HTS US: 0509.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading covers natural sponges obtained from animals, primarily marine organisms (Porifera), and used in various applications such as cleaning, cosmetic, and industrial purposes. These sponges are not chemically treated or manufactured but harvested in their natural state.
- Natural Sponges: Soft, porous, and absorbent aquatic animals commonly used for bathing or cleaning.
- Animal Origin: Derived from marine sponges, distinguished from synthetic or artificial sponges.
- Unprocessed or minimally processed: May be cleaned or trimmed but not chemically altered or manufactured.
Code Hierarchy
- Section I:
- Live Animals; Animal Products (Chapters 01-05)
- Chapter 05: Products of Animal Origin, not elsewhere specified or included
- Heading 0509: Natural sponges of animal origin.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
0509.XX.XXXX– The final digits specify the exact type, processing state, or size classification.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 0509 is divided into specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes based on sponge quality, size, and processing.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0509.00 | Natural sponges of animal origin | General heading for natural sponges, not further specified. |
0509.00.0000 |
Natural sponges, unworked or simply prepared (e.g., cleaned, dried) | |
| 0509.00.10 | Natural sponges, suitable for use as cosmetic sponges | High-quality sponges, soft texture, popular for cosmetic use. |
0509.00.1010 |
Natural cosmetic sponges, unworked | |
0509.00.1090 |
Other cosmetic natural sponges, worked or processed | |
| 0509.00.20 | Natural sponges for industrial or household cleaning | Sponges typically used for cleaning in households or industrial settings. |
0509.00.2010 |
Unworked cleaning sponges | |
0509.00.2090 |
Processed or trimmed cleaning sponges | |
| 0509.00.30 | Other natural sponges | Includes sponges used for other purposes such as art, crafts, or scientific uses. |
0509.00.3000 |
Miscellaneous natural sponges |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Synthetic or artificial sponges
- made from plastics or cellulose are classified under Chapter 39 (e.g., HTS 3924.90).
- Sponges combined with other materials or manufactured products such as sponge rubber fall under different headings.
- Animal hair or bristles used for brushes are classified separately in Chapter 05 (e.g., 0505).
- Other cleaning materials such as steel wool or abrasive pads fall outside this heading.
Notes
- USDA/APHIS Regulations:
- Importation of natural sponges may be subject to inspection for pests or contamination.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates for natural sponges vary depending on quality, use, and processing. Consult the current USHTS for exact duties.
- Country of Origin Labeling (COOL): Accurate country-of-origin labeling is required for natural sponges.
- Environmental Regulations: Some natural sponges may be subject to sustainability or harvesting regulations depending on their origin.
Declaration Example
Product:
A shipment of cleaned natural cosmetic sponges from the Mediterranean.
US HTS Code:
0509.00.1010(Natural cosmetic sponges, unworked)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg) or number of pieces
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Often duty-free or low tariff)
Additional Requirements: USDA/APHIS inspection and certification may be required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 0505:
- Animal hair used for brushes and paintbrushes.
- HTS 3924.90: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914 (including synthetic sponges).
- HTS 5603: Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated, other than those of heading 5602 (includes some cleaning materials).
