Combination Chamois Leather
CN β USAI Analysis
𧴠Combination Chamois Leather (Industrial & Automotive Cleaning)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: What is "Combination Chamois"?
Combination Chamois Leather (often referred to as "Chammy" or "Suede Cloth") is a versatile synthetic or semi-synthetic cleaning media. Unlike traditional natural chamois (tanned sheepskin), modern "combination" versions are typically made from: * Polyurethane (PU) / Viscose Blends: Mimicking the water-absorbent properties of natural chamois. * Microfiber Suede: Ultra-fine synthetic fibers. * Hybrid Materials: Combining synthetic fibers with natural leather scraps or other absorbent materials.
In international trade, it is primarily classified under Chapter 59 (Impregnated, Coated, Covered or Laminate Textile Fabrics) or Chapter 40/63 (Rubber/Other textile products) depending on the exact composition. However, the most common global classification for synthetic chamois-like cleaning cloths is 5911.90.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If it is 100% natural sheepskin (tanned) β It may fall under 4117 (Other dressed leather).
- If it is Synthetic/PU/ViscosΠ΅ blend (Most common "Combination" type) β It falls under 5911.90 or 6307.90.
- Note: The term "Chamois Leather" in customs often triggers scrutiny to ensure it is not being misdeclared as high-value natural leather to avoid tariffs or for fraud.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
5911.90.00.00 |
Technical textile articles, other (incl. chamois-cloth) | Cleaning wipes, industrial polishing pads, auto detailing sponges | β Synthetic (PU/Viscose/PE) |
6307.90.99.00 |
Other made up articles, n.e.c. (incl. cleaning cloths) | If not technically classified as "textile fabric" (e.g., loose non-woven sheets) | β Non-woven Synthetic |
4117.10.00.00 |
Furskins and other skins, dressed with the wool or hair on | Natural Chamois (Sheepskin) | β Natural Animal Skin |
5911.20.00.00 |
Felt and felt-lined woven fabric, impregnated/coated | Industrial filtering cloths (sometimes confused with chamois) | β Textile with Impregnation |
π Key Reminder for 2026:
- Synthetic "Chamois" is NOT Natural Leather. Customs authorities in the US, EU, and China strictly separate4117(Natural) from5911/6307(Synthetic).
- If importing into the USA,5911.90is the standard code for synthetic chamois cleaning cloths.
- If the product is impregnated with detergents or cleaning agents, it may be classified under 3402.90 (Prepared washing preparations), but typically, the textile aspect dominates unless the chemical content is significant and declared.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 onwards (Current Import Policy)
π― 1. 5911.90.00.00 ββ Synthetic Chamois / Cleaning Cloths (Most Common)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 5.6% (Most Favored Nation / MFN) |
| Section 301 Tariff (USITC) | +25% (Footnote 9903.88.01 for certain textile products) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% (For China/HK origin, effective Nov 2025) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (Under $800) for textile/apparel items from China |
| Legal Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:5911.90.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Base 5.6%: Standard MFN duty for technical textiles.
- 301 Tariff 25%: Many textile cleaning articles from China are subject to the Section 301 list. Note: Some specific low-value textile items may have been excluded, but "Combination Chamois" is often still included or scrutinized.
- IEEPA 10%: New surcharge starting late 2025.
- Total ~40.6%: This is a high tariff for a low-cost item, significantly impacting margins.
π― 2. 6307.90.99.00 ββ Other Made-Up Textile Articles (If not "Chamois-Cloth")
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 9.3% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% (If listed under 6307.90.99) |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 44.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
π Note: If the product is considered a general "cleaning cloth" rather than a specific "chamois-cloth," it might fall here, resulting in an even higher total tariff.
π οΈ 4. Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| β Material Composition Label | βοΈ | Must state "% Polyurethane", "% Viscose", etc. |
| β Product Photo | βοΈ | Clear shot of texture to distinguish from natural leather |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must use correct HTS Code 5911.90.00.00 (or applicable) |
| β Country of Origin Cert | βοΈ | Crucial for calculating 301/IEEPA tariffs |
| β Test Report (Optional) | βοΈ | If claiming "Eco-friendly" or "Non-toxic" |
| β No "Natural Leather" Claims | β | Do NOT use "Genuine Leather" in description if synthetic |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βSynthetic Chamois, Not Sheepskin; Declare 5911, Save the Pinch!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Chamois Cloth | 5911.90.00.00 - "Synthetic Chamois Cleaning Cloth" |
Calling it "Chamois Leather" β Triggers 4117 (Natural) scrutiny |
| Natural Sheepskin Chamois | 4117.10.00.00 - "Tanned Sheepskin" |
Calling it "Synthetic" to avoid tariffs β Fraud |
| Packaged in Bulk Rolls | 5911.90.00.00 |
Splitting into individual wipes without noting |
| Impregnated with Cleaner | 3402.90.00.00 |
Must declare chemical content >10% by weight |
β 3. Special Situations
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Small Parcels (De Minimis) | β Do NOT use Section 321 ($800 exemption) for China-origin textile chamois. It is blocked or heavily scrutinized. Use formal entry. |
| Labeling | Must clearly state: "Made of Synthetic Materials" or "Not Genuine Leather." |
| Packaging | Ensure HS Code is printed on the inner packaging to avoid re-classification by CBP. |
π 5. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 5911.90.00.00 |
40.6% | N/A | High tariffs due to 301/IEEPA |
| πͺπΊ EU | 5911.90.90 |
~4-6% | REACH (Chemicals) | Lower tariffs, strict chemical safety |
| π¨π³ China | 5911.90.90 |
10-13% | CCC (If specific use) | Import duty high, but domestic production is low-cost |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 5911.90.00 |
5% | N/A | Low tariff, straightforward clearance |
| π―π΅ Japan | 5911.90.00 |
5-10% | JIS | Stable trade relations |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to political tariffs (301 + IEEPA).
- EU/Asia/Australia are much more favorable. Consider Transshipment or Third-Country Assembly (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand) to mitigate US tariffs, but ensure substantial transformation rules are met to avoid "Country of Origin" fraud allegations.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons from Blood)
β Mistake 1: Declaring as "Chamois Leather" without specifying "Synthetic"
π Consequence: Customs suspects natural leather (higher duty, quotas, animal product restrictions) β Audit & Delays!
β Mistake 2: Using De Minimis ($800) for China-Origin Textiles
π Consequence: Package detained and rejected. CBP has blocked textile de minimis for China in many cases.
β Mistake 3: Misidentifying "Impregnated" Cloths
π Consequence: If the cloth has cleaning solution inside, itβs a chemical product (3402), not textile. Misdeclaration leads to FDA/EPA penalties.
β Correct Practice:
"Synthetic Chamois Cleaning Cloth, PU/Viscose Blend, 20x20cm, For Automotive Use, Country of Origin: China"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Synthetic, Not Skin; 5911 is the Key."
πΉ "US Tariff High, Think Twice Before Ship."
πΉ "No De Minimis for Textiles from China."
π Pro Tip:
If you are shipping to the USA, calculate the total landed cost including 40.6% tariffs. For high-volume shipments, consider:
1. Tariff Engineering: Ensure the product fits the lowest possible subheading.
2. Supply Chain Diversification: Move final assembly to Vietnam/Mexico to qualify for lower tariffs (verify USMCA/Vietnam rules).
3. Advance Ruling: Apply for a binding tariff ruling from CBP before large shipments.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult Customs Broker + Verify Material % + Confirm HS Code
π Avoid Delays, Prevent Seizures, Protect Margins!
β¨ Professional Customs, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Every Dollar Matters in Global 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.