Arm Protector
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3926209010 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6216009000 | 21.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6216008000 | 21.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6116999560 | 13.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6116939400 | 28.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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π‘οΈ Arm Protector (Cut-Resistant Sleeves/Arm Guards)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Arm Protectors"?
Arm Protectors are critical personal protective equipment (PPE) used in industrial manufacturing, construction, and food processing to prevent cuts, abrasions, and injuries. In international trade, their classification depends heavily on their material composition and structural form.
They are broadly divided into two categories based on HS Code logic:
- Textile-Based (Knitted/Woven): Made from high-strength synthetic fibers (e.g., HPPE, Aramid) or blended fabrics. Classified under Chapter 61 or 62.
- Plastic/Rubber-Based: Made from synthetic materials, coated fabrics, or plastic layers. Classified under Chapter 39.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is primarily textile/knitted with protective coating or fiber reinforcement β HS Codes 61xx/62xx.
- If the product is primarily plastic/rubber or a hard plastic sleeve β HS Code 3926.20.90.10.
- Crucial Note: The presence of "cut-resistant" properties does not automatically create a new HS code; it must fit into existing textile or plastic categories.
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Primary Material |
|---|---|---|---|
3926.20.90.10 |
Other articles of plastic, not elsewhere specified | Plastic-coated sleeves, hard plastic guards, synthetic fiber articles that fall under "other plastic articles" due to dominant plastic material | Plastic / Synthetic Coating |
6216.00.90.00 |
Gloves, mittens and mitts, other, other | Cut-resistant arm protectors classified as protective gear, functionally similar to gloves/mitts | High-Strength Fiber / Fabric |
6216.00.80.00 |
Gloves, mittens and mitts, other, of textile materials | Arm protectors falling under the residual category for textile protective gear, not conflicting with wool/fine animal hair | Textile Materials (Non-Wool) |
6116.99.95.60 |
Gloves, mittens and mitts, other, other | Knitted or crocheted arm protectors made of high-strength synthetic fibers, categorized under other textile materials | High-Strength Synthetic Fiber (Knitted) |
6116.93.94.00 |
Gloves, mittens and mitts, knitted or crocheted, impregnated, coated, covered or laminated with plastics, rubber or textile materials | Protective arm sleeves that are knitted/crocheted but coated/laminated for cut resistance | Knitted Fabric + Plastic/Rubber Coating |
π Key Reminder:
-6116.99.95.60and6216.00.90.00are often the most competitive options for standard textile-based cut-resistant sleeves.
-3926.20.90.10is typically used for products where the plastic component is structurally dominant or defined as a "plastic article" rather than a textile good.
- Misclassification between Textile (Ch. 61/62) and Plastic (Ch. 39) can lead to significant duty discrepancies (e.g., 13.8% vs. 40.0%).
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: 2025 November 10 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3926.20.90.10 ββ Plastic Articles (Plastic-Coated/Dominated)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax (Section 122/301 related) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (High tariff threshold usually excludes de minimis benefits for these categories) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 5.0% β Surtax: 25.0% β IEEPA: 10.0% |
π Explanation:
- This classification carries the highest total duty (40%).
- It applies if the product is deemed primarily a "plastic article" rather than a textile item.
- Risk: High cost impact. Ensure material composition documentation supports textile classification if possible.
π― 2. 6216.00.90.00 ββ Protective Gear (Textile, General)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.8% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 21.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 21.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check Specifics (Generally subject to full duty, but lower base rate helps) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 3.8% β Surtax: 7.5% β IEEPA: 10.0% |
π Explanation:
- Classified as protective gear similar to gloves/mitts.
- The surtax is lower (7.5%) compared to some other textile categories, but still significant due to the 10% IEEPA add-on.
- Suitable for high-strength fiber sleeves where the "protective" function is primary.
π― 3. 6216.00.80.00 ββ Textile Protective Gear (Residual)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.5% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 21.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 21.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β οΈ Check Specifics |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 3.5% β Surtax: 7.5% β IEEPA: 10.0% |
π Explanation:
- This is the most cost-effective textile-based option in the provided data.
- It applies to arm protectors made of textile materials that do not conflict with wool/fine animal hair (i.e., synthetic or cotton blends).
- Recommendation: If your product is textile-based, aim for this or6116.99.95.60.
π― 4. 6116.99.95.60 ββ Knitted/Crocheted Synthetic Arm Guards
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.8% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 13.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 13.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Generally Not Eligible for de minimis due to IEEPA, but lowest total rate |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 3.8% β Surtax: 0.0% β IEEPA: 10.0% |
π Explanation:
- This is the LOWEST tariff option (13.8%) among all listed HS Codes.
- It applies specifically to knitted or crocheted arm protectors made of high-strength synthetic fibers.
- Key Advantage: No Section 301 Surtax (0.0%)! Only the 10% IEEPA applies.
- Requirement: Must be knitted/crocheted. Woven fabrics do not qualify for this specific subheading.
π― 5. 6116.93.94.00 ββ Knitted/Crocheted with Plastic/Rubber Coating
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 18.6% |
| Surtax (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 28.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 18.6% β Surtax: 0.0% β IEEPA: 10.0% |
π Explanation:
- Applies to protective sleeves that are knitted/crocheted but impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated with plastics, rubber, or textile materials.
