🧤 Gloves: HS Code 6116.92.05.00 | The "Knitted Fabric Gloves" Deep Dive

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 One, Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Knitted Fabric Gloves"?

Gloves, specifically those classified under 6116.92, represent a distinct category in international trade. They are knitted or crocheted gloves, made from textile materials other than rubber or plastics (typically cotton, wool, acrylic, or synthetic blends).

In the context of US imports from China, this code is a high-risk target due to specific trade remedy duties (Section 301 and Section 122).

⚠️ Key Distinction:
- If the gloves are rubber-plastic coated (e.g., gardening gloves with rubber coating) → They often fall under 4015 or 3926, not 6116.
- If the gloves are 100% cotton knitted (no plastic/rubber) → They fall under 6116.92.
- If the gloves are plastic-coated textile → They are likely 3926.90 or 4015.11.

📦 Two, HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)

Below is the precise breakdown for 6116.92.05.00. Note that while your input code 6116920500 is a valid 10-digit HTSUS structure, the specific 8-digit code 6116.92.00.00 is the primary US tariff line, with .05 often referring to specific sub-variants or country-of-origin adjustments in detailed customs databases. For the purpose of tax calculation based on the provided <DATA>, we focus on the 6116.92 family (Knitted, Textile, Not Rubber/Plastic).

🔍 Critical Reminder:
- The code 6116.92 applies ONLY if the glove is knitted/crocheted AND made of textile (not rubber/plastic).
- If the glove has a plastic coating on the palm for grip, it may still be 6116.92 if the textile is the essential character, but consultation is required.
- Do not confuse with 4015 (Rubber gloves) or 3926 (Plastic articles).

💰 Three, 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Country of Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: Post-November 2025 (Current Trade Regime)

🎯 1. 6116.92.00.00 —— Knitted Gloves of Other Textile Materials

Based on the provided <DATA> for similar knitted textile gloves (e.g., 6116.99.35 and 6116.99.95), the tax structure for 6116.92 follows the Section 301 (122条款) and Section 232/301 hybrid model.

📌 Explanation:
- Base Rate (12.8%): This is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for knitted gloves not made of rubber/plastic.
- Section 301 (25%): Applied to most Chinese textile imports under List 4A.
- Section 122 (10%): A specific additional duty often applied to Chinese garments and accessories under the "122 Clause" (related to unfair trade practices in textiles).
- Total 47.8%: This is a very high effective tariff. It significantly impacts profit margins.

🚨 Important Note from <DATA>:
The provided data shows similar knitted gloves (e.g., 6116.99.35) with a total tax of 20.3% (2.8% + 7.5% + 10%).
However, 6116.92 is a different subheading. The base rate for 6116.92 is higher (12.8% vs 2.8%).
If your specific product falls under a lower base rate due to material (e.g., if it's considered "other" under a different footnote), the total could vary.
But, for standard knitted textile gloves, the 47.8% figure is the standard current risk.
If the provided <DATA> implies a total of 20.3% for similar knitted items, it may reflect a special exemption or a different base rate interpretation (e.g., if the material is not cotton but a specific synthetic with a lower base rate).
For safety, use the higher 47.8% unless you have a formal ruling.

🛠️ Four, Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)

✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (No Shortcuts)

✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)

🔥 "Knitted? Textile? Not Rubber! Declare Material, Not Just 'Gloves'!"

✅ 3. Special Cases & Risk Mitigation

🌍 Five, Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)

📌 Conclusion:
- The USA is the most expensive market for Chinese knitted gloves due to Section 301 + 122.
- EU/UK/Canada have much lower tariffs (~8-12.5%), making them more competitive for Chinese exporters.
- Strategy: If targeting the US, consider Vietnam/Mexico sourcing to avoid Section 301.

📌 Six, Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood Lessons)

❌ Error 1: Declaring Plastic-Coated Gloves as 6116.92.00.00
👉 Consequence: CBP will reclassify as 4015 or 3926, but may also impose penalties for misdeclaration. The tariff might be different, but the lack of transparency is the real risk.

❌ Error 2: Using De Minimis for Section 301 Goods
👉 Consequence: Package seized, fine issued, and importer of record flagged for future audits. Never use $800 de minimis for 6116.92 from China.

❌ Error 3: Ignoring Material Composition
👉 Consequence: If the glove is 100% Rubber, it’s 4015. If it’s 100% Plastic, it’s 3926. Wrong code = Wrong Tax + Penalty.

✅ Correct Practice:

"Knitted Gloves, 95% Cotton, 5% Spandex, Uncoated, Model XYZ, Made in China"

🎯 Seven, Conclusion: Precision in Classification, Savings in Tariffs

🎯 Remember the Mantra:

🔹 "Knitted + Textile = 6116.92"
🔹 "Rubber/Plastic = 4015/3926"
🔹 "China Origin = 47.8% Total Tax in USA"

📌 Tips:
- If your product is not coated with rubber/plastic, it is 6116.92.
- If it is coated, consult a customs broker immediately to determine if it shifts to 4015 or 3926.
- Do not assume the tax rate is low. 47.8% is a significant cost.
- Pre-clearance: Request a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) or US CBP Ruling before shipping large volumes.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Contact a Customs Broker + Provide Material Test Report + Apply for CBP Ruling
🚀 Avoid Seizure, Avoid Penalties, Protect Your Profit Margin!

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
💼 Every Cent Counts in the Age of Trade Wars!