salted raw sheepskin
CN β USAI Analysis
π Salted Raw Sheepskin (Raw Hides & Skins)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Sure About "Salted Sheepskin"?
Salted raw sheepskin is a primary raw material for the leather industry, specifically used for producing shearling, sheepskin jackets, and upholstery. In international trade, its classification depends heavily on its state (wet salted vs. dry), preservation method, and intended use.
Key Distinction: * Raw Sheepskin (Wet-Salted): Freshly slaughtered sheepskin preserved with salt to prevent decay. This is the most common form imported for tanning. * Dried Sheepskin: Often has different tariff implications depending on the region, but "Salted" specifically refers to the wet-salted preservation method. * Sheared vs. Non-Sheared: Whether the wool is still attached (Shearling) or removed. For HS Code purposes, "Raw" usually implies the wool is intact unless specified as "sheared."
β οΈ Critical Differentiator:
- If it is salted for preservation β It is considered a "Raw Skin" (Chapter 41).
- If it is already tanned or further processed β It falls under Chapter 41 (Leather) or Chapter 61/62 (Apparel), NOT Chapter 41.
- Do not confuse with "Sheepskin Leather" (tanned), which has a completely different HS code and tax rate.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | State |
|---|---|---|---|
4101.21.00 |
Sheepskins, fresh (wet-salted) | Raw material for tanning; wool attached; weight β€ 0.5 kg per skin | β Wet-Salted |
4101.29.00 |
Other sheepskins, fresh (wet-salted) | Raw material for tanning; wool attached; weight > 0.5 kg per skin | β Wet-Salted |
4101.90.00 |
Other skins, fresh | Includes other livestock skins (cattle, etc.) | β Not Sheep |
4104.11.00 |
Sheepskins, tanned or crusted | Tanned sheepskin (Leather), not raw | β Tanned |
4106.22.00 |
Sheepskins, dressed | Dressed/curried sheepskins (further processed) | β Processed |
π Key Reminder:
- Chapter 41 applies to raw hides and skins (including salted).
- Once tanned, the HS Code changes to4104.
- Weight is critical:4101.21.00is for lighter skins (β€0.5kg),4101.29.00for heavier ones. Most commercial sheepskins fall into4101.29.00.
- Labeling: Must clearly state "Salted Raw Sheepskin" on invoices. Do not use "Leather" or "Finished Product."
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policies)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 4101.29.00 ββ Sheepskins, Fresh (Wet-Salted), Weight > 0.5 kg
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 2.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge | +10% (Section 301 Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% (For Chinese/HK products, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 22.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:4101.29.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- "Base Rate 2.5%" is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for raw skins.
- "USITC 10%" is the additional duty under Section 301 for certain animal products.
- "IEEPA 10%" is the new emergency surcharge on Chinese goods.
- Total 22.5% is significant for raw materials. Must be factored into landed cost.
π― 2. 4101.21.00 ββ Sheepskins, Fresh (Wet-Salted), Weight β€ 0.5 kg
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 2.5% |
| USITC Surcharge | +10% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 22.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 22.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:4101.21.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Same tariff rate as heavier skins.
- Ensure accurate weight declaration to avoid misclassification penalties.
π οΈ IV. Clearance Practical Advice (Practical Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (All are Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must explicitly state: "Salted Raw Sheepskin," HS Code, Weight, Origin |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail gross/net weight, number of skins per carton |
| β Bill of Lading/Air Waybill | βοΈ | Standard transport document |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Required to verify origin for IEEPA/Section 301 applicability |
| β Phytosanitary Certificate | βοΈ | Critical: USDA APHIS requires proof of disease-free status for animal products |
| β Salt Content Declaration | βοΈ | Some customs require confirmation that salt content is sufficient to prevent decay |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Raw Salted, Chapter 41; Tanned is Different; Phytosanitary is Key!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Wet-Salted Sheepskin | 4101.29.00 |
Misclassified as "Leather" β 0% Base (but wrong) β Penalty + Back Duty |
| Tanned Sheepskin | 4104.11.00 |
Misclassified as "Raw" β 22.5% β Overpaid Tax |
| Unsalted Fresh Skin | Not Allowed for Import without special permit | Attempting to import fresh, unsalted skin β Rejection/Destruction |
| Sheepskin Gloves | 4203.40 |
Misclassified as "Raw Skin" β 22.5% vs. ~4% for gloves |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Raw Materials | Provide supplierβs tanning contract. Ensure "Raw" status is clear. |
| Mixed Shipments (Raw + Tanned) | Separate Declaration. Do not mix HS Codes in one line item. |
| Wool Attached vs. Removed | "Sheepskin" implies wool is attached. If wool is removed, it may be "Sheepskin Leather" or "Sheared Skin," changing the HS Code. |
| Diseased Skins | Absolute Prohibition. Any sign of disease leads to immediate refusal. |
π V. Global Major Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 4101.29.00 |
22.5% (China Origin) | USDA APHIS + Phytosanitary | High compliance needed for animal products |
| π¨π³ China | 4101.29.00 |
0% (Import Duty) + 13% VAT | None Specific | Low import barrier for raw materials |
| πͺπΊ EU | 4101.29.00 |
2.5% (If from China) | REACH + Health Certificate | Strict animal by-product regulations |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 4101.29.00 |
5% | Biosecurity Permit | Very strict quarantine |
| π―π΅ Japan | 4101.29.00 |
2.2% | Health Certificate | Moderate compliance |
π Conclusion:
- USA has the highest effective tariff (22.5%) due to surcharges.
- China is a major importer of raw sheepskins with 0% import duty, making it a hub for re-export or domestic tanning.
- EU and Japan have moderate tariffs but strict health/safety certifications.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Salted Sheepskin" as "Sheepskin Leather" (4104)
π Consequence: Undervaluation + Misclassification β Penalty + Back Tax + Audit
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Phytosanitary Certificate
π Consequence: Cargo held at port β Demurrage Costs + Possible Destruction
β Mistake 3: Mixing "Wet-Salted" and "Dry-Salted" in one HS Line
π Consequence: Customs may reject or reclassify β Delays
β Mistake 4: Not declaring "Raw" status clearly
π Consequence: Customs assumes "Finished Product" β Higher Duty Risk
β Correct Practice:
"Salted Raw Sheepskin, Wet-Salted, Weight 0.6kg/skin, Wool Attached, Origin: China, HS Code: 4101.29.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time & Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Salted Raw = Chapter 41, Tanned = Chapter 41 (Different Code), Phytosanitary is King!"
πΉ "22.5% Total Duty for US Imports, Zero Duty for China Imports."
π Tips:
If your sheepskins are originating from Australia, New Zealand, or South America, check for Free Trade Agreement (FTA) benefits or lower base tariffs, but US surcharges still apply for Chinese-origin goods re-exported.
Recommendation:
π Contact USDA APHIS for phytosanitary requirements + Hire a Licensed Customs Broker to verify HS Code classification.
π Ensure your supplier provides accurate weight and salt-content details to avoid clearance delays.
π£ Act Now:
π Pre-Apply for Phytosanitary Certificate
π Verify HS Code with Customs Broker
π Smooth Clearance, Efficient Import, Cost Control!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Saved is Pure Profit!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.