DIY Sewing Kit
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9605000000 | 18.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6308000020 | 28.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7319901000 | 67.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7319909000 | 70.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9605000000 | 18.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
𧡠DIY Sewing Kit (Handy Travel Sets & Needle Tools)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is a "DIY Sewing Kit"?
A "DIY Sewing Kit" generally refers to a collection of needlework supplies designed for personal use, travel, or emergency repairs. In international trade, the classification depends heavily on the form (set vs. loose) and the content (embroidery vs. general sewing).
Two Main Categories: 1. Sewing Travel Sets (ε₯θ£ ): Kits containing needles, thread, buttons, and sometimes scissors or thimbles, packed in a portable case or pouch. 2. Embroidery/Embroidery Cloth Kits (ε₯δ»Ά): Specifically focused on embroidery patterns, often including fabric (cloth) and yarn/thread. 3. Loose Needles (ιη±»): If the "kit" is essentially just a box of sewing needles without other accessories, it may be classified strictly as metal needles.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the product is a complete set (needles + thread + tools) for travel/home use β 9605.00.00.00
- If the product is an embroidery kit including fabric/cloth β 6308.00.00.20
- If the product is just needles (or primarily needles) β 7319.90.10.00 or 7319.90.90.00
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
9605.00.00.00 |
Ready-made dressing, sewing or shoe polishing kits; travel sets | Travel sewing kits, portable repair kits | β Set Form: Contains multiple tools (needles, thread, etc.) in a case. |
6308.00.00.20 |
Woven fabric and yarn sets for making up embroidery tablecloths, cushions, etc. | Embroidery kits with fabric, yarn, and patterns | β Material: Must contain fabric/cloth and yarn for embroidery. |
7319.90.10.00 |
Needles, of iron or steel (sewing needles) | Single-use needle packs, bulk needle boxes | β Material: Purely metal (iron/steel) needles. No other components. |
7319.90.90.00 |
Other needles, of iron or steel | Other metal needle tools (e.g., knitting needles, crocheting hooks if not classified elsewhere) | β Material: Metal needles, but potentially different shape/use than standard sewing needles. |
π Key Reminder:
- Sets win over parts: If you have a box with needles AND thread AND a case, do NOT declare it as just "Needles" (7319). It must be a Kit (9605).
- Fabric is key: If the kit includes embroidery cloth, it falls under 6308, not 9605.
- Material Assumption: For needle-specific codes (7319), it is commonly assumed to be Iron/Steel unless specified otherwise. This triggers high Section 301/122 tariffs.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9605.00.00.00 β Ready-made Dressing, Sewing or Shoe Polishing Kits
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 8.1% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301/Added Tariff | 0.0% (Note: Some interpretations may vary, but current data shows 0% for this specific subheading under certain conditions, or included in base) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific to China origin for certain goods) |
| Total Tax Rate | 18.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 18.1% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High tariff value usually exceeds de minimis threshold for meaningful savings, though technically < $800 is exempt, value-based duties apply if declared above). |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 9605.00.00.00 β Added: 0% β 122: 10% |
π Explanation:
- This is the most favorable classification for "kits" that contain multiple items (needles, thread, case).
- The total rate of 18.1% is significantly lower than classifying as metal goods.
- Strategy: Ensure your product description emphasizes "Travel Set" or "Ready-made Kit" with multiple components.
π― 2. 6308.00.00.20 β Woven Fabric and Yarn Sets for Embroidery
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 11.4% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301/Added Tariff | +7.5% (Section 301 Tariff on Chinese goods) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific to China origin) |
| Total Tax Rate | 28.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.9% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6308.00.00.20 β Added: 7.5% β 122: 10% |
π Explanation:
- Applies ONLY if the kit includes woven fabric/cloth for embroidery.
- If you are selling "Embroidery Thread Kits" without fabric, this code may be challenged.
- Higher than standard sewing kits (9605) due to the textile base rate.
π― 3. 7319.90.10.00 β Needles, of Iron or Steel (Sewing Needles)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301/Added Tariff | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Additional Tariff | +50% (Critical!) |
| Total Tax Rate | 67.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 67.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 7319.90.10.00 β Added: 7.5% β 122: 10% β Steel Addtl: 50% |
π Explanation:
- DANGER ZONE: If you declare a "Sewing Kit" as just "Needles" (7319), you trigger the 50% additional tariff on steel products.
- Even though the base rate is 0%, the 67.5% total makes this extremely expensive.
- Why? U.S. policy imposes steep penalties on Chinese steel/aluminum/copper imports to protect domestic metal industries.
- Advice: Avoid this code unless you are shipping LOOSE, BULK NEEDLES with no other items, and even then, consider the 50% hit.
