HS Code for white cotton fabric
HS code 521212 is designated for "other" woven fabrics of cotton, bleached, weighing not more than 200 grams per square meter (g/m2). This code is part of Chapter 52, which is dedicated to cotton and cotton products. The term "other" is significant because it indicates that this code is a residual category for fabrics that do not meet the specific weave descriptions found in headings 5208 or 5210. For example, if a fabric is a standard plain weave, twill, or sateen, it is usually classified under 5208. However, if the fabric features a complex, irregular, or specialty weave that is not elsewhere specified (n.e.c.), it falls under 5212. The "bleached" designation means the fabric has been chemically whitened. The weight limit of 200g/m2 is a strict threshold; fabrics exceeding this weight are moved to a different subheading. This classification is often used for specialty lightweight textiles used in medical, industrial, or high-end fashion applications where the weave structure is unique.
Products Included
- Lightweight bleached cotton specialty weaves
- White cotton gauze (not for medical use)
- Bleached cotton dobby fabrics (n.e.c.)
- White cotton jacquard (under 200g/m2)
- Bleached cotton mixed-fiber fabrics (cotton predominant)
Common Misclassification
The most frequent misclassification is with HS code 520821 through 520829, which covers bleached cotton fabrics of specific weaves like plain or twill. Importers often default to 5208 without realizing that 5212 is required for "other" weaves. Another common error is confusing it with 521222, which is the code for bleached cotton fabrics weighing more than 200g/m2. Precise measurement of weight and weave analysis is necessary to distinguish between these codes.
FAQ
What is the HS code for white cotton fabric under 200g/m2?
The HS code for bleached, other woven cotton fabrics weighing not more than 200g/m2 is 521212.
What does "n.e.c." mean in this classification?
It stands for "not elsewhere classified," meaning the fabric does not fit into the specific weave categories defined in headings 5208 to 5211.
Alternative HS Codes
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for white cotton fabric?
The HS code for white cotton fabric is 521212 (Fabrics, woven; of cotton, bleached, weighing not more than 200g/m2, n.e.c. in chapter 52).
How do I classify white cotton fabric for customs?
white cotton fabric is classified under HS code 521212 — Fabrics, woven; of cotton, bleached, weighing not more than 200g/m2, n.e.c. in chapter 52. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for white cotton fabric the same in all countries?
The base HS code 521212 for white cotton fabric is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.