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HS-4 · Heading

5203Cotton, carded or combed

Chapter 52: Cotton

Plain-language overview

Use HS-4 5203 when importing cotton that has been carded or combed, such as cotton batting or processed cotton for textiles. This classification is crucial for ensuring compliance with customs regulations and determining applicable duties.

When deciding between HS-6 lines, note that 520300 specifically covers cotton that has undergone carding or combing processes. If your product is raw cotton or in a different processing stage, it will fall under a different heading.

Ensure that your cotton product is indeed carded or combed, as this affects its classification. For example, if you have cotton yarn or fabric, those would not qualify under this heading and would require a different HS code.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.

HS-4 5203 · cotton carded or combed · import cotton products · HS-6 520300 · cotton classification · customs duties on cotton · carded cotton examples · combed cotton uses · textile processing cotton · cotton import regulations

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Cotton batting for quilts and insulation
  • Carded cotton used in medical supplies
  • Combed cotton fibers for textile manufacturing
  • Cotton used in stuffing for pillows and cushions
  • Processed cotton for use in apparel production

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS-4 5203 used for?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify carded cotton?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

What are the duties for HS-6 520300?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Is combed cotton different from carded cotton?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What products fall under HS-4 5203?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to determine the correct HS code for cotton?

Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.

Related topics

Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.

importing carded cotton products

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

differences between carded and combed cotton

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

how to classify cotton for import

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

customs regulations for cotton imports

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

examples of cotton carded or combed products

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

understanding HS-4 5203 classification

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

cotton processing stages and HS codes

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

requirements for importing combed cotton

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

Questions & answers

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

What types of products are classified under HS-4 5203?
HS-4 5203 includes products like cotton batting, carded cotton for medical supplies, and combed cotton fibers used in textiles.
How can I confirm if my cotton product is carded or combed?
Check the processing stage of your cotton. If it has been mechanically separated and aligned, it is likely carded or combed.
What are the potential duties for importing cotton under HS-6 520300?
Duties can vary based on the country of origin and trade agreements. Consult your customs broker for specific rates.
Can I use HS-4 5203 for raw cotton?
No, HS-4 5203 is specifically for cotton that has been carded or combed. Raw cotton falls under a different classification.
What should I do if I'm unsure about my cotton classification?
Contact a customs broker or trade specialist for assistance in determining the correct HS code for your product.

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