Hosiery (HS Code 6115103000)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6117809510 | 32.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115105500 | 32.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6212900030 | 24.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6117809570 | 32.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𧦠Hosiery (Socks & Stockings)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Hosiery"?
"Hosiery" is a broad term in international trade, typically referring to knitted or crocheted legwear, including socks, stockings, tights, and other similar articles. However, the specific HS Code (6115.10.30.00) points to a highly specific subset of this category.
Key Distinctions:
* General Hosiery (6117.80 / 6115.19): Includes socks made of cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers that do not have specific functional characteristics like compression.
* Specific Hosiery (6115.10): Often refers to stockings, knee-socks, ankle-socks, and similar hosiery, particularly those made of textiles (often implying synthetic fibers unless specified as cotton/wool in other subheadings).
* Medical/Therapeutic Hosiery (6115.96 / 6115.95): Specifically gradient pressure socks (compression stockings) have their own dedicated codes.
β οΈ Critical Warning for
6115.10.30.00:
This code generally corresponds to Stockings, knee-socks, ankle-socks, etc., of synthetic fibers (or specific textile categories depending on the country's nomenclature, e.g., US HTSUS). It is NOT a generic "sock" code. Misclassifying cotton socks or wool socks here can lead to severe penalties.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
The provided data indicates potential conflicts or alternative classifications for "Hosiery." Below is the analysis of why the input HS Code (6115.10.30.00) or alternatives might be suggested, along with their tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Summary of Compatibility with "Hosiery" | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
6115.10.30.00 |
Target Code | Direct Match: Specifically covers certain types of hosiery (e.g., synthetic fiber stockings/socks). The data confirms the product name matches this code's scope, assuming the material is synthetic/textile and not cotton/wool. | 32.1% |
6117.80.95.10 |
Hosiery (Cotton) | Possible Match: If the hosiery is made of cotton, it may be reclassified here. The data infers cotton based on common knowledge, noting no conflict in form (knitted accessory). | 32.1% |
6115.10.55.00 |
Hosiery (Gradient Pressure/Synthetic) | Specific Match: If the hosiery is gradient pressure (compression), it must fall under this code. The data confirms consistency with the code's specific material and function requirements. | 32.1% |
6212.90.00.30 |
Brassieres, Girdles, etc. | Unlikely/Incorrect: This code is for brassieres, girdles, and similar articles. While the data suggests "high consistency in form," hosiery (legwear) is fundamentally different from body-shaping apparel. Risk of Misclassification. | 24.1% |
6117.80.95.70 |
Hosiery (Other Materials) | Deduction Match: If the material is neither cotton nor wool nor fine animal hair (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic), it may fall under this "other material" residual category. | 32.1% |
π Key Takeaway:
- The base tax rate for hosiery (whether6115.10,6117.80, etc.) is consistently 32.1% in the provided data.
- The only exception is6212.90.00.30at 24.1%, but this is likely a misclassification for standard hosiery.
- Material is the deciding factor: Cotton (6117.80.95.10) vs. Synthetic (6115.10or6117.80.95.70).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 6115.10.30.00 / 6117.80.95.10 / 6117.80.95.70 / 6115.10.55.00 β Hosiery (Synthetic/Cotton/Compression)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 14.6% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 32.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 32.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:6115.10.x0 / 6117.80.95.xx β Section 301 β Section 122 |
π Explanation:
- Basic Tariff (14.6%): Standard MFN rate for knitted hosiery under Chapter 61.
- Section 301 (7.5%): Additional duty for Chinese goods under USTR lists.
- Section 122 (10%): Specific duty for certain textiles/apparel from China.
- Total: 32.1%: This is a high tariff for consumer goods. Cost planning must account for this full rate.
π― 2. 6212.90.00.30 β Brassieres, Girdles, etc. (Potential Misclassification)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.6% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 24.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 24.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
β οΈ Warning:
- This rate is lower (24.1%) than the standard hosiery rate (32.1%).
- However, using this code for socks/stockings is incorrect unless the product is explicitly a girdle, brassiere, or similar body-shaping article.
