Human hair extensions are classified under HS code 6704.20 ("wigs, false beards, eyebrows and the like, and other articles of human hair"). Import duty depends on the destination country and your Incoterms — under EXW or FOB the buyer is responsible for duty and clearance, while DDP shifts that to the seller. This guide explains how to classify, estimate duty, and clear a shipment — it is a sourcing reference, not formal customs advice.
The HS code for hair extensions
Goods crossing a border are classified by Harmonized System (HS) code, which determines the duty rate. Human hair extensions sit in:
Most countries extend this 6-digit base to an 8–10 digit national code (e.g. the US uses 6704.20.0000). Always confirm the exact national code with your broker, because the extension *type* (raw bulk hair vs. finished wefts vs. clip-in sets) can occasionally shift classification.
Who pays duty? It's set by your Incoterms
| Incoterm | Who clears & pays duty | Buyer's exposure |
|---|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | Buyer (from factory door) | Highest — buyer handles everything |
| FOB (Free On Board) | Buyer (from port of loading) | Buyer pays freight + duty |
| CIF | Buyer pays duty; seller covers freight+insurance to port | Medium |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | Seller | Lowest — landed price is all-in |
For first orders, DDP gives a predictable landed cost; experienced importers often prefer FOB for control over freight and customs.
Estimating import duty (indicative only)
Duty on 6704.20 varies by market and changes over time. As a *rough orientation* — always verify against the current tariff schedule for your country and any trade-agreement preference:
| Market | Where to confirm |
|---|---|
| United States | USITC HTS schedule (heading 6704) |
| United Kingdom | UK Trade Tariff |
| European Union | TARIC database |
| Canada / Australia / others | National customs tariff lookup |
> Do not budget from a number you read in a blog (including this one). Pull the live rate for your HS code and country, factor in VAT/GST and any anti-dumping notes, and have your broker confirm. Rates and trade measures change.
Documents you'll need at clearance
Practical tips for B2B importers
1. Get the HS code in writing from your supplier on the proforma invoice, and confirm it with your own broker.
2. Clarify Incoterms before paying — a "cheap" FOB price can cost more landed than a DDP quote once duty + freight are added.
3. Ask for a certificate of origin — it can reduce duty if your country has a trade agreement with the origin country.
4. Start with a small trial shipment to test the full customs path before scaling volume.
5. Keep declared value accurate — under-declaring to cut duty is illegal and risks seizure.
FAQ
What is the HS code for human hair extensions?
The 6-digit base is 6704.20; countries add national digits (e.g. US 6704.20.0000). Confirm your exact national code with a broker.
Do I pay duty as the buyer?
Under EXW/FOB/CIF, yes — the buyer clears and pays duty. Under DDP, the seller covers it and you pay an all-in landed price.
Are hair extensions FDA-regulated?
Human hair extensions are not FDA-regulated as a product class; focus on material-safety compliance such as EU REACH and on accurate documentation.
How do I find my exact duty rate?
Look up HS 6704.20 in your country's official tariff (USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC) or ask a customs broker — rates change, so use the current schedule.
This guide is a sourcing reference, not customs or legal advice; confirm classification and duty with a licensed broker. Hopeshair can supply the HS code and a certificate of origin on your commercial documents — contact us on WhatsApp.