Hosiery
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6115959000 | 31.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115969020 | 24.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115966010 | 36.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115940000 | 28.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6111206050 | 25.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𧦠Hosiery (Socks & Stockings): The HS Code & Tax Deep Dive
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Are You Really Sure About "Hosiery"?
Hosiery, in international trade, primarily refers to knitted or crocheted socks, stockings, tights, and pantyhose. The critical distinction lies not just in the shape, but in the material composition (Cotton vs. Synthetic Fibers) and the specific garment type.
β οΈ Key Classification Logic:
- Material Matters: The tariff rates vary significantly between Cotton (Chapter 61, Heading 6115/6111) and Synthetic/Artificial Fibers.
- Section 122 & Section 301: Most of these codes carry additional punitive tariffs due to US-China trade tensions.
- "General Purpose" vs. Specific Types: Misclassifying general socks as tights (or vice versa) can lead to massive tariff discrepancies.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the potential HS Codes for Hosiery/Socks, with their tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Material Inference | Total Tax Rate | Tax Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
6115.95.90.00 |
Knitted/Crocheted Hosiery, Not Elsewhere Specified | General/Mixed (Likely Cotton or Synthetic) | 31.0% | Base: 13.5% Sec 301: 7.5% Sec 122: 10% |
6115.96.90.20 |
Tights, Stockings, Socks (Knitted) | Synthetic Fibers (Inferred) | 24.6% | Base: 14.6% Sec 301: 0.0% Sec 122: 10% |
6115.96.60.10 |
Socks (Knitted/Crocheted) | General/No Material Conflict | 36.3% | Base: 18.8% Sec 301: 7.5% Sec 122: 10% |
6115.94.00.00 |
Socks (Knitted/Crocheted) | General (Fits "Socks" Category) | 28.8% | Base: 11.3% Sec 301: 7.5% Sec 122: 10% |
6111.20.60.50 |
Socks (Knitted/Crocheted) | Cotton (Inferred, "Catch-all" logic) | 25.6% | Base: 8.1% Sec 301: 7.5% Sec 122: 10% |
π Critical Observation:
- Sec 122 (10%): This additional tariff applies to ALL listed hosiery items. This is a non-negotiable cost for imports into the US from China (assuming Chinese origin).
- Sec 301 (7.5%): Applies to most codes except6115.96.90.20.
- Base Tariff: Ranges from 8.1% to 18.8%. Choosing the right HS code can save up to 5.7% in base duties alone.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Detailed Explanation
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN) (Implied by Sec 301 & 122 applicability)
β Effective Date: Current through 2026
π― 1. 6115.95.90.00 ββ Hosiery, Not Elsewhere Specified
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 13.5% |
| Section 301 Duty | +7.5% (Retaliatory Tariff) |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% (Targeted Sector Tariff) |
| Total Effective Rate | 31.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 31.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Deny De Minimis for these codes) |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:6115.95.90 β 301:13.5%+7.5% β 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This is a "catch-all" for hosiery not specifically defined elsewhere.
- High Risk: Because it's a generic category, customs may scrutinize the material description. If you claim "Cotton" but it's "Polyester," this code might be challenged.
π― 2. 6115.96.90.20 ββ Tights, Stockings, Socks (Synthetic)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 14.6% |
| Section 301 Duty | +0.0% (EXEMPT) |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 24.6% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 24.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:6115.96.90.20 β 301:Exempt β 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- Best Case Scenario: This code has NO Section 301 tariff.
- Condition: Must be clearly defined as synthetic fibers. If customs determines it's cotton, you could face back taxes.
π― 3. 6115.96.60.10 ββ Socks (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 18.8% |
| Section 301 Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 36.3% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 36.3% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:6115.96.60.10 β 301:7.5% β 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- Highest Tax Rate: 36.3% is the most expensive option.
- Use this only if the product specifically fits this detailed subheading. Avoid if possible due to cost.
π― 4. 6115.94.00.00 ββ Socks (Knitted/Crocheted)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 11.3% |
| Section 301 Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 28.8% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:6115.94.00.00 β 301:7.5% β 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- A solid middle-ground option. Lower base duty than6115.96.60.10, but still carries Sec 301.
