sport socks
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6115940000 | 28.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115966010 | 36.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6111206050 | 25.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6117809510 | 32.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6117909080 | 32.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 6115959000 | 31.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
𧦠Sport Socks (Knitted/Crocheted)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Sport Socks"?
Sport socks are essential textile accessories designed for athletic activities, providing cushioning, moisture wicking, and support. In international trade, they are primarily classified under Chapter 61 (Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories, Knitted or Crocheted).
The classification depends heavily on the material composition (cotton vs. synthetic/blends) and the specific target group (children vs. adults).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the socks are Cotton-based (especially for children), they often fall under specific subheadings like 6115.94 or 6111.
- If the material is unclear, blended, or synthetic, they may fall under broader "Other" categories like 6115.96, 6117, or 6115.95.
- Note: All codes below assume origin in China and import into the USA, subject to significant additional tariffs.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material/Type |
|---|---|---|---|
6115.94.00.00 |
Other men's or boys' socks, knitted/crocheted | Adult/Child sport socks; material unspecified but consistent with "socks" | Generic/Knitted |
6115.96.60.10 |
Other women's or girls' socks, knitted/crocheted | Women's/Girls' sport socks; material unspecified | Generic/Knitted |
6111.20.60.50 |
Children's cotton sport socks | Explicitly Cotton + Sport + Children | β Cotton |
6117.80.95.10 |
Other made-up accessory articles of apparel | Children's cotton sport socks classified as "Accessories" | β Cotton |
6117.90.90.80 |
Other made-up accessory articles of apparel | Children's cotton sport socks classified as "Other Accessories" | β Cotton |
6115.95.90.00 |
Other women's or girls' socks, knitted/crocheted | Unspecified material socks (often used for general sport socks) | Inferred Cotton/Blend |
π Important Reminder:
- Cotton vs. Non-Cotton: Codes like6111.20.60.50and6117.80/90explicitly mention Cotton. If your socks are not primarily cotton (e.g., polyester, nylon), these codes may be incorrect.
- Gender Specificity: Codes like6115.94(Men's/Boys') and6115.96/95(Women's/Girls') are gender-specific. Misclassification here can lead to audits.
- "Accessory" vs. "Socks": Sometimes sport socks are classified under Chapter 6117 (Accessories) if they are considered part of a uniform or specific apparel set, though Chapter 6115 is more common for standalone socks.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 6115.94.00.00 ββ Men's/Boys' Socks (Unspecified Material)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 11.3% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 28.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6115.94.00.00 |
π Explanation:
- This is a standard "Other Men's/Boys' Socks" category.
- The 28.8% total rate is significant. Importers must account for this in cost calculations.
- Note: If the socks are confirmed Cotton, other codes might offer slightly lower base rates but similar surcharges.
π― 2. 6115.96.60.10 ββ Women's/Girls' Socks (Unspecified Material)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 18.8% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 36.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 36.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6115.96.60.10 |
π Note:
- Women's/Girls' socks generally have a higher base tariff (18.8%) than men's/boys' socks (11.3%).
- Total rate of 36.3% makes this one of the higher-cost categories for Chinese textile imports.
π― 3. 6111.20.60.50 ββ Children's Cotton Sport Socks
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 8.1% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 25.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.6% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6111.20.60.50 |
π Explanation:
- This code explicitly requires Cotton material.
- It has the lowest base tariff (8.1%) among the listed options.
- Total rate: 25.6%. If your product is indeed cotton children's sport socks, this is likely the most cost-effective classification.
π― 4. 6117.80.95.10 ββ Children's Cotton Sport Socks (Accessory Category)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 14.6% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 32.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 32.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6117.80.95.10 |
π Note:
- Classified under Chapter 6117 (Accessories).
- Also requires Cotton.
- Total rate: 32.1%. Higher than6111.20.60.50due to a higher base tariff.
π― 5. 6117.90.90.80 ββ Children's Cotton Sport Socks (Other Accessories)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 14.6% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| > Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 32.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 32.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6117.90.90.80 |
π Note:
- Similar to6117.80.95.10, but under a different subheading for "Other" accessories.
- Total rate: 32.1%. Ensure you are not misclassifying standard socks as "accessories" if they fit better under Chapter 6115.
π― 6. 6115.95.90.00 ββ Women's/Girls' Socks (Other/Unspecified)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 13.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | 7.5% |
| > Section 122 Surcharge | 10% |
| Total Rate | 31.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 31.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| > Legal Basis Path | Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% β USITC:6115.95.90.00 |
π Note:
- Used for women's/girls' socks that don't fit other specific subheadings.
