Professional Ice Hockey Gloves
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6216000500 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6116100500 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6216003300 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6116930500 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 9506992580 | 17.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π Professional Ice Hockey Gloves (Sports Equipment & Protective Gear)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Pro-Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Hockey Gloves"?
Professional Ice Hockey Gloves are specialized protective equipment designed for ice hockey players. They combine mobility with impact protection for the hands and wrists. In international trade, classification depends heavily on the material composition (knitted vs. non-knitted) and processing method (coated vs. uncoated), as well as whether they are classified specifically as "gloves" or under broader "sports equipment."
Based on common market specifications, these gloves are typically constructed with a knitted base (for flexibility) and covered/impregnated with rubber, plastic, or synthetic leather for durability and protection. However, if constructed entirely of non-knitted materials (like heavy-duty woven synthetic fibers without knitting), they fall into a different chapter.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the base fabric is knitted (e.g., jersey knit) and then coated/impregnated β Chapter 61 (6116)
- If the base fabric is not knitted (e.g., woven, felt, or heavily treated fabric) or specifically designed as a general-purpose protective glove without specific knitted structure β Chapter 62 (6216)
- If classified under the "catch-all" for sports equipment without specific glove classification β Chapter 95 (9506)
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material/Structure Inference |
|---|---|---|---|
6216.00.05.00 |
Other gloves, insulated or not, impregnated, coated, covered or laminated with plastics or rubber | General protective gloves, including hockey gloves made of non-knitted base materials treated with plastic/rubber | β Non-knitted base + Plastic/Rubber Coating |
6116.10.05.00 |
Knitted or crocheted gloves, impregnated, coated, covered or laminated with rubber or plastics | Hockey gloves with a knitted base fabric, coated with rubber/plastic for protection | β Knitted Base + Rubber/Plastic Coating |
6216.00.33.00 |
Other gloves, insulated or not, cotton | Hockey gloves inferred to be made of cotton or fabric-based materials (non-knitted structure) | β Cotton/Fabric Base (Non-knitted) |
6116.93.05.00 |
Other gloves, knitted or crocheted, of synthetic fibers | Hockey gloves made of synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, nylon) in a knitted structure | β Synthetic Fibers + Knitted Structure |
9506.99.25.80 |
Other articles for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, or other sports (incl. ski and snowboard equipment) | Broad classification for ice hockey sports equipment, including protective gear if not specifically listed as gloves | β Broad "Sports Equipment" Category |
π Key Reminder:
- Chapter 61 vs. 62: The primary debate is often between 6116 (Knitted) and 6216 (Non-knitted/Woven). Most professional hockey gloves use a knitted palm for dexterity and a synthetic/rubber shell for protection. If the primary structure is knitted, 6116 is preferred. If it is a heavy-duty woven material, 6216 applies. - Chapter 95: While "9506.99.25.80" covers sports equipment, specific glove provisions (Chapters 61/62) usually take precedence over general sports equipment headings. However, some customs authorities may accept 9506 for complex protective gear if glove classification is ambiguous.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 (Based on current 122 Section & 301 Tariffs)
π― 1. 6216.00.05.00 & 6216.00.33.00 ββ Non-Knitted/Other Protective Gloves
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (Ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% (From USITC Section 301) |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% (From 122 Tariff/IEEPA provisions on specific Chinese goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Denied due to Section 301/122 tariffs) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:6216.00.05.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- Non-knitted protective gloves (Chapter 62) face a 7.5% Section 301 tariff. - Additionally, under specific trade actions (Section 122 or similar emergency powers), a 10% surcharge may apply. - Total: 17.5%. This is a moderate-high tariff, requiring accurate HS code selection.
π― 2. 6116.10.05.00 ββ Knitted Gloves (Rubber/Plastic Coated)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (Ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surtax | +0.0% (Exempt or Lower Rate for Specific Knitted Goods) |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 10.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Due to Section 122/IEEPA) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:6116.10.05.00 β IEEPA:122 |
π Note:
- Knitted gloves (Chapter 61) often benefit from lower or zero Section 301 tariffs compared to non-knitted gloves, depending on the specific sub-heading and USITC exclusions. - However, the 10% Section 122/IEEPA tariff still applies. - Total: 10.0%. This is the most tariff-efficient option for knitted-based hockey gloves.
π― 3. 6116.93.05.00 ββ Knitted Gloves of Synthetic Fibers
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 17.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 17.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:6116.93.05.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Caution:
- If the synthetic fiber content is classified under "Other" (not "Rubber/Plastic coated" specifically), it may attract the 7.5% Section 301 tariff. - Total: 17.5%. Ensure the product description emphasizes "coated/impregnated with rubber/plastic" to potentially qualify for6116.10.05.00(10% rate).