- Risk: If audited, customs will reclassify to the correct hosiery code, leading to back taxes + penalties. Do not use this code for standard hosiery.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must specify fiber content (e.g., "80% Polyester, 20% Elastane"). Crucial for distinguishing between 6115.10 (synthetic) and 6117.80 (cotton). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of socks/stockings, including labels showing size, material, and care instructions. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Hosiery, Knitted" and specify material. Do not use vague terms like "Clothing Accessories." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Show quantity per style/color. |
| β Origin Certificate | βοΈ | If applicable, to verify CN origin. |
| β Test Report | βοΈ | Fiber content analysis from an accredited lab (e.g., SGS, BV) to prove material composition. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Material is King, Function is Queen, Don't Guess, Just Show!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton Socks | 6117.80.95.10 (14.6% + 7.5% + 10%) |
Declare as 6115.10 β Risk of penalty for misdeclaration. |
| Synthetic Socks | 6117.80.95.70 or 6115.10.30.00 (depending on specific type) |
Declare as 6212.90.00.30 β High risk of audit & reclassification. |
| Compression Socks | 6115.10.55.00 |
Declare as standard socks β May miss specific regulatory requirements (if any) or be flagged. |
| Mixed Material | Provide Fiber Content % | Assume "Other" β Incorrect tax calculation. |
β 3. Special Handling Cases
| Case | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OEM/Private Label | Provide client order + design specs. Ensure material matches code. |
| Sample Shipments | Even samples are subject to 32.1% tariff. No de minimis. |
| Return/Re-export | If goods were misclassified, correct declaration is mandatory to avoid seizure. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6115.10.30.00 / 6117.80.95.10 |
32.1% (14.6% Base + 7.5% Sec 301 + 10% Sec 122) | None specific | High tariff burden. De minimis ($800) does NOT apply. |
| π¨π³ China | 6115.10.30.00 |
~5-10% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower tariffs for domestic consumption. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6115.96 (Compression) / 6115.10 |
~12-15% | CE (if medical) | No Section 301/122 surcharges. |
| π¬π§ UK | 6115.10 |
~12-15% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 6115.10 |
~10-15% | PSE (if electronic) | No major surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most challenging market for hosiery due to the 32.1% total duty.
- De Minimis Exemption ($800) is VOID for this category from China. Every shipment, regardless of value, is subject to full tariff.
- Material Declaration is Critical: Misdeclaring cotton as synthetic (or vice versa) can lead to discrepancies in tariff application.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood-Taught Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring all "Hosiery" under one code (6115.10.30.00) regardless of material.
π Consequence: If the socks are actually cotton, customs will reclassify to 6117.80.95.10. While the rate is similar (32.1%), the misdeclaration can trigger audits and delays.
β Error 2: Using 6212.90.00.30 to save 8% (24.1% vs 32.1%).
π Consequence: Severe Penalty. Hosiery (legwear) is NOT brassieres/girdles. Customs will reject the classification, apply the correct 32.1% rate, plus interest and fines.
β Error 3: Assuming De Minimis ($800) applies.
π Consequence: Full Tax Liability. Section 301 and Section 122 goods are explicitly excluded from de minimis. A $500 shipment of socks will still incur ~$160 in duties.
β Correct Approach:
"Hosiery, Knitted, 80% Polyester/20% Spandex, Ankle Socks, Men's, Model XYZ"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Efficiency!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Material Defines Code, Section 301/122 Hits Hard, De Minimis is Dead, Declare Accurately!"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Fate, 32.1% is the Benchmark, Misdeclaration Costs More!"
π Pro Tip:
If your hosiery is shipped from Vietnam, Bangladesh, or India, check for preferential tariffs (e.g., GSP, FTAs). However, note that Section 301/122 surcharges may still apply depending on the specific trade remedy rules. Always verify origin criteria.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker.
πΈ Provide high-res photos + Fiber Content Analysis Report.
π Ensure your commercial invoice clearly states material composition to avoid customs holds.
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Duty is Worth Calculating Precisely!
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.