Swim Shorts and Shorts
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6112310010 | 43.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6112390010 | 30.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6211118010 | 25.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6211111010 | 45.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3926909989 | 22.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Swim Shorts & Shorts (Menβs/Unisex Bottoms)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Classification Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Swim Shorts"?
Swim shorts are essential apparel for aquatic activities, but in international trade, they are strictly categorized based on their fabric structure (Knitted vs. Woven) and material composition. Misclassification can lead to significant tariff differences and customs delays.
In the provided data (), five specific HS Codes are identified. We must distinguish between: 1. Knitted Swim Shorts (Elastic, stretchy, jersey-like fabric) 2. Woven Swim Shorts (Structured, non-stretchy, tailored fabric) 3. Plastic/Synthetic Fiber Articles (Non-textile swimwear components)
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the fabric is knitted (looped structure, high elasticity) β Chapter 61
- If the fabric is woven (interlaced yarns, tailored fit) β Chapter 62
- If the item is made of plastic/rubber rather than textile fabric β Chapter 39
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided )
| HS Code | Product Description | Material/Structure | Total Tax Rate | Key Tax Components |
|---|---|---|---|---|
6112.31.00.10 |
Knitted Swim Shorts | Synthetic Fiber | 43.4% | Base: 25.9%, Sec 301: 7.5%, 122 Clause: 10% |
6112.39.00.10 |
Other Knitted Swim Shorts | Other Textile Materials | 30.7% | Base: 13.2%, Sec 301: 7.5%, 122 Clause: 10% |
6211.11.80.10 |
Men's Woven Swim Shorts | Woven (Material Unspecified in Summary) | 25.0% | Base: 7.5%, Sec 301: 7.5%, 122 Clause: 10% |
6211.11.10.10 |
Woven Swim Shorts | Man-Made or Synthetic Fiber | 45.3% | Base: 27.8%, Sec 301: 7.5%, 122 Clause: 10% |
3926.90.99.89 |
Plastic/Synthetic Swimwear Articles | Plastic or Non-Textile Synthetic | 22.8% | Base: 5.3%, Sec 301: 7.5%, 122 Clause: 10% |
π Critical Insight:
- Chapter 61 (Knitted) items face different base rates than Chapter 62 (Woven) items. - The "122 Clause Tariff" appears consistently across all categories at 10%, indicating a specific regulatory surcharge for these goods. - Woven synthetic swim shorts (6211.11.10.10) have the highest total tax (45.3%) due to a high base tariff (27.8%). - Plastic-based swimwear (3926.90.99.89) offers a lower entry point (22.8%) but may be scrutinized for misclassification if it is actually textile.
π° III. Detailed Tariff Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Context: Based on the tax structure (Base + "301-style" + "122 Clause"), this analysis reflects a high-tariff environment for imports from China (CN) to markets like the US (US), effective from recent policy updates.
π― 1. 6112.31.00.10 β Knitted Swim Shorts (Synthetic Fiber)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 25.9% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Clause 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 43.4% |
| Calculation Base | CIF Value (Cost + Insurance + Freight) |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High tax burden excludes small parcel exemptions) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:6112.31.00.10 β USITC:25.9% β USMCA/301:7.5% β Clause 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This category applies to synthetic fiber knitted swimwear (e.g., polyester, nylon blends with spandex). - The 25.9% base rate is significantly higher than other knitted items, reflecting protectionist measures for domestic textile manufacturing. - Total 43.4% is a major cost driver; profit margins must account for this.
π― 2. 6112.39.00.10 β Other Knitted Swim Shorts (Non-Synthetic)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 13.2% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Clause 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 30.7% |
| Calculation Base | CIF Value |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:6112.39.00.10 β USITC:13.2% β USMCA/301:7.5% β Clause 122:10% |
π Note:
- This code covers knitted swim shorts made from non-synthetic materials (e.g., cotton blends, viscose, or other textile fibers not classified as synthetic). - While the base rate is lower (13.2%), the total tax (30.7%) remains high due to surcharges. - Material Declaration is Critical: Misdeclaring cotton as synthetic could lead to penalties.
π― 3. 6211.11.80.10 β Menβs Woven Swim Shorts (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 7.5% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Clause 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 25.0% |
| Calculation Base | CIF Value |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:6211.11.80.10 β USITC:7.5% β USMCA/301:7.5% β Clause 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This is a "catch-all" for menβs woven swim shorts that do not fit the specific synthetic fiber definition of6211.11.10.10. - Lowest total tax among textiles (25.0%) makes this a favorable category if the material allows. - Warning: Do not force woven garments into this category if they are made of synthetic fiber; use6211.11.10.10instead (45.3%).
π― 4. 6211.11.10.10 β Woven Swim Shorts (Synthetic/Man-Made Fiber)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 27.8% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Clause 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 45.3% |
| Calculation Base | CIF Value |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:6211.11.10.10 β USITC:27.8% β USMCA/301:7.5% β Clause 122:10% |
π Warning:
- This is the most expensive category (45.3%) in the provided data. - Applies to woven swim shorts made from nylon, polyester, or other synthetic fibers. - Even though woven garments are often less protected than knitted ones in some contexts, the 27.8% base rate here is punitive. - Strategy: Consider if the product can be redesigned as knitted (6112series) or if the material can be changed to natural fibers (if feasible for swimwear) to qualify for lower rates.
