USDA APHIS applies quarantine requirements to bird feathers and skins to prevent introduction of avian diseases. The US Fish and Wildlife Service enforces the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and CITES for protected species. Importers must confirm that the species involved is not protected and that the feathers have been properly cleaned and treated to meet APHIS standards.

Cleaned or treated down and feathers intended for stuffing — the primary fill material in jackets, pillows, and bedding — fall under 050510. Bird skins with feathers attached, loose decorative feathers, feather meal, and feather waste go to 050590. The intended end use and the degree of processing both inform the correct subheading choice.