- While it avoids the 301 surtax, the high base rate (18.6%) makes it more expensive than6116.99.95.60(13.8%).
- Use this only if the coating/lamination is integral to the product's identity.
π οΈ Part 4: Practical Customs Clearance Advice (Best Practices & Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Have)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail material composition (e.g., "100% HPPE Knitted"), weight, and dimensions. |
| β Material Composition Label | βοΈ | Clear statement: "Made of High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE)" or "Coated Synthetic Fabric." |
| β Product Photos (Front/Back/Detail) | βοΈ | Show the knitted texture or coating clearly to support HS Code selection. |
| β Cut-Resistance Test Report | βοΈ | ISO 13997 or EN 388 certification. Proves "protective" function, supporting Chapter 61/62 classification. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Arm Protector" or "Cut-Resistant Sleeve," not vague terms like "Accessory." |
| β Bill of Lading / Packing List | βοΈ | Match quantities and weights with invoice. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Tips)
π₯ βKnitted Saves Money, Plastic Costs More! Choose Wisely!β
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| High-Strength Synthetic Knitted Sleeves | 6116.99.95.60 |
Lowest Duty (13.8%). No 301 Surtax. Ideal for standard cut-resistant work sleeves. |
| Textile Sleeves with Plastic Coating/Lamination | 6116.93.94.00 |
Moderate Duty (28.6%). No 301 Surtax. Use if coating is essential for cut resistance. |
| Woven Textile Protective Sleeves | 6216.00.90.00 or 6216.00.80.00 |
Moderate Duty (~21%). No 301 Surtax. Use if not knitted. |
| Plastic-Dominated or Hard Plastic Sleeves | 3926.20.90.10 |
Highest Duty (40%). Only use if the product is fundamentally plastic-based. |
π Critical Warning:
- Do NOT declare "Plastic Arm Guard" if it is knitted textile. This will lead to misclassification, audits, and penalties.
- Do NOT declare "Textile Sleeve" if it is a solid plastic mold. This will lead to rejection by CBP.
β 3. Special Situations
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Sleeves | Provide design files and material specs. Ensure the description matches the actual material (knitted vs. woven vs. plastic). |
| Mixed Material Products | If the product has both textile and plastic parts, determine the essential character. Usually, if it's knitted with coating, 6116.93.94.00 or 6116.99.95.60 is preferred over 3926. |
| Pre-Clearance Ruling | Strongly recommended to apply for an Advance Ruling with CBP if your product is borderline between 6116.99.95.60 and 3926.20.90.10. |
π Part 5: Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Total Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ United States | 6116.99.95.60 |
13.8% | Best option for knitted synthetics. Avoid 3926 (40%). |
| π¨π³ China | 6116.99.95.60 |
~3.8% (Import Duty) | No IEEPA surtax. Lower cost for domestic distribution. |
| πͺπΊ European Union | 6116.99.95.60 |
~3-4% | No 301/IEEPA taxes. Standard textile duties apply. |
| π¬π§ United Kingdom | 6116.99.95.60 |
~3-4% | Post-Brexit, similar to EU. No US-style surtaxes. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is the only one with significant surtaxes (301 + IEEPA).
- For US imports,6116.99.95.60(13.8%) is the clear winner for knitted synthetic arm protectors.
-3926.20.90.10(40%) is prohibitively expensive for most textile-based products.
π Part 6: Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring knitted HPPE sleeves as "Plastic Articles" (3926.20.90.10)
π Result: 40% Duty instead of 13.8%. Losing 26.2% margin.
β Mistake 2: Declaring woven cut-resistant sleeves as "Knitted" (6116.99.95.60)
π Result: Misclassification by CBP. Delay in clearance, potential fines, and re-shipment costs.
β Mistake 3: Using vague descriptions like "Arm Guard" without material details
π Result: CBP will assess duty based on the highest possible rate or request additional documentation, causing delays.
β Mistake 4: Ignoring the "Knitted vs. Woven" distinction
π Result: Wrong HS Code. Knitted goods fall under Ch. 61, Woven under Ch. 62. Different duties and surtax rules apply.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"KNITTED CUT-RESISTANT ARM PROTECTOR, MADE OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE POLYETHYLENE (HPPE), FOR INDUSTRIAL USE, MODEL XYZ"
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Precise Classification, Maximize Profit!
π― Remember the Motto:
πΉ "Knitted & Synthetic? Go for 6116.99.95.60 (13.8%)!"
πΉ "Plastic-Dominated? Brace for 40%!"
πΉ "Don't Mix Up Knitted & Woven, or You'll Pay the Price!"
π Pro Tip:
If your arm protectors are knitted with high-strength synthetic fibers, 6116.99.95.60 is your best friend in the US market. Ensure your supplier provides a Material Composition Certificate to prove the knitted structure.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Consult a licensed customs broker for an Advance Ruling.
π Ensure your product labels clearly state "Knitted" or "Woven" and the primary material.
π Save money, clear customs faster, and boost your profit margins!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent counts in global trade!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.