56022900
WADDING, FELT AND NONWOVENS; SPECIAL YARNS; TWINE, CORDAGE, ROPES AND CABLES AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Felt, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated
Of other textile materials
Classification scope and felt properties
CN code 560229 covers felt made from textile materials other than wool, fine animal hair, or needle-punched synthetic fibres (covered by codes 560210 and 560221). This may include felt made from artificial fibres, blends of different fibre types, or specialty materials. These felts are used in filtration, insulation, acoustics, and in the production of gaskets and technical linings. For customs classification, it is essential to determine the dominant fibre type and manufacturing technology, as classic felt is produced by matting rather than needle-punching. Importers should include in the customs documentation a technical specification describing the production process and raw material composition.
EU regulations and import requirements
Felts covered by CN code 560229 are subject to the Textile Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 regarding fibre composition labelling. REACH imposes restrictions on chemical substances in textile articles, including azo dyes, formaldehyde, and heavy metals. Felts used as construction elements may be subject to the CPR requiring CE marking. For felts used in food production environments, food contact requirements under Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 are relevant. Importers should also consider the new requirements of the GPSR (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety, applicable from December 2024.
Trade and customs logistics
Importing felt under CN code 560229 requires precise specification of fibre composition and production method in the customs declaration. For multi-component blends, the predominant fibre by weight determines classification, and documentation should indicate the percentage share of each component. Technical felts may require additional documentation confirming performance properties such as temperature resistance, filtration, or acoustic properties. Transport of felt rolls requires appropriate protection against moisture and deformation. Preferential duty rates may be available under free trade agreements, and the GSP system may offer reduced rates for imports from developing countries.
Felt of other textile materials CN 5602 29
CN code 5602 29 covers felt of textile materials other than wool – e.g. synthetic, artificial or blended fibres. Synthetic felts are cheaper than wool felts and widely used in automotive, construction and handicraft industries. When importing, the fibre composition must be determined as it decides the tariff subheading (wool – CN 5602 21, other – CN 5602 29).
Frequently asked questions
How to distinguish classic felt from needleloom felt in customs classification?
Classic felt (codes 560221 and 560229) is produced by matting fibres under the influence of heat, moisture, and mechanical pressure, mainly from wool. Needleloom felt (code 560210) is manufactured by mechanically interlocking fibres using barbed needles. The production technology is the key classification criterion and must be documented in the technical specification.
Does technical felt for filtration purposes have additional requirements?
Filter felt as an industrial product must meet technical standards appropriate to the specific application. If used in drinking water treatment systems, it is subject to requirements for materials in contact with water. For food industry applications, the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 may apply.
Are felts made from artificial fibres such as viscose classified under code 560229?
Yes, provided the felt is produced by the matting method rather than needle-punching. Felts made from artificial fibres such as viscose or lyocell that are not classified under code 560210 or 560221 may be classified under code 560229. It is essential to confirm both the raw material composition and the production method.
What fibres does felt classified under CN 5602 29 cover?
CN 5602 29 covers felts of fibres other than wool and animal hair – e.g. polyester, polypropylene, viscose or blends. The dominant fibre must be established. Felts with predominant wool fall under CN 5602 21.
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