π― 4. 9506.99.25.80 ββ Other Sports Equipment
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| Section 301 Surtax | +7.5% |
| Section 122 Surtax | +10% |
| Steel/Aluminum/Copper Add-on | +50% (If containing significant metal components, e.g., metal plates) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 17.5% (Standard) / 50%+ (If metal-heavy) |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ Rate |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:9506.99.25.80 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Warning:
- While this code is for "Sports Equipment," using it for gloves is risky and may be challenged by customs if specific glove codes exist. - If the gloves contain metal reinforcements (e.g., aluminum knuckle guards), the 50% steel/aluminum surtax could apply, making this the most expensive option. - Total: 17.5% (Textile/Synthetic) or 50%+ (Metal components).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Essential Documentation Checklist (All Required)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail materials (e.g., "Knitted polyester palm, synthetic leather back"), dimensions, and weight. |
| β Technical Data Sheet | βοΈ | Explain the coating/impregnation process (rubber, plastic, or neither). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the glove, showing the texture (knitted vs. woven) and any metal/plastic inserts. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Ice Hockey Gloves, Model XYZ, Material: Knitted/Synthetic." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | List items separately if gloves are boxed with other gear. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | To prove Country of Origin (China). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Knitted vs. Woven is Key; Coating Determines Chapter; Avoid Metal Surtax!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Knitted Palm + Rubber Coating | 6116.10.05.00 (10% Rate) |
Misdeclare as 6216 β 17.5% Rate |
| Non-Knitted Woven + Plastic Coating | 6216.00.05.00 (17.5% Rate) |
Misdeclare as 6116 β Audit Risk |
| Gloves with Metal Knuckle Guards | 9506.99.25.80 (High Risk) or 6216 |
Fail to declare metal β 50% Surtax Risk |
| General "Sports Gloves" | Specify "Ice Hockey Gloves" | Vague description β Customs Delay/Reclassification |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Materials | If the glove has a knitted palm but a woven back, customs may classify based on the essential character or the major component. Typically, if >50% by weight/value is knitted, use Chapter 61. |
| Protective Inserts | If the glove has plastic or rubber inserts for protection, emphasize "impregnated/coated/covered with plastic/rubber" in the description to justify Chapter 61/62 protection codes. |
| Metal Components | If there are any metal parts (even small plates), consider the 50% surtax for steel/aluminum. It may be cheaper to declare under 6216 or 6116 if the metal is minor and not the primary function. |
| OEM Custom Gloves | Provide the clientβs design specs to prove the material structure. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6116.10.05.00 |
10% (If Knitted+Coated) | No specific certification | Highest risk of Section 122/301 tariffs |
| π¨π³ China | 6116.10.05.00 |
~10-15% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower export tariffs for China |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6116.10.05.00 |
4% | CE (if deemed PPE) | No Section 301/122 equivalent |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 6116.10.05.00 |
0-6.5% (CUSMA) | No specific certification | CUSMA may apply if manufactured in North America |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex market due to Section 301 and Section 122 tariffs. - Classification as Knitted (6116) is critical to save 7.5% compared to Non-Knitted (6216). - Avoid metal components if possible to escape the 50% steel/aluminum surtax.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring "Hockey Gloves" as 9506.99.25.80 without material detail
π Consequence: Customs may apply 50% surtax if metal is detected, or reclassify to 6116/6216 causing delays.
β Error 2: Claiming "Knitted" when the glove is actually "Woven"
π Consequence: Misclassification. If audited, you pay the difference + penalties. Woven = 17.5%, Knitted = 10%.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 122 Tariffs
π Consequence: Assuming 0% base tax means 0% total. Section 122 adds 10% regardless of Chapter 61/62 for many Chinese goods.
β Error 4: Vague Description "Protective Gloves"
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine if itβs 6116 or 6216. Results in Holds and Inspections.
β Correct Practice:
"Ice Hockey Gloves, Knitted Polyester Palm, Synthetic Leather Back, Rubber Coated Fingers, Model: ProShield X, No Metal Components"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Risk-Free Clearance!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Knitted = 6116 (10%); Woven = 6216 (17.5%); Metal = 50% Disaster!"
πΉ "Specify Material Clearly; Avoid Ambiguity; Save 7.5% with Knitted Classification!"
π Pro Tip:
- If your hockey gloves are manufactured in the USA, Canada, or Mexico, you may qualify for CUSMA/USMFTA duty-free entry (0% tariff) by providing a Certificate of Origin.
- For Chinese-origin gloves, prioritize the 6116.10.05.00 classification (Knitted + Coated) to achieve the lowest possible rate of 10%.
- Always consult a licensed customs broker before shipping large volumes to the US.
π£ Take Action Now:
π Contact a Customs Broker + Provide Material Specs + Apply for Advance Ruling
π Ensure Smooth Clearance, Reduce Costs, and Maximize Profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Tariff Matters in Your Bottom Line!
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.