What is the HS code for raw cotton?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
HS-2 · Chapter 52
HS chapter 52: Cotton
Section XI — Textiles and textile articles
Cotton products range from raw, unprocessed cotton to finished fabrics and garments. For example, a shipment of cotton yarn meant for textile manufacturing falls under this chapter. Understanding the specific HS-4 codes is crucial for accurate customs declarations and compliance.
To determine the appropriate HS-4 code, examine the product's form and intended use. For instance, if you're dealing with cotton that hasn't been carded or combed, you'll likely look at 5201. If it's waste material, then 5202 is the right choice. Each HS-4 code is tailored to specific characteristics, so pay close attention to the product description.
Once you've identified the HS-4 code, you can drill down to HS-6 by checking the detailed notes associated with that code. For example, if you have cotton yarn containing 85% or more cotton, you would refer to 5205 or 5207 depending on whether it’s retail-ready. Ensure you clarify the weight and composition to avoid confusion with similar codes.
It's also important to consider any national digits that may apply in your country, as these can further refine your classification. Consult your customs broker for guidance on any rulings or specific documentation needed for your shipment.
Terms & reference phrasing
These are common trade terms used for this chapter. Use them as context, not as a substitute for legal wording.
cotton products · HS-4 codes · cotton yarn · woven cotton fabrics · cotton waste · customs classification · textile manufacturing · retail cotton thread · HS-6 classification · cotton composition · national digits · customs broker · shipping cotton · trade compliance · import/export cotton · cotton textiles · cotton grades · cotton shipments
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Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- how to classify cotton products for customs
- understanding HS-4 codes for cotton textiles
- importing cotton yarn and fabrics
- cotton waste shipping classification
- differences between cotton yarn HS codes
- requirements for cotton fabric importation
- national digits for cotton HS codes
- consulting a broker for cotton trade compliance
Examples & common questions
Example products reflect typical trade descriptions. The questions below mirror practical doubts teams raise during filing.
Example products
- Raw cotton bales for textile production
- Cotton sewing thread in spools for garment manufacturing
- Cotton yarn for knitting or weaving, not retail packaged
- Woven cotton fabrics for apparel, under 200 g/m2
- Cotton waste for recycling or manufacturing new products
- Cotton fabrics mixed with synthetic fibers for upholstery
- Retail-ready cotton yarn for craft projects
- Heavy cotton fabrics for workwear or industrial applications
Common classification questions
How do I classify cotton fabrics for import?
Confirm composition, processing stage, and end-use in your documents before mapping to country digits.
What are the differences between HS-4 codes in cotton?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
How to determine the right HS-4 for cotton yarn?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
Are there specific notes for cotton waste classification?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
What is the HS code for cotton sewing thread?
Use it as a chapter cue, then verify the final choice against heading and subheading legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What is the HS code for raw cotton?
- Raw cotton is classified under **5201** for cotton that is not carded or combed.
- How do I classify cotton fabrics for import?
- Cotton fabrics are classified based on their weight and composition, with codes like **5208** for lightweight woven fabrics containing 85% or more cotton.
- What are the differences between HS-4 codes in cotton?
- Each HS-4 code corresponds to specific forms and uses of cotton, such as yarn, fabrics, or waste. Review the product's characteristics to choose correctly.
- What documentation is needed for importing cotton products?
- Documentation may include invoices, packing lists, and specific certificates depending on the product and destination country. Consult your customs broker for details.
- Are there specific notes for cotton waste classification?
- Yes, cotton waste is classified under **5202**. Ensure the product description clearly identifies it as waste material to avoid misclassification.
- How to handle mixed cotton fabrics in trade?
- Mixed cotton fabrics are classified under various codes based on their cotton content and weight, such as **5210** or **5211**. Check the composition carefully.
- What is the HS code for cotton sewing thread?
- Cotton sewing thread is classified under **5204**, whether or not it is put up for retail sale.
All HS-4 headings in chapter 52 (12)
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.
5201
Cotton; not carded or combed
5202
Cotton waste (including yarn waste and garnetted stock)
5203
Cotton, carded or combed
5204
Cotton sewing thread, whether or not put up for retail sale
5205
Cotton yarn (other than sewing thread), containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, not put up for retail sale
5206
Cotton yarn (other than sewing thread), containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, not put up for retail sale
5207
Cotton yarn (other than sewing thread), put up for retail sale
5208
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing not more than 200 g/m2
5209
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing 85% or more by weight of cotton, weighing more than 200g/m2
5210
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing not more than 200 g/m2
5211
Woven fabrics of cotton, containing less than 85% by weight of cotton, mixed mainly or solely with man-made fibres, weighing more than 200g/m2
5212
Other woven fabrics of cotton, n.e.c. in chapter 52
Browse first heading (HS-4 5201)
Opens the lookup in heading browse for the first HS-4 block in this chapter (5201). 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.
How we classify products explains what TradeTools does (and does not) automate.