π― 5. 6111.20.60.50 ββ Cotton Socks (Inferred)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty | 8.1% |
| Section 301 Duty | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 25.6% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis | HTSUS:6111.20.60.50 β 301:7.5% β 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- Best Cost for Cotton: If your socks are >85% cotton, this is likely the most cost-effective code among the taxable options.
- Lowest Base Duty: 8.1% is significantly lower than synthetic counterparts.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Spec Sheet | βοΈ | Must state Fiber Content (e.g., 95% Cotton, 5% Spandex). Crucial for HS Code selection. |
| β Composition Label | βοΈ | Photo of the care label showing material % is essential. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe as "Knitted Cotton Socks" or "Synthetic Tights," NOT just "Hosiery." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Ensure weight and dimensions match the HS code definition (e.g., tights vs. ankle socks). |
| β Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Proves Chinese origin (triggering Sec 301/122). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Material Dictates Code, Section 122 is Always On!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton Socks | 6111.20.60.50 |
Misclassifying as Synthetic β 28.8%+ |
| Synthetic Tights | 6115.96.90.20 |
Misclassifying as Cotton β 25.6% (but risk audit) |
| Mixed Material | 6115.95.90.00 |
Vague description "Hosiery" β 31.0% + Delay |
| Sample Shipment | Still Declare | Attempting De Minimis β Seized/Rejected |
β οΈ Warning:
- Section 122 (10%) applies to ALL hosiery imports from China. There is no exemption for samples or low-value shipments in this category.
- De Minimis (Section 321): Most hosiery codes listed above are excluded from the $800 de minimis exemption due to recent enforcement trends. Do not rely on it.
β 3. Special Handling
| Scenario | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Multi-Material Socks | Use 6115.95.90.00 (31.0%) as the safest generic code, or get a pre-ruling. |
| OEM Branded Socks | Ensure the invoice clearly states "For [Brand Name]." Brand does not change HS Code. |
| Bundles/Kits | If sold as "3 pairs of socks," declare as single unit or per pair? Usually per pair or per item. Check CBP ruling. |
| Seasonal Imports | Plan for 24.6% - 36.3% total landed cost impact. Factor this into pricing. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6115.95.90.00 (Varies) |
24.6% - 36.3% | Sec 122 + Sec 301 apply. High barrier. |
| π¨π³ China | 6115.95.90.00 |
~10-15% | Lower tariffs, different structure. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6115.95 |
12-16% | No Sec 301/122. Standard WTO rates. |
| π¬π§ UK | 6115.95 |
12-16% | Post-Brexit independent trade policy. |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 6115.95 |
0-16% | CUSMA allows duty-free for qualifying goods. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is the most expensive for Chinese hosiery due to Sec 301 & Sec 122.
- Strategy: Consider sourcing from Vietnam, India, or Bangladesh to avoid Sec 301/122 tariffs entirely (if rules of origin are met).
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring "Socks" with vague material description.
π Consequence: Customs assigns the highest applicable code (e.g., 36.3%) and holds shipment for audit.
β Error 2: Attempting De Minimis ($800 exemption) for Hosiery.
π Consequence: Shipment rejected/seized. Section 122 targets these goods specifically.
β Error 3: Confusing "Tights" (opaque, full leg) with "Stockings" (sheer, partial).
π Consequence: Incorrect HS Code β Underpayment of Duty β Back taxes + Penalties.
β Error 4: Ignoring Section 122.
π Consequence: The 10% Sec 122 tariff is automatic for these codes. Do not plan without it.
β Correct Approach:
"Knitted Cotton Socks, 95% Cotton/5% Spandex, Ankle Length, Men's, Brand XYZ, HS 6111.20.60.50"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Clearance, Cost Control!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Material First, Code Second, Sec 122 is Always Paid."
πΉ "Choose Synthetic for 24.6%, Cotton for 25.6%, Avoid 36.3%."
πΉ "No De Minimis for Hosiery from China β Plan for Tariffs!"
π Pro Tip:
If your hosiery is made in Vietnam, India, or Bangladesh, you can potentially avoid Sec 301 and Sec 122, reducing tariffs to Base Rate Only (8-15%).
π Action:
- Verify Fiber Content accurately.
- Confirm Country of Origin.
- Consult a licensed customs broker for Pre-Ruling if volume is high.
β¨ Precise Classification Saves Thousands!
πΌ Every Percent Counts in Hosiery Margins.
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.