Boys' Swim Shorts
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6112310020 | 43.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6112390010 | 30.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6211111020 | 45.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6211118020 | 25.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 5504100000 | 21.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
πββοΈ Boys' Swim Shorts (Men's/Athletic Swim Trunks)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Swimwear"?
Boys' Swim Shorts are athletic garments designed for water sports, specifically tailored for male children. In international trade, the classification of swimwear is highly sensitive to material composition (Knitted vs. Woven, Synthetic vs. Cotton vs. Artificial Fiber) and construction method. Misclassification can lead to significant duty disparities due to varying base rates and Section 301/122 penalties.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- Knitted/Tricot (Chapter 61): Typically made of synthetic fibers (like Nylon/Polyester) or Cotton. Often has higher base duties but different trade remedy applications.
- Woven (Chapter 62): Often used for "trunks" or shorts. Classification varies strictly between Artificial Fibers (Rayon/Viscose) and Cotton.
- Material Consistency: The summary explicitly notes "Based on material consistency principle" for certain codes, meaning you must declare the exact fabric content to match the HS code.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description & Material Inference | Total Tax Rate | Tax Detail Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|
6112.31.00.20 |
Boys' athletic swim shorts; Inferred as Synthetic Fiber (e.g., Polyester/Nylon), fitting the use of boys' swimwear. | 43.4% | Base Duty: 25.9% Add'l Duty: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
6112.39.00.10 |
Boys' athletic swim shorts; Knitted or Crocheted, inferred as Cotton or Non-Silk textile material. | 30.7% | Base Duty: 13.2% Add'l Duty: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
6211.11.10.20 |
Boys' athletic swim shorts; Children's swimwear; Inferred as Artificial Fiber (e.g., Viscose/Rayon). | 45.3% | Base Duty: 27.8% Add'l Duty: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
6211.11.80.20 |
Boys' athletic swim shorts; Children's swimwear; Inferred as Cotton. | 25.0% | Base Duty: 7.5% Add'l Duty: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
5504.10.00.00 |
Men's artificial fiber swim shorts; Based on material consistency principle, matched to Viscose Staple Fiber (Artificial Short Fiber). | 21.8% | Base Duty: 4.3% Add'l Duty: 7.5% Section 122: 10% |
π Critical Note on Tax Structure:
For ALL HS codes listed above, the tax structure includes: 1. Base Duty: Varies by material (4.3% to 27.8%). 2. Add'l Duty (Section 301): Fixed at 7.5% for these specific sub-headings in this dataset. 3. Section 122 Duty: Fixed at 10% for these specific sub-headings.Total Tax = Base + 7.5% + 10%.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Market: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Implied by Section 122 & 301 context)
β Applicable Items: Boys' Swim Shorts
π― 1. 6112.31.00.20 β Synthetic Fiber Swim Shorts (Knitted)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 25.9% (High base rate for synthetics in this subheading) |
| Section 301 Add'l Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 43.4% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 43.4% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (High risk of scrutiny) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS 6112.31.00.20 + Trade Remedy Footnotes |
π Explanation:
- This is a knitted garment (6112), typically made of synthetic fibers like Polyester or Nylon.
- The high base duty (25.9%) reflects the treatment of synthetic swimwear in this specific knitted category.
- Warning: Synthetic swimwear often faces stricter scrutiny regarding fiber content declaration.
π― 2. 6112.39.00.10 β Cotton/Non-Silk Knitted Swim Shorts
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 13.2% |
| Section 301 Add'l Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 30.7% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 30.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
- Also knitted (6112), but classified under "Other" (39) implying Cotton or non-silk materials.
- Lower base duty (13.2%) compared to synthetics in this specific knitted category.
- Ideal for cotton-blend or 100% cotton swim trunks.
π― 3. 6211.11.10.20 β Artificial Fiber Swimwear (Woven)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 27.8% |
| Section 301 Add'l Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 45.3% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 45.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
- This is a woven garment (6211), classified as "Children's Swimwear."
- Inferred as Artificial Fiber (e.g., Viscose/Rayon).
- Highest Tax Rate (45.3%) among the options. Avoid this classification unless the material is strictly artificial fiber, as the penalty is severe.
π― 4. 6211.11.80.20 β Cotton Swimwear (Woven)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 7.5% |
| Section 301 Add'l Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 25.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
- Woven (6211), Children's Swimwear.
- Inferred as Cotton.
- Lowest Total Tax (25.0%) for woven children's swimwear. This is the most cost-effective classification if the product is indeed cotton.
π― 5. 5504.10.00.00 β Men's Artificial Fiber Swim Shorts (Staple Fiber)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 4.3% |
| Section 301 Add'l Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 21.8% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 21.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
π Explanation:
- This is a unique classification based on material consistency principle.
- Matches Viscose Staple Fiber (Artificial Short Fiber).
