Eco-friendly, handcrafted plant fibre baskets made from jute, bamboo, or coir are in high demand globally — especially in the U.S. market. If you're an Indian exporter looking to ship these sustainable decor items, here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to staying compliant and competitive.

1. Identify the Correct HS Code

Understanding your product's classification is the foundation of customs compliance.

• HS Code: 4602.19 – Baskets of vegetable plaiting materials (excluding bamboo/rattan)
  
  

• For bamboo/rattan baskets, use 4602.11 or 4602.12
  
  

This code affects your duty rates, documentation, and eligibility for trade programs.

2. Prepare Mandatory Export Documents (India)

Before shipment, make sure you have these documents ready:

• Commercial Invoice
  
  

• Packing List
  
  

• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
  
  

• Shipping Bill (via ICEGATE)
  
  

• Certificate of Origin
  
  

• EPCH (Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts) Registration
  
  

3. Understand the Import Requirements (USA)

The U.S. importer or their customs broker will file:

• Commercial Invoice
  
  

• Packing List
  
  

• CBP Entry Forms (3461 & 7501)
  
  

• Certificate of Origin (optional but useful for tariff claims)
  
  

4. Ensure Correct Labeling

The U.S. mandates that imported products are clearly labeled:

• “Made in India” (Country of Origin)
  
  

• Material disclosure (e.g., “100% Jute”)
  
  

Mislabeling can result in fines or customs delays.

5. Use Certified Packaging

Avoid using untreated wood in pallets or crates.

• If wood is used: It must be ISPM-15 compliant (heat-treated or fumigated)
  
  

• Or use alternatives like cardboard or plastic for hassle-free clearance
  
  

6. Know the Duty Rates

While the U.S. applies Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates, they are relatively low:

• Typical duty on plant fibre baskets: 0–2.9%
  
  

India's GSP status is currently suspended, so no preferential tariff applies.

7. Check Safety Regulations

Although these baskets aren't food or pharma products:

• If used by children or marketed for kids, CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) rules may apply.
  
  

• Avoid sharp components or flammable finishes.
  
  

8. Register with Export Promotion Council

For handicraft products, registration with EPCH gives you:

• Export support
  
  

• Trade fair access
  
  

• Certification help
  
  

• Duty drawback and export benefits
  
  

9. Export Without GST (if eligible)

You can ship goods without paying IGST by:

• Applying for a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) under GST
  
  

• Filing returns under zero-rated exports
  
  

This improves cash flow and eases refunds.

10. Stay Up to Date on Trade Policy

There are no embargoes or bans on these items, but:

• Keep an eye on bilateral trade negotiations
  
  

• Watch for changes in U.S. import duty structures
  
  

Using a customs consultant or freight forwarder with U.S. experience is highly recommended.

✅ Final Tip:

Focus on quality, eco-labeling, and storytelling — U.S. consumers value sustainability and authenticity. Back your products with great documentation and consistent labeling to make customs clearance smooth and stress-free.