border; once a cutting develops roots, it must be reclassified under other subheadings of 0602, such as 0602.90.

Products Included

• Unrooted softwood cuttings
• Unrooted hardwood cuttings
• Plant slips for grafting or planting
• Leaf cuttings without root development
• Vine cuttings (unrooted)

Common Misclassification

Unrooted slips are often confused with HS code 0601, which covers bulbs, tubers, tuberous roots, corms, crowns, and rhizomes. While both are used for propagation, the physical structure of a slip (usually a stem or leaf) differs from the storage organs classified in 0601. Another common misclassification is 0603, which covers cut flowers and flower buds for bouquets; if the cutting is intended for decorative use rather than planting, it may fall under 0603. Finally, if the slip has even minimal root development, it should be classified under 0602.90 rather than 0602.10.

FAQ

What is the HS code for unrooted slips?

The HS code for unrooted slips and cuttings is 0602.10.

Can dormant cuttings be classified under this code?

Yes, dormant unrooted cuttings are classified under 0602.10 as long as they are live and intended for planting or grafting.