SPANX
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9021908100 | 10.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6212200020 | 37.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6212300020 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6108920015 | 33.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6108910015 | 18.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π SPANX & Shapewear (Body Shaping Garments)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "SPANX"?
SPANX and similar shapewear represent a unique category in the textile and orthopedic industry. They are functional wearables designed to correct posture or provide body support, bridging the gap between fashion underwear and medical orthopedic devices. In international trade, they are strictly categorized based on functionality (orthopedic support) versus material/composition (knitted/crocheted vs. woven, cotton vs. synthetic fibers).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the garmentβs primary function is orthopedic correction or medical support β Classified under Chapter 90 (Medical Devices)
- If the garment is primarily for fashion, slimming, or aesthetic shaping without medical certification β Classified under Chapter 61/62 (Clothing & Accessories)
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authoritative Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material/Function Conflict? |
|---|---|---|---|
9021.90.81.00 |
Orthopedic Appliances: Shapewear classified as functional wearables for body support/correction. | Medical-grade shapewear, post-surgical wear, posture correctors. | β No conflict: Fits orthopedic attributes. |
6212.20.00.20 |
Corsets & Girdles: Shapewear falls into the "corset" category, inferred as synthetic fibers. | Fashion shapewear, synthetic waist trainers, woven materials. | β Inferred: Synthetic fiber composition. |
6212.30.00.20 |
Corsets & Girdles: Form matches, inferred synthetic fiber content, no conflict. | Structured shapewear, high-compression garments, woven synthetics. | β No conflict: Synthetic fiber implied. |
6108.92.00.15 |
Womenβs Underwear: Intended for underwear use, inferred synthetic fibers, no form/material conflict. | Knitted synthetic shapewear, slip-ons, non-medical. | β Inferred: Synthetic fiber content. |
6108.91.00.15 |
Womenβs Underwear: Intended for underwear, inferred cotton or knitted form, no obvious conflict. | Knitted cotton-based shapewear, basic slimming wear. | β Inferred: Cotton or knitted material. |
π Key Reminder:
- Products marketed strictly as "Medical/Orthopedic" (with FDA/CE medical device certification) should ideally be classified under 9021.90.81.00 to potentially reduce tariff burdens. - Products marketed as "Fashion/Slimming" (e.g., standard SPANX brand items) are typically classified under 6212 or 6108 series, which carry higher base tariffs due to textile duties. - Do not split shipments: If a package contains both medical shapewear and fashion shapewear, Customs may scrutinize the entire shipment. Clear separation is advised.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes, Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 9021.90.81.00 ββ Orthopedic Shapewear (Medical/Functional Grade)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific surtax for China-origin goods under Section 122 provisions) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 10.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 10.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable (Medical devices generally exclude de minimis benefits) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:9021.90.81.00 β Section 122: +10% |
π Explanation:
- This is the most favorable tariff rate for shapewear if it qualifies as an orthopedic appliance. - The 10% Section 122 tariff is significantly lower than the Section 301 surcharges applied to textiles. - Requirement: Must provide medical device registration certificates or clinical function statements to justify this classification.
π― 2. 6212.20.00.20 ββ Corsets/Girdles (Synthetic Fiber/Woven)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 20.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +7.5% (Section 301 surtax on textiles) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific surtax for China-origin goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 37.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 37.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:6212.20.00.20 β Section 301: +7.5% β Section 122: +10% |
π Note:
- This classification applies to woven synthetic shapewear (e.g., waist trainers made of non-knitted fabric). - The 7.5% Section 301 surtax is added to the base 20%, plus the 10% Section 122. - High tariff burden; requires careful margin calculation.
π― 3. 6212.30.00.20 ββ Corsets/Girdles (Synthetic Fiber/High Compression)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 23.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +7.5% (Section 301 surtax on textiles) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific surtax for China-origin goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:6212.30.00.20 β Section 301: +7.5% β Section 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Often applies to high-compression, structured shapewear where the base rate is higher due to specific material composition. - 41.0% is a very high effective duty rate. Importers must verify if any part of the garment can be classified differently to lower the total cost.
π― 4. 6108.92.00.15 ββ Womenβs Synthetic Underwear (Knitted)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 16.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +7.5% (Section 301 surtax on textiles) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific surtax for China-origin goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 33.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 33.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:6108.92.00.15 β Section 301: +7.5% β Section 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Applies to knitted synthetic shapewear (e.g., typical SPANX bodysuits made from nylon/spandex blends). - The base rate is lower than woven items (20-23.5%), but the 7.5% Section 301 surtax still applies. - Common classification for mass-market fashion shapewear.