π― 4. 7319.90.90.00 β Other Needles, of Iron or Steel
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 2.9% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301/Added Tariff | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Additional Tariff | +50% (Critical!) |
| Total Tax Rate | 70.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 70.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 7319.90.90.00 β Added: 7.5% β 122: 10% β Steel Addtl: 50% |
π Explanation:
- Similar to above, but with a slightly higher base rate.
- Total 70.4% is the highest risk category.
- Only applies to non-standard metal needles (e.g., knitting needles, if not classified elsewhere).
- Do NOT use for standard sewing kits.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Detail contents: "10 needles, 5 threads, 1 case". Proves it's a Kit. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show the set in its packaging. Avoid photos showing only needles. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe as "Sewing Travel Set" or "Embroidery Kit", NOT "Needles". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List all components (thread, needle, scissors, case) to support HS 9605. |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | If claiming 9605, confirm no significant fabric (cloth) content. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Tips)
π₯ "Kit is King, Fabric is Special, Steel is Pain!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Sewing Kit (Needles + Thread + Case) | 9605.00.00.00 - "Sewing Travel Set" |
7319.90.10.00 - "Sewing Needles" |
Save ~50%! (18.1% vs 67.5%) |
| Embroidery Kit (Fabric + Yarn + Needles) | 6308.00.00.20 - "Embroidery Fabric & Yarn Set" |
9605.00.00.00 |
Correct. Avoids misclassification penalty. |
| Loose Needles (Only needles, no thread/case) | 7319.90.10.00 - "Sewing Needles, Steel" |
9605.00.00.00 |
Risk. If no other items, 9605 may be rejected. |
β οΈ Critical Warning:
- Do NOT describe a kit as "Needles" to try and lower the base rate. The 50% Steel Tariff on code 7319 makes it the most expensive option.
- Do NOT include fabric if you want HS 9605. If fabric is present, you MUST use HS 6308.
β 3. Special Cases
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Kits | Provide design drawings showing the set layout. Emphasize "Ready-made set" for travel. |
| Needles Only | If you truly have only needles, expect 67.5% tax. Consider bundling with thread/case to justify HS 9605. |
| Mixed Materials | If the kit has plastic cases + steel needles, the "Kit" classification (9605) still applies as it's the essential character. |
| Embroidery vs. Sewing | If the pattern is embroidery and includes cloth, use 6308. If it's general mending (buttons, seams), use 9605. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9605.00.00.00 |
18.1% (if kit) 67.5% (if needles) |
None specific | Highest risk if misclassified as needles. |
| π¨π³ China | 9605.00.00.00 |
5-10% (Import Duty) | N/A | Low duty for import into China. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 9605.00.00.00 |
~5-6% (Most Favored Nation) | CE (if applicable) | No Section 122 or Steel 50% tariffs. |
| π¬π§ UK | 9605.00.00.00 |
~5-6% | UKCA (if applicable) | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the only market with the 50% Steel Penalty and 122% Tariffs.
- EU/UK are much more favorable (~5-6%) if correctly classified as Kits.
- Strategy for USA: Always aim for HS 9605.00.00.00 by ensuring your product is a complete set with multiple components.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a "Sewing Kit" as "Sewing Needles" (7319)
π Consequence: You pay 67.5% tax instead of 18.1%. Loss of profit margin.
β Mistake 2: Including embroidery fabric but declaring as "Sewing Kit" (9605)
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 6308 (28.9%) or demand additional duties. Audit risk.
β Mistake 3: Not providing a packing list for kits
π Consequence: Customs cannot verify it's a "set". May default to highest-rated component (Needles β 67.5%). Delay/Seizure.
β Mistake 4: Using vague descriptions like "Craft Supplies"
π Consequence: Customs assigns a default code with high duty. Always be specific.
β Correct Practice:
"Travel Sewing Kit, Ready-made, containing needles, thread, thimble, and case. Model XYZ."
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Maximum Savings!
π― Key Takeaways:
πΉ "If it's a set, it's 9605 (18.1%). If it's steel needles only, it's 7319 (67.5%)."
πΉ "If it has cloth, it's 6308 (28.9%)."
πΉ "Avoid Steel Tariffs at all costs for kits!"
π Pro Tip:
If you are selling to the US, bundle your needles with thread and a small case. This allows you to claim HS 9605.00.00.00, saving you 49.4% in duties compared to declaring as needles.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a customs broker to verify your kit's composition.
πΈ Use clear product images showing the entire set.
π Declare correctly, save thousands, and clear customs smoothly!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every percentage point of tax saved is pure profit!
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.