- Total rate: 31.0%. Lower than6115.96.60.10(36.3%) but higher than men's/boys' socks (28.8%).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Missing Any = Risk)
| Document | Mandatory | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must include material composition (e.g., "80% Cotton, 15% Polyester, 5% Spandex"), size, and intended use (e.g., "Running Socks"). |
| β Material Declaration | βοΈ | Critical for distinguishing between 6111 (Cotton) and 6115/6117 (Other). Misstatement here leads to penalties. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images showing labels, logos, and structure. Helps customs verify "Sport" features. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Knitted Sport Socks" and specify Cotton Content if claiming 6111 or 6117 codes. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detailed count of pairs, sizes, and weights. |
| β Origin Certificate (if applicable) | βοΈ | Not applicable for China origin (no FTA benefits for most textiles), but required for proof of origin. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Material First, Gender Second, Purpose Clear, Tax Saved!"
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Children's Cotton Sport Socks | 6111.20.60.50 (Lowest Base) |
Declare as 6117.80.95.10 β Higher Tax (32.1% vs 25.6%) |
| Men's Generic Sport Socks | 6115.94.00.00 |
Declare as 6115.96.60.10 β Higher Tax (28.8% vs 36.3%) |
| Women's Synthetic Socks | 6115.96.60.10 or 6115.95.90.00 |
Declare as 6111.20.60.50 β False Declaration (Penalty) |
| Socks as Part of a Uniform Set | 6117.80.95.10 (if classified as accessory) |
Declare as standalone 6115 code β Potential Re-classification |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM/Private Label | Provide brand authorization and design specs to avoid "Generic" disputes. |
| Mixed Material (e.g., 50% Cotton/50% Polyester) | Check Chapter 61 Notes. If cotton is not the predominant fiber by weight, it may NOT qualify for 6111 (Cotton-specific). It might fall under 6115 or 6117. |
| "Sport" Feature Claim | Ensure the socks have typical sport features (cushioned heel/toe, moisture-wicking labels). If they look like dress socks, customs may re-classify them, leading to delays. |
| De Minimis (Section 321) | β Not Applicable. All these HS codes are subject to Section 301 and Section 122 surcharges, so shipments under $800 will still be taxed. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 6111.20.60.50 (Best for Cotton) |
25.6% (Lowest Base) | None for socks | High surcharges (17.5%) apply to all. |
| π¨π³ China | 6111.20.60.50 |
~10-12% (Import) | None | Domestic trade has lower VAT impact. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 6111.20.60.50 |
0% (Most Favored Nation) | REACH, Oeko-Tex | No Section 301/122 equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 6111.20.60.50 |
0% (Post-Brexit FTA) | UKCA | Check for specific textile labeling laws. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 6111.20.60.50 |
5% | ACCC Labeling | No major surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 (7.5%) and Section 122 (10%) surcharges.
- EU/UK/Australia offer significantly lower tariffs, making them more attractive for price-sensitive markets.
- Cotton content is key in the US for minimizing the base tariff, even though surcharges remain.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Claiming "Cotton" for blended socks to get a lower base rate.
π Consequence: Customs audit β Back taxes + Penalties + Potential seizure.
π Solution: Accurately test and declare material composition.
β Mistake 2: Misidentifying gender (e.g., declaring men's socks as women's).
π Consequence: Wrong HS Code β Higher Tax (36.3% vs 28.8%) β Overpayment.
π Solution: Match packaging and marketing to the declared gender.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring "Section 122" and "Section 301" in cost calculations.
π Consequence: Profit margin erosion.
π Solution: Always add 17.5% (7.5% + 10%) to the base tariff for Chinese imports to the US.
β Mistake 4: Using "Socks" as a generic description without material details.
π Consequence: Customs holds shipment for material verification.
π Solution: Provide a Material Declaration Letter with every shipment.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Knitted Cotton Sport Socks for Children, 80% Cotton, 15% Polyester, 5% Spandex, Model XYZ, Pack of 12"
HS Code:6111.20.60.50
Total Tariff: 25.6%
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Cotton Children First (25.6%), Men Second (28.8%), Women Last (31-36.3%)."
πΉ "Material Dictates Code, Gender Dictates Subheading, Surcharge is Constant (17.5%)."
π Pro Tip:
If your socks are not made in China (e.g., Vietnam, Bangladesh), you may avoid Section 301 and Section 122 surcharges, reducing the total rate to just the Base Tariff (e.g., 8.1% for cotton children's socks).
Consider supply chain diversification if targeting the US market heavily.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker + Provide Material Test Reports + Apply for Pre-Ruling (ISF/ACE) if high volume.
π Ensure Accurate Material Declaration to avoid costly audits.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every percentage point of tariff matters in the textile trade!
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.