HS Code for Wet-blue exotic leather
View full HS code detailsThe classification of wet-blue exotic leather under HS code 4106.91 is determined by the biological origin of the animal and the specific stage of the tanning process. This code serves as a residual category for hides and skins of animals that do not fall under the more common categories of bovine, equine, ovine, caprine, or swine. The term "wet-blue" specifically refers to hides that have undergone chrome tanning but have not yet been dried. During this stage, the chromium salts react with the collagen in the skin, resulting in a characteristic pale blue color and a high moisture content. For a product to be classified here, it must be in the wet state and must not have undergone further preparation such as dyeing, fat-liquoring, or finishing. This classification is critical for international trade as it distinguishes semi-processed industrial materials from raw hides or finished consumer leather goods. The animal types included here are typically non-domesticated or less common species, excluding reptiles which have their own specific subheadings.
Products Included
- Wet-blue deer hides
- Wet-blue kangaroo skins
- Wet-blue antelope hides
- Wet-blue camel leather
- Wet-blue elk skins
- Chrome-tanned ostrich skins (without feathers)
Common Misclassification
Wet-blue exotic leather is frequently misclassified under HS code 4106.40, which is specifically reserved for reptiles such as crocodiles, snakes, and lizards. Another common error is using HS code 4104, which is strictly for bovine or equine animals. Importers must ensure the animal species is clearly identified on the commercial invoice to avoid these errors. Additionally, if the leather has been dried or further prepared, it must move to heading 4113.
FAQ
What is the HS code for wet-blue exotic leather?
The HS code for wet-blue exotic leather from animals other than bovine, equine, ovine, swine, or reptiles is 4106.91.
Does this code include wet-blue alligator skins?
No, alligator and other reptile skins are classified under HS code 4106.40 if they are in the wet-blue or crust state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Wet-blue exotic leather?
The HS code for Wet-blue exotic leather is 410691 (Tanned or crust hides and skins; of animals other than equine, ovine, bovine, goats or kids, swine and reptiles, without wool or hair on, whether or not split, but not further prepared, in the wet state (including wet-blue)).
How do I classify Wet-blue exotic leather for customs?
Wet-blue exotic leather is classified under HS code 410691 — Tanned or crust hides and skins; of animals other than equine, ovine, bovine, goats or kids, swine and reptiles, without wool or hair on, whether or not split, but not further prepared, in the wet state (including wet-blue). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Wet-blue exotic leather the same in all countries?
The base HS code 410691 for Wet-blue exotic leather is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.