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HS-2 · Chapter 45

HS chapter 45: Cork and articles of cork

Section IXWood and articles of wood; wood charcoal; cork and articles of cork; manufactures of straw, of esparto or of other plaiting materials; basketware and wickerwork

Cork and articles of cork, classified under HS-45, include items like raw cork, cork stoppers, and agglomerated cork products. For instance, if you're importing natural cork sheets for flooring, understanding the correct classification is crucial for compliance and duty assessment.

To determine the appropriate HS-4 code, start by identifying the product form and end-use. For example, if your product is raw cork, you would look at 4501. If it's processed into sheets or blocks, then 4502 might be applicable. Pay attention to the specific descriptions to avoid confusion with similar products.

Next, drill down to HS-6 by examining the detailed notes associated with each HS-4 heading. For instance, if your product is agglomerated cork, you would refer to 4504. Make sure to check the binding substances and any additional processing that may affect the classification.

Always verify national digits that may apply in your country, as they can vary significantly. Consult with your customs broker for any rulings or specific requirements that might impact your import or export process.

Terms & reference phrasing

These phrases describe how this chapter is discussed in trade, customs, and search—they stay on this page for context; they are not search shortcuts.

cork products · natural cork · agglomerated cork · cork stoppers · raw cork · cork sheets · cork flooring · cork insulation · HS-45 classification · importing cork · exporting cork · customs broker · HS-4 codes · HS-6 codes · cork articles · cork waste · cork granules

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Next best action

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Related topics

Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.

  • importing natural cork sheets for flooring
  • classifying cork stoppers for wine bottles
  • understanding HS-4 codes for cork products
  • requirements for agglomerated cork import
  • how to classify crushed cork for export
  • determining HS-6 codes for cork articles
  • specific regulations for importing cork waste
  • consulting a customs broker for cork shipments

Examples & common questions

Example products are typical trade descriptions. Questions below are how people often frame classification for this chapter—use them as reading context, then confirm against your tariff book and legal notes.

Example products

  • Raw cork logs for manufacturing
  • Cork stoppers for wine bottles
  • Cork sheets for flooring applications
  • Agglomerated cork boards for insulation
  • Crushed cork for use in gardening products
  • Natural cork strips for crafts
  • Debarked cork blocks for industrial use

Common classification questions

  • What is the HS code for cork products?
  • How do I classify raw cork for import?
  • Are there specific regulations for cork stoppers?
  • What are the differences between HS-4501 and HS-4502?
  • How to determine the right HS-4 code for agglomerated cork?
  • What additional information do I need for cork import?
  • Can I use crushed cork for gardening under HS-45?
  • What are the national digits for cork products in my country?

Questions & answers

For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.

What types of cork products are covered under HS-45?
HS-45 covers natural cork, agglomerated cork, and various articles made from these materials, including raw cork, cork stoppers, and cork sheets.
How do I know if my cork product falls under HS-4501 or HS-4502?
If your product is raw or simply prepared cork, it falls under HS-4501. If it is processed into blocks, sheets, or strips, it should be classified under HS-4502.
What should I check for when classifying agglomerated cork?
Examine the binding substance used and the product's end-use to determine if it fits under HS-4504 for agglomerated cork.
Are there any special import regulations for cork products?
Yes, regulations may vary by country. It's essential to check with your customs broker for specific import requirements and rulings.
Can I use crushed cork for gardening under HS-45?
Yes, crushed cork can be classified under HS-4501 as waste cork, but ensure it meets any local regulations for gardening products.

All HS-4 headings in chapter 45 (4)

Each HS-4 links to a dedicated page with plain-English explanation, HS-6 subheadings, and FAQs. Use Browse to open the lookup in heading mode for that line.

HS-4WCO heading textBrowse
4501Natural cork, raw or simply prepared; waste cork; crushed, granulated or ground cork
4502Natural cork, debacked or roughly squared, or in rectangular (including square) blocks, plates, sheets or strip, (including sharp-edged blanks for corks or stoppers)
4503Cork; articles of natural cork
4504Agglomerated cork (with or without a binding substance) and articles of agglomerated cork

HS-4 directory (chapter 45)

Browse first heading (HS-4 4501)

Opens the lookup in heading browse for the first HS-4 block in this chapter (4501). Prefer the table above for a specific HS-4 page with full copy.

Before you file customs documents

Chapter pages on TradeTools are educational summaries, not legal classification determinations. Cross-check candidate codes with official notes, advance rulings where available, and your broker for high-value or borderline goods.

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