- Lowest Overall Tax (21.8%). However, the description says "Men's" while the product is "Boys'." Ensure that the age group (Boys' vs. Men's) and style (Shorts vs. Trunks) align with HTSUS definitions. If it is strictly "Boys'," Chapter 61 or 62 is usually more appropriate. Use this only if the customs broker confirms the "Men's" subheading applies to this specific style/size.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must explicitly state Fabric Composition (e.g., 80% Polyester, 20% Spandex; or 100% Cotton). |
| β Fiber Content Label | βοΈ | Photo of the internal label showing fiber percentages. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing front, back, and inside lining. Distinguish between Knitted (stretchy, seamless edges) vs. Woven (structured seams). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Boys' Swim Shorts" and HS Code. |
| β Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | βοΈ | Standard shipping documents. |
| β Customs Broker Opinion | βοΈ | Recommended to confirm "Knitted vs. Woven" and "Boy vs. Man" classification. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Rules)
π₯ "Material Dictates Chapter, Age Dictates Subheading!"
| Scenario | Correct Approach | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Fabric (Poly/Nylon) | Check if Knitted (6112) or Woven (6211).K: 6112.31.00.20 (43.4%)W: Not listed directly, but likely 6211.11.x |
Mislabeling as Cotton to get lower duty. |
| Cotton Fabric | If Knitted: 6112.39.00.10 (30.7%)If Woven: 6211.11.80.20 (25.0%) |
Assuming all cotton is cheaper. Knitted cotton is more expensive here. |
| Artificial Fiber (Viscose/Rayon) | Woven: 6211.11.10.20 (45.3%)Staple Fiber Match: 5504.10.00.00 (21.8%) |
Ignoring the specific "Staple Fiber" nuance for 5504. |
| Boys' vs. Men's | Ensure the HTS description matches "Boys'".5504 says "Men's". Use with caution. |
Using 5504 for small-sized boys' shorts without broker approval. |
β 3. Special Handling Tips
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Mixed Materials | If the lining is different from the main body, classify based on the main fabric unless the lining defines the character (rare for swimwear). |
| Printed vs. Plain | Print patterns do not change the HS code for swimwear, but ensure the invoice describes "Printed Swim Shorts" for accurate valuation. |
| Section 122 & 301 | These duties are non-negotiable for Chinese-origin goods. Factor them into your landed cost calculation immediately. |
| De Minimis ($800) | β οΈ High Risk: While Section 321 allows $800 duty-free entry, Section 301 and Section 122 duties may still apply or be subject to stricter enforcement. Do not assume $0 duty. |
π V. Market Comparison (2026 Overview)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Est. Total Duty | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6211.11.80.20 (Cotton Woven) or 6112.31.00.20 (Synth) |
25.0% - 45.3% | Strict fiber declaration; Section 122/301 apply. |
| π¨π³ China | 6211.11 or 6112.31 |
Varies | No Section 301/122. Lower base duties. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6211.11 or 6112.31 |
0% - 12% | No Section 301/122. Requires REACH compliance. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA market is the most expensive due to the layered tariffs (Base + 7.5% + 10%).
- Cotton Woven (6211.11.80.20) offers the best balance of clarity and lower total tax (25.0%) among the common classifications.
- Artificial Fiber Woven (6211.11.10.20) is the most expensive (45.3%) and should be avoided if possible.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying Knitted Swim Shorts as Woven (6211)
π Consequence: Incorrect HS Code β Potential penalty or delayed clearance.
π Fix: Check fabric stretch and edge finishing. Knitted edges are looped; Woven edges are stitched.
β Error 2: Ignoring the "Section 122" and "301" components
π Consequence: Underquoting landed cost β Profit margin erosion.
π Fix: Always add 17.5% (7.5% + 10%) to the base duty calculation for US imports from China.
β Error 3: Misidentifying "Artificial Fiber"
π Consequence: Viscose is artificial, but Polyester is Synthetic. Different HS chapters (54/55 vs 61/62).
π Fix: Verify the fabric tag. "Rayon/Viscose" = Artificial. "Polyester/Nylon" = Synthetic.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Boys' Swim Shorts, 100% Cotton, Knitted, W/ Elastic Waistband, Model XYZ, Made in China"
HS Code:6112.39.00.10
π― VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Strategy:
πΉ "Cotton Woven is King" β 25.0% Total Tax (
6211.11.80.20)
πΉ "Synthetics are Expensive" β 43.4% Total Tax (6112.31.00.20)
πΉ "Artificial Fiber is the Trap" β 45.3% Total Tax (6211.11.10.20)πΉ "Check the Stitch: Knit vs. Woven Changes Everything!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is made of Viscose/Artificial Staple Fiber, investigate the 5504.10.00.00 classification carefully. At 21.8%, it is significantly cheaper than other artificial fiber options, but ensure the "Men's" description is acceptable for boys' sizes by your customs broker.
π£ Immediate Action Required:
π Contact your Customs Broker with the fabric composition.
π Update your Invoice to reflect the exact material (Cotton/Synthetic/Artificial).
π Calculate Landed Cost using the specific Total Tax Rate for your HS Code.
β¨ Accurate Classification, Smooth Clearance, Maximized Profit!
πΌ Every percentage point matters in international trade.
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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.