π― 5. 3926.90.99.89 β Plastic/Synthetic Swimwear Articles
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.3% |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +7.5% |
| Clause 122 Surcharge | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax | 22.8% |
| Calculation Base | CIF Value |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3926.90.99.89 β USITC:5.3% β USMCA/301:7.5% β Clause 122:10% |
π Important Clarification:
- This code is for non-textile swimwear articles (e.g., PVC-coated garments, rubber swim trunks, or plastic-based accessories). - Do not misclassify textile swim shorts as plastic to save taxes. Customs may inspect fabric composition and reject the entry. - Only use this if the product is not made of woven/knitted textile fabric.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Fabric Composition Label | βοΈ | Must clearly state material % (e.g., 80% Polyester, 20% Spandex) |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show fabric texture (knitted vs. woven) and construction |
| β Technical Data Sheet | βοΈ | Confirm if fabric is stretchable (knitted) or structured (woven) |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Accurate description: "Menβs Knitted Swim Shorts, Synthetic Fiber" |
| β Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Essential for verifying origin and applying surcharges correctly |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Mnemonic)
π₯ βKnit vs. Woven, Synthetic vs. Other, Tax Range 22%β45%!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Tax Rate | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knitted + Synthetic | 6112.31.00.10 |
43.4% | High Tax |
| Knitted + Cotton/Viscose | 6112.39.00.10 |
30.7% | Medium Tax |
| Woven + Synthetic | 6211.11.10.10 |
45.3% | Highest Tax |
| Woven + Other Material | 6211.11.80.10 |
25.0% | Lower Tax |
| Plastic/Rubber Item | 3926.90.99.89 |
22.8% | Low Tax (if accurate) |
π Critical Tips:
- Fabric Test: If unsure, request a fabric swatch test to confirm knitting vs. weaving. - Material Declaration: Be precise. "Synthetic Fiber" is not enough; specify "Polyester" or "Nylon" if required. - Avoid Misclassification: Never declare woven polyester shorts as "plastic" (3926) to save taxes. This is fraud and leads to seizures.
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Material Swim Shorts | Classify based on principal material or use the heading that gives the most specific description. For swimwear, Chapter 61/62 overrides Chapter 39 unless itβs entirely non-textile. |
| OEM/Private Label | Ensure the supplierβs invoice matches the HS code description exactly. |
| Sample Shipments | Even samples are subject to these tariffs. Do not assume "no commercial value" exempts you from proper HS classification. |
| Retroactive Claims | If you misclassified in the past, consider applying for a Post Summary Correction (PSC) to potentially reduce duties and penalties. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Outlook)
| Market | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Tax (CN Origin) | Key Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6112.31.00.10 / 6211.11.10.10 |
43.4% β 45.3% | FCC (if electronic), FDA (if coated) | High tariffs due to Section 301 + Clause 122 |
| π¨π³ China (Import) | 6112.31.00.10 |
~25% (Base) | CCC (if applicable) | No Section 301 surcharge |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6112.31.00.10 |
12β16% (Standard) | CE, REACH | No "122 Clause" equivalent |
| π¬π§ UK | 6112.31.00.10 |
12β16% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply |
π Conclusion:
- The USA market is the most expensive for swim shorts due to the additive nature of Base + Section 301 + Clause 122 tariffs. - Cost Optimization: Consider sourcing from countries with FTA benefits (e.g., Vietnam, Mexico) if available, to avoid Section 301 surcharges. - Product Design: If possible, design swim shorts using knitted structures (6112) rather than woven (6211) if synthetic materials are unavoidable, as the tax burden may be similar but the market perception differs.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring woven polyester shorts as knitted to avoid the 27.8% base rate of 6211.11.10.10
π Consequence: Customs inspection reveals woven structure β Penalty + Back Taxes + Delay
β Mistake 2: Declaring textile swim shorts as plastic articles (3926) to get the 22.8% rate
π Consequence: Rejection of entry β Goods seized or returned β Reputation damage
β Mistake 3: Not specifying fabric composition on the invoice
π Consequence: Customs assigns a default (higher) tariff β Unexpected high costs
β Mistake 4: Assuming all swim shorts have the same HS code
π Consequence: Tax rate variance from 22.8% to 45.3% β Profit margin erosion
β Correct Approach:
βMenβs Knitted Swim Shorts, 85% Polyester/15% Spandex, Lining: 100% Nylon, Color: Blue, Size: Mβ
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ βKnit or Woven? Synthetic or Other? Tax Ranges 22%β45%!β
πΉ βHS Code is King, Tariff Difference is Critical, One Wrong Step Costs Thousands!β
π Pro Tip:
- If your swim shorts are made of recycled polyester, check if any green tariff incentives apply in specific markets.
- Always apply for a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) or Advance Ruling if you are shipping large volumes. This locks in the classification and protects you from future audits.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Fabric Swatches + Request HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Ensure Smooth Customs Clearance, Maximize Profit Margins, and Expand Your Global Reach!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Tax Saved is Pure Profit!
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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.