The HS code for ceramic tiles is in heading 6907, and the subheading depends on water absorption. Porcelain slabs usually fall in the same heading, and roofing tiles are in heading 6905. Heading 6908 covers glazed tiles in older and some national schedules, so check which version your customs office uses.
The first six digits are common worldwide. Countries add their own digits after that, so always confirm the full code with your customs broker.
How are tiles split inside 6907?
Under the current Harmonized System, heading 6907 covers unglazed and glazed ceramic flags, paving, hearth and wall tiles, and mosaic cubes. The subheadings for flags and tiles turn on water absorption, the same property that defines the tile body:
- 6907.21 covers tiles with water absorption of 0.5% or less.
- 6907.22 covers tiles above 0.5% and up to 10%.
- 6907.23 covers tiles above 10%.
- 6907.30 covers mosaic cubes and similar articles, and 6907.40 covers finishing ceramics.
Most vitrified floor tiles from Morbi fall at 0.5% or less, so they sit in the first group. The wording above reflects the 2022 edition of the HS. Older schedules used different subheadings, and 6908 held glazed tiles, so check the edition your destination applies. See also the guide to the HS code for vitrified tiles.
What about porcelain slabs?
A porcelain slab is a large porcelain tile, so classification normally follows the same water absorption test. Some national schedules, however, handle large formats, worktops or slabs cut to shape differently. A slab sold as a finished countertop can raise a different question again.
Ask your broker to confirm the code for the exact product and size, not just the product name.
What is the HS code for roofing tiles?
Ceramic roofing tiles are classified in heading 6905, with a subheading for roofing tiles and another for chimney pots, cowls and other ceramic building items. Roofing tiles are fired clay products, so they do not follow the water absorption split used for floor and wall tiles.
Why does a wrong code cause problems?
The code decides duty, whether anti-dumping measures apply, and which certificates are checked at the border. A tile entered under the wrong subheading can lead to a duty bill, a hold at the port or a penalty for a false declaration.
The code must also match across the invoice, packing list, certificate of origin and bill of lading. A mismatch is one of the most common reasons for clearance delays. Read the documents needed for tile exports from India for the full set.
How should you agree the code with the factory?
Ask the factory to state the water absorption group and tile type on the proforma invoice. Then ask your broker which full code applies at your border. Agree the code before shipment, not after the container has arrived.
Keep the lab report with the order. If customs challenge the classification, a test report showing the absorption value is your evidence.
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