Women's Bra

👙 Women's Bra (Lingerie & Underwear)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Compliance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Women's Bra"?

A Women's Bra is a foundational undergarment designed for breast support, shaping, and comfort. In international trade, it is primarily classified under Chapter 61 (Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted) or Chapter 62 (Non-knitted). The specific HS Code depends heavily on the knitted vs. non-knitted distinction and the material composition (natural fibers vs. synthetic/man-made).

⚠️ Key Classification Point:
- Knitted/Crocheted Bras: Typically fall under Heading 6108 (Women’s or girls’ slip-ons, panties, nightdresses, pyjamas, bathrobes, dressing gowns and similar articles). Note: While 6108 covers "panties" and "nightdresses," in many customs jurisdictions, bras are often grouped here if they are considered "similar articles" or specifically listed under subheadings for lingerie, OR under 6212 (Brassieres, girdles, corsets, braces, suspenders, garters and similar articles and parts thereof) if non-knitted. - Synthetic Fiber Content: The material type significantly impacts the tariff rate, especially with additional duties like Section 301 or 122 tariffs.

📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)

Based on the provided data, we are looking at Knitted/Lingerie-style Bras falling under Heading 6108. The variation in tax rates is driven by material inference (likely synthetic vs. natural) and additional tariff policies.

🔍 Critical Distinction:
- 6108.91.00.15 vs 6108.92.00.15: The key difference is the material. Code ...91 often applies to other textiles or natural fibers, while ...92 is explicitly for man-made fibers (polyester, nylon, spandex blends). - 6107.11.00.10: Although titled "Knitted Underwear" (often associated with panties), it is included in the data as a valid classification for bras in certain contexts (likely due to structural similarity or local customs interpretation of "close-fitting knitted underwear"). It has a slightly lower base rate.

💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Policy Context: Includes Base Tariff + Section 301 (25%) + Section 122 Tariff (10%)

🎯 1. 6108.91.00.15 —— Lingerie (Mixed/Natural Fiber Assumption)

📌 Explanation:
- The 10% Section 122 Tariff is a critical addition for Chinese-origin textiles/apparel. - The 8.5% Base Tariff applies to this specific subheading. - Total: 18.5%. This is a moderate duty level but still significant for low-margin apparel.

🎯 2. 6107.11.00.10 —— Knitted Underwear (Bra/Tight Category)

📌 Note:
- This is the lowest tax option among the three, provided the bra is classified strictly as "knitted underwear" rather than "bra" under 6108.92. - Use this code only if the product strictly fits the definition of knitted panties/tights-like structure to avoid misclassification penalties.

🎯 3. 6108.92.00.15 —— Lingerie (Synthetic/Man-Made Fiber)

📌 Warning:
- This is the highest tax rate due to the 16% Base Tariff (higher for synthetic textiles) + 7.5% Section 301 + 10% Section 122. - Most bras made of polyester/nylon/spandex blends will fall here. - Impact: This significantly erodes profit margins. Must be factored into pricing strategies.

🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)

✅ 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)

✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)

🔥 "Material Defines Tax, Section 122 is Always On!"

✅ 3. Special Circumstances

🌍 V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026)

📌 Conclusion:
- The USA is the most challenging market for Chinese apparel due to Section 122 (10%) and Section 301 (7.5%) add-ons. - Total landed cost can increase by ~33.5% just in tariffs. - Strategy: Consider duty drawback if re-exporting, or supply chain diversification if volumes are high.

📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)

❌ Error 1: Declaring all bras under 6107.11.00.10 to save taxes
👉 Consequence: If customs determines the product is a "bra" and not "panties," they will reclassify to 6108.92.00.15 → Back taxes + Interest.

❌ Error 2: Ignoring the Section 122 Tariff
👉 Consequence: Underpayment by 10% on every shipment. Customs audits will catch this → Large fines.

❌ Error 3: Vague fiber composition ("Mixed Fabric")
👉 Consequence: Customs will apply the highest possible duty rate or require re-inspection → Delays.

✅ Correct Practice:

"Women's Knitted Bra, Polyester 80%, Spandex 20%, Push-up Style, Size M-L, Made in China"

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Cost Optimization!

🎯 Remember:

🔹 "Synthetic Bras Cost 33.5%, Cotton/Mixed Cost ~18%, Knitted Pants Cost ~17%."
🔹 "Section 122 is a 10% Tax Trap for All Chinese Apparel."

📌 Pro Tip:
If your bra contains less than 20% synthetic fiber, you might qualify for a lower base rate, but still subject to Section 122.
For high-volume imports, Apply for an Advance Ruling from CBP to confirm the exact HS Code before shipment.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Consult a Licensed Customs Broker to verify the fiber composition.
📦 Prepare Accurate Commercial Invoices with detailed material breakdowns.
🚀 Optimize Your Landed Cost by choosing the correct HS Code to avoid overpayment or penalties!

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
💼 Your Profit Margin Depends on Your HS Code Accuracy!