Plastic vs Abrasive Sponges
- Arne Mielken
- May 5
- 4 min read
Two cleaning sponges, two different customs classifications—why? Discover how plastic and abrasive materials change everything.
In the world of Customs compliance, a sponge is not just a sponge. Its classification under import regulations in the EU, UK, or USA can influence duties, admissibility, and your risk rating. As a Customs Consultant, I often encounter common household items that are deceptively complex—and the humble sponge is a brilliant example.
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Key Questions Covered in This Blog
Why are visually similar sponges classified differently under Customs rules?
What makes one HS Code for sponges different from the other ?
How do material composition and function influence customs classification?
What are the risks of misclassification?
What steps should importers take to stay compliant?
"The material tells the story, but the function seals the fate. Classification is never about appearance alone—it's about essence."Arne Mielken, Managing Director, Customs Manager
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Why are visually similar sponges classified differently under Customs rules?
It's a common misconception: if two items look the same and serve similar purposes, they must share the same HS Code. Not so. Customs classification isn’t about appearance—it's about the product’s essential character. A foamed polyurethane sponge used for gentle washing might look like its abrasive cousin, but in the world of Customs, their identities are entirely different.
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