Importing handmade baskets: HS codes, labels and documents

By the Cultured Crafts team · 12 October 2026

Importing handmade baskets is straightforward once you know the few points where plant-based products differ from ordinary goods. This checklist covers what to sort out before your shipment leaves. Rules change, so always confirm the details with your customs broker.

1. Classify the goods (HS code)

Baskets made directly to shape from plaiting materials fall under HS heading 4602 (“basketwork, wickerwork and other articles, made directly to shape from plaiting materials”). The six-digit subheading depends on the material: bamboo (4602.11), rattan (4602.12), and other vegetable materials such as grass and palm leaf (typically 4602.19). Each country adds further digits for its national tariff, and that sets the duty rate.

2. Country of origin and duty preferences

The country where the baskets are made is their origin. Many importing countries offer reduced or zero duty on goods from developing countries, for example the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). To claim a preference you need the right proof of origin from the exporter, so ask for it before shipping, not after.

3. Labelling

• Country of origin: many countries, including the US, require imported goods to be marked with their origin in a way that reaches the final customer. A sewn-on or tied label (“Handmade in …”) works well for baskets.
• Product identification: in the EU (under GPSR) and the UK, consumer products need traceability. That means a type or batch reference and the manufacturer’s and importer’s details.
• Honest descriptions: if designs are inspired by an Indigenous tradition, say “inspired by”. In the US the Indian Arts and Crafts Act makes it illegal to falsely suggest goods are Native American-made.

4. Plant-material rules

Because baskets are made of plant fibre, some countries check them for pests and contamination:

• Australia and New Zealand have strict biosecurity checks. Goods must be clean, may be inspected on arrival and may require approved treatment with a certificate. See our Australia & NZ guide.
• The United States may require a Lacey Act declaration for some plant products, depending on the tariff code. Your broker will ask for the plant species and origin.
• The EU and UK mainly require goods to be clean and free of soil and pests. Ask your broker whether a plant-health certificate applies to your specific product.

5. Choose your Incoterm

Incoterms define who pays for and handles each leg of the journey. For first-time importers, DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is the simplest: the supplier delivers to your door with duties and clearance paid, and you get one known landed cost. Experienced importers with their own freight forwarder often choose FOB and control the main freight themselves. See the full comparison on our shipping & export page.

6. Documents to expect from your supplier

• Proforma invoice (before payment) and commercial invoice (at shipment)
• Packing list with carton contents, weights and dimensions
• Certificate of origin, plus a preferential origin statement where a scheme applies
• Phytosanitary or treatment certificate where your country requires one
• Air waybill or bill of lading, or a courier tracking number

We include all of these as standard. Ask for a DDP quote to see the full landed cost for your country.