Find HS Code and trade information for cork shoulder bag

Cork Shoulder Bag

A cork shoulder bag is a bag constructed primarily from cork fabric, typically used for carrying personal items on the shoulder.

Material:

The defining characteristic is the use of cork, harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber). This material is renewable, as the bark regrows, and is considered an environmentally sustainable resource. Cork fabric is typically made by shaving thin layers from the bark, processing it into sheets, and often backing it with a textile support like cotton for added durability. Variations in cork quality affect the texture and appearance of the bag, ranging from fine-grained to more textured finishes.

Purpose:

Cork shoulder bags serve the general purpose of transporting everyday items. However, they are often chosen for their unique aesthetic qualities, lightweight nature, and eco-friendly profile. They are frequently marketed as alternatives to leather bags.

Function:

• Carrying: The primary function is to hold and carry personal belongings such as wallets, phones, keys, cosmetics, books, and other small items.
• Durability: Cork is naturally water-resistant, durable, and resistant to tearing, making it suitable for everyday use.
• Lightweight: Cork is a relatively lightweight material, contributing to the bag's overall comfort.
• Protection: Offers some protection to contents due to its cushioning properties.

Usage Scenarios:

• Everyday Carry: Suitable for daily use, commuting, shopping, and casual outings.
• Travel: Lightweight and relatively compact, making it a suitable travel companion.
• Fashion Accessory: Increasingly popular as a statement piece due to its unique texture and eco-conscious appeal.
• Eco-conscious Consumers: Favored by individuals seeking sustainable and ethical products.

Common Types:

• Crossbody Bags: Featuring a long strap worn across the body for hands-free carrying.
• Tote Bags: Larger, open-top bags with two handles.
• Messenger Bags: Typically rectangular with a flap closure and a long strap.
• Satchels: Structured bags with a top handle and often a shoulder strap.
• Hobo Bags: Crescent-shaped, slouchy bags.
• Bucket Bags: Cylindrical or tapered bags with a drawstring closure.

Variations also exist based on the design, size, closures (zippers, magnetic snaps, buckles), and additional features like interior pockets and adjustable straps. Some bags combine cork with other materials like cotton, linen, or recycled fabrics.

The declared goods are cork shoulder bags. These are bags designed to be carried over the shoulder, constructed from cork material.

The following HS codes are relevant based on the provided information:

• 4601999000: This HS code covers “Plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, whether or not assembled into strips; plaiting materials, plaits and similar products of plaiting materials, bound together in parallel strands or woven, in sheet form, whether or not being finished articles (for example, mats, matting, screens): Other: Other: Other”. This could apply if the cork is processed into a plaiting material used to make the bag, or if the bag is constructed from sheets of cork material. The base tariff is 3.3%, with an additional 25.0% surcharge, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 58.3%.

• 4602900000: This HS code covers “Basketwork, wickerwork and other articles, made directly to shape from plaiting materials or made up from articles of heading 4601; articles of loofah: Other”. If the cork shoulder bag is constructed directly from plaiting materials (like woven cork strips) or is made up from articles of heading 4601, this code may be applicable. The base tariff is 3.5%, with an additional 25.0% surcharge, increasing to 30% after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 58.5%.

It is important to determine the manufacturing process of the bag to accurately classify it under either 4601999000 or 4602900000. If the bag is made from woven cork, 4602900000 is more likely. If it's made from sheets of cork, 4601999000 is more likely.