π― 5. 6108.91.00.15 ββ Womenβs Cotton Underwear (Knitted)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 8.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | 0.0% (Note: Some cotton items may be exempt from specific Section 301 lists, but verify current status) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10% (Specific surtax for China-origin goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 18.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 18.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | HS:6108.91.00.15 β Section 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Applies to knitted cotton-based shapewear. - Lowest tariff rate among clothing categories at 18.5% (assuming 0% Section 301 for this specific cotton subtype). - If the product is primarily cotton (e.g., cotton-control tops), this is the cost-effective choice.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Detailed material breakdown (e.g., 80% Nylon, 20% Spandex), knitting/woven status. |
| β Function Statement | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Orthopedic Support" (for 9021) or "Fashion Slimming" (for 6108/6212). |
| β Medical Device Certificate | βοΈ | If claiming 9021.90.81.00, provide FDA/CE Class I/II device registration. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing seams, elasticity, and packaging labels. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must accurately describe the item as "Shapewear," "Corset," or "Orthopedic Garment." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Specify quantity per package to avoid mixed-shipment scrutiny. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Function Dictates Code, Material Confirms It, Medical Proof Lowers Rates!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Medical-Grade Shapewear | 9021.90.81.00 + "Orthopedic Support" |
Declaring as "Underwear" β 41% Tax! |
| Synthetic Fashion Shapewear | 6108.92.00.15 + "Knitted Synthetic Bodysuit" |
Vague term "Clothing" β Delays & Penalties |
| Cotton-Control Top | 6108.91.00.15 + "Knitted Cotton Underwear" |
Mislabeling as "Synthetic" β Higher Tax (18.5% vs 33.5%) |
| Woven Waist Trainer | 6212.20.00.20 + "Synthetic Corset" |
Declaring as "Knitted" β Misclassification Risk |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Material Garments | If >50% cotton, classify under cotton code (6108.91). If >50% synthetic, use synthetic code (6108.92/6212). |
| OEM/White Label | Provide OEM agreement and design sheets. Avoid using competitor brand names (e.g., "SPANX") unless authorized to prevent IP seizures. |
| Post-Surgical Wear | Strongly recommend 9021.90.81.00. Provide doctorβs prescription templates or clinical test reports to justify medical function. |
| Seasonal Fashion Shapewear | Usually classified under 6108.92.00.15 or 6212. Ensure accurate fiber content labels to avoid disputes. |
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Certification Required | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 9021.90.81.00 (Medical) |
10.0% | FDA/CE | Lowest rate if medical certified. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 6108.92.00.15 (Fashion) |
33.5% | None | High tax due to Section 301. |
| π¨π³ China | 6108.92.00.15 |
~8-10% | None | Lower base import tax. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6212.20.00 |
~12% | REACH Compliance | No Section 301/122 surtaxes. |
| π¬π§ UK | 6108.92.00 |
~12% | UKCA | Post-Brexit alignment with EU. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA is the most complex market due to the Section 122 (+10%) and Section 301 (+7.5%) surtaxes on textiles. - Medical classification (9021) is the only way to significantly reduce tariffs on shapewear entering the US. - EU/UK do not apply these punitive surtaxes, making them more cost-effective for fashion shapewear.
π Part 6: Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring medical-grade shapewear as "Fashion Underwear"
π Consequence: Tax jumps from 10% to 33.5-41% β Profit Margins Erased!
β Mistake 2: Vague description "Shapewear" without material breakdown
π Consequence: Customs may assign the highest default tariff or request additional documentation β Delays
β Mistake 3: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
π Consequence: Underestimating costs by 10% on all goods from China β Unexpected Expenses
β Mistake 4: Using Brand Name "SPANX" Without Authorization
π Consequence: IP Infringement Seizure by Customs β Loss of Goods + Legal Fees
β Correct Approach:
"Orthopedic Body Shaper, Post-Surgical Support Garment, FDA Registered, Model XYZ, Material: 85% Nylon/15% Spandex, Made in China"
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Medical First, Fashion Second, Section 122 Always Applies!"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Life or Death, Tax Rate Difference is 30 Points, Wrong Declaration Costs Thousands!"
π Tips:
- If your shapewear is manufactured in Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, you may qualify for Section 122 Exemptions, reducing the total tax to Base + 7.5% or even 0% depending on FTAs.
- Consider Advance Rulings (Pre-Classification) with US Customs (CBP) to secure the 9021.90.81.00 classification if applicable.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide Product Specs + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Let your shapewear, pass customs smoothly, boost profits, and scale efficiently!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves Precise Calculation!
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.