Elastic HSN Code

Understanding Elastic HSN Codes

The term “elastic” encompasses a wide range of materials, from textile components to specialized machinery parts. Just like the material itself, the Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code for “elastic” can stretch across various chapters and headings, depending on the specific product and its application. This classification is crucial for accurate GST (Goods and Services Tax) application in India, ensuring businesses and consumers comply with tax regulations.

The HSN system categorizes products globally, making international trade and taxation consistent. When dealing with elastic materials, it’s essential to pinpoint the exact nature of the product to assign the correct HSN code and, consequently, the right GST rate.

Unraveling Elastic HSN Classifications

Elasticity is a property found in many different goods. Here’s a breakdown of how various “elastic” items are classified:

• Textile Elastic: This is perhaps the most common association with the word “elastic.”
  • Narrow woven fabrics containing 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread are typically found under HSN Chapter 58, with codes like 58062000 (other woven fabrics) or 58063200 (of man-made fibres). These generally attract a 5% GST rate.
  • Knitted or crocheted fabrics of a width not exceeding 30 cm, containing 5% or more of elastomeric yarn or rubber thread, fall under HSN Chapter 60, such as 6002. These also often have a 5% GST rate.
  • Rubber thread and cord, textile covered, or textile yarn impregnated, coated, or sheathed with rubber or plastics are classified under HSN 56041000, usually attracting a 12% GST.
  • Simple rubber bands are often found under HSN 40169920, with a 5% GST rate.
  • Elastic bandages for medical purposes can fall under HSN 30059040 or similar codes, with a 12% GST.
• Elastic in Machinery and Testing Equipment: The term “elasticity” also refers to a mechanical property of materials.
  • Machines and appliances for testing the hardness, strength, compressibility, elasticity, or other mechanical properties of materials (e.g., metals, wood, textiles, paper, plastics) are covered under HSN Chapter 90.
    • Specific codes include 90241000 for machines testing metals, 90248010 for testing textiles, paper, and paperboard, and 90248099 for other testing machines.
    • Parts and accessories for these testing machines fall under 90249000.
  • These machines and their parts typically attract an 18% GST rate.
• Elastic in Wood Products: Certain specialized wood products also incorporate “elastic” properties.
  • Elastic laminated plywood is classified under HSN Chapter 44, with codes like 44122910 (other, with at least one outer ply of non-coniferous wood) and 44129210 (other, with at least one ply of tropical wood).
  • These plywood types generally have an 18% GST rate.

Navigating the Nuances of Elastic HSN

The diverse applications of “elastic” mean that context is paramount when determining the correct HSN code. A narrow elastic band used in clothing will have a different HSN and GST rate than a machine testing a material’s elasticity or a specialized plywood. Always verify the specific characteristics and primary use of the elastic product to ensure accurate classification and GST compliance.