Classification of goods by composition

Jan. 24, 2026 315 views

The difference between plastics and rubber, as well as the presence of additives can significantly affect the code HS .

In international trade, logistics and industrial production, the classification of goods plays a key role. One of the most basic and at the same time the most sensitive types of classification - classification of goods by composition. From the correct definition of material, fibrous or chemical composition of products directly depend on customs duties, certification requirements, tax burden and legality of import or export of goods.

Errors at this stage can lead not only to additional charges and fines, but also to a delay in the cargo or a complete refusal to import. That is why the classification by composition is the basis for working with the codes of HS, OKPD2 and other accounting systems.

What is the classification of goods by composition

Classification of goods by composition - This is the division of products into groups depending on the materials from which it is made, either by chemical, fibrous or structural composition.

This approach is used:

in customs (TN FEA EAEU),
certification and declaration of conformity,
in tax and statistical accounting,
in the management of assortment and warehouse logistics.

It is based on the principle that the material basis of the goods determines its legal and economic regime.

The main types of classification by composition

1. Classification by material of manufacture

This is the most common and universal approach.

Metals

This group includes:

raw metals,
ores and concentrates,
metal foil, sheets, powders,
semi-finished products and finished products: bolts, nails, profiles, furniture, structural elements.

The classification takes into account:

type of metal (black, colored, precious),
degree of processing,
purpose of the product.

Textiles and leather

Includes:

I yarn and fiber,
tissue
sewing and knitting products,
products made of natural and artificial leather.

For textiles, it is important:

type of fiber (cotton, polyester, wool, etc.),
the percentage of fibers,
method of production (tissue, knitwear, nonwoven materials).

Plastics

These include:

primary plastics,
plastic products,
combined products with a plastic base.

The difference between plastics and rubber, as well as the presence of additives can significantly affect the code HS.

Glass.

sheet glass,
Tara,
technical and optical glass,
Domestic and industrial products.

Wood and wood materials

raw wood,
plywood, chipboard, MDF,
woodwork.

2. Classification by chemical and fibrous composition

This level is used for specific and technically complex products, where one indication of the material is not enough.

Example: Hygiene products

For diapers, pads and similar products, the following are critically important:

chemical composition of the absorbent layers,
type of fiber,
the presence of polymeric components.

Even a small change in composition can lead to a change in the FEA code and certification requirements.

Why you need classification by composition

Customs clearance and HS

In the HS system:

different materials are subject to different customs duties,
special restrictions, licenses or prohibitions may apply,
The need for additional permits depends on the composition.

Incorrectly stated material - One of the most common reasons:

adjustment of customs value,
reclassification of goods,
Additional charges and fines.

Certification and registration

The composition of the goods determines:

the need for a declaration or certificate of conformity,
health and hygiene requirements,
environmental and technical regulations.

For example, the chemical composition may require:

state registration of products,
Confirmation of safety for humans,
additional tests.

Assortment management and business processes

For companies, the classification by composition allows:

Formation of product groups with homogeneous characteristics,
optimize storage,
Properly adjust the pricing,
Manage the risks of import and export.

Practical risks of classification errors

Errors in composition can lead to:

incorrect code of HS,
refusal to release the goods,
fines and additional charges,
Reputational risks when working with partners.

Therefore, for complex goods often attract:

customs representatives,
classification experts,
Laboratory testing of the composition.

Classification of goods by composition - This is not a formality, but a key element of foreign economic activity management. It links production, logistics, customs, certification and finance into a single system.

Understanding the material basis of the goods allows:

minimize the risks,
accurately predict costs,
Establish sustainable and legal supply chains.

In the conditions of complex regulation, it is the correct classification by composition that becomes a point of support for a stable business in foreign trade.