Guide to HS Codes & Tariff‑Classification for Apparel Imports into U.S./Europe

What are HS / HTS codes in apparel imports

HS (Harmonized System) codes are internationally standardized six-digit product classification codes used to categorize apparel for customs, tariffs, and trade statistics. HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes are country-specific extensions of HS codes, such as the U.S. 10-digit system, which provide more detailed classification for import and export regulations.

In our experience working with apparel importers, understanding HS and HTS codes is a fundamental step in ensuring smooth customs clearance and accurate tariff application. These codes affect costs, compliance, and trade efficiency.

Definition and Purpose of HS and HTS Codes

HS codes are standardized six-digit codes developed to classify goods internationally, facilitating customs procedures and trade analysis across over 200 countries.

HTS codes extend HS codes with additional digits, reflecting country-specific tariff, regulatory, and statistical needs. For example, the U.S. uses 10-digit HTS codes for more precise classification.

• For apparel, these codes ensure consistent categorization of garment types.
• Impact duties, compliance, and customs clearance outcomes.
• Errors in code selection can increase costs or cause delays.

Structure and Classification of Apparel HS/HTS Codes

• HS codes consist of 6 digits: first 2 for chapter, next 2 for heading, last 2 for subheading.
• U.S. HTS codes expand HS codes to 10 digits, adding four country-specific digits for fine tariff distinctions.
• Apparel primarily falls under:
  • Chapter 61: Knitted or crocheted apparel
  • Chapter 62: Non-knitted apparel
  • Chapter 63: Other made-up textiles

Example: HS code 6109.10 covers cotton knitted T-shirts; the U.S. HTS 6109.10.00.20 specifies cotton T-shirts with greater detail.

Benefits and Risks of Accurate HS/HTS Classification

Factor	Impact	Icon
Accurate classification	Correct tariff application, avoiding overpayment with textile tariffs ranging from 0% 이상으로 30%.	✅
Strong governance	Reduces duty rates by an average of 3.2%, boosting supply chain cost efficiency.	🚀
Misclassification	About 30% of apparel imports face coding errors, delays, and penalties; U.S. retailers fined over $2.3 million.	⚠️
Proper coding	Supports leveraging free trade agreements and smoother customs clearance.	✅

Critical Perspective on HS/HTS Code Management

• HS codes are not fixed or universal — they are updated and require product-specific reviews.
• Fabric treatments, coatings, and smart textiles can change classification and duty rates.
• Robust governance for HS/HTS assignment improves compliance and tariff advantages.
• Proactive classification avoids costly penalties and delays in global apparel trade.

Why classification matters (duties, compliance, customs)

Correct classification of apparel imports using HS codes directly determines the duties owed, compliance with customs regulations, and risk of costly penalties or shipment delays. ~ 안에 2025, U.S. customs duty collections reached $113 10억 in just the first nine months, underscoring the financial impact of accurate tariff classification.

Accurate HS code classification is more than a paperwork formality — it directly shapes the financial, legal, and operational outcomes of apparel imports into U.S. and European markets.

Impact on Duties: Tariffs and Financial Implications

Tariff rates influence the landed cost of apparel products, and even small percentage changes can have a major impact on profitability. 우리의 경험에 따르면, failing to monitor updated rates results in sudden cost spikes for importers.

📊 Metric	값
U.S. Customs Duty Revenue through August 2025	$146 10억
Revenue (first 9 months FY2025)	$113 10억
Average effective U.S. tariff rate (July 2025)	9.75% (up from 2.2% in January)
Tariff rate on imports from Canada (Aug 2025)	35%
Postal shipments from China/Hong Kong	54% tariff or $100 flat fee per item

Compliance Requirements and Risks of Misclassification

Both U.S. Customs and European authorities require precise classification to avoid penalties or audits. This applies equally to commercial shipments and e‑commerce parcels.

• Shipments with a daily importer value above $800 need formal entry and duty payment.
• Misclassification penalties range from fines equal to 2–4× the duty loss to possible criminal charges.
• Heightened enforcement in 2025 aimed at curbing de minimis threshold abuses.

Customs Enforcement and Operational Impact

HS codes are not only about tax — they also trigger rules under trade agreements and quotas. Incorrect entries can result in costly clearance delays.

• Classification ensures compliance with agreements like USMCA.
• Wrong HS codes can cause shipment holds and delays at border checkpoints.
• Misclassified or transshipped goods may be charged additional duties up to 40%.
• Faster clearance supports uninterrupted supply chain flow and reduces loss.

Common Misconceptions and Expert Advice

Many importers assume garments with similar appearance share the same HS code, but fabric type, intended gender category, and garment construction alter classification and duty rates.

• Duty rates may more than double depending on how items are classified.
• Regularly consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and request binding rulings when uncertain.
• Train internal teams or employ external audits to safeguard against errors.

Common HS / HTS codes for apparel (U.S./EU)

The most common HS (Harmonized System) and HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes for apparel in the U.S. and EU are found in Chapters 61 (knitted or crocheted apparel), 62 (woven apparel), 그리고 63 (other made-up textile articles), with further classification by garment type, fiber content, and intended user. The U.S. uses a 10-digit HTS code, while the EU typically uses an 8-digit CN code, both based on the international 6-digit HS structure.

Apparel importers operating in the U.S. and EU must understand how HS, HTS, and CN codes define product categories for customs clearance. These codes influence duties, compliance requirements, and shipment processing speed.

Overview of HS/HTS Codes for Apparel

우리의 경험에 따르면, apparel HS codes follow the international 6-digit standard, while the U.S. expands to 10 digits for HTS and the EU applies 8-digit Combined Nomenclature codes. Each chapter groups products by construction method.

• Chapter 61: Knitted or crocheted apparel (예를 들어, T-shirts, sweaters).
• Chapter 62: Woven apparel (예를 들어, trousers, suits).
• Chapter 63: Other textile articles (예를 들어, home textiles, worn clothing).
• Codes also specify garment type, fiber content thresholds (≥85% rule), and end user category.

Common HS/HTS Codes for Key Apparel Categories

Garment	HS Code	U.S. HTS Code	EU CN Code
👕 T-shirts, 면, knitted	6109.10	6109.10.00.10	6109.10.00
👖 Men’s trousers, 면, woven	6203.42	6203.42.40.00	6203.42.31
🧥 Sweaters, 면, knitted	6110.20	6110.20.20.00	6110.20.91
👙 Brassières	6212.10	6212.10.90.00	6212.10.00
♻️ Worn clothing & used textiles	6309.00	6309.00.00.00	6309.00.00

Importance of Accurate Classification

Accurate classification helps importers avoid penalties, shipment delays, and incorrect duty payments. Misclassifying knitted and woven garments can trigger higher tariffs and compliance issues.

• ⚠️ Factor in fiber content thresholds, such as ≥85% major fiber rules.
• ⚠️ Account for gender and age distinctions in code assignment.
• Consider special treatments like waterproofing or coatings, which can change the code.
• Consult customs brokers for complex blends or technical garments.
• Monitor regular HS code updates to maintain compliance and supply chain stability.

Case studies of mis‑classification cost

Mis-classification of HS codes and tariff categories can lead to significant financial penalties, back payments, customs delays, and legal risks for apparel importers, with recent case studies revealing settlements ranging from thousands to millions of dollars.

In our experience working with apparel imports into the U.S. and Europe, HS code errors can quickly escalate into multi‑million‑dollar liabilities. The following case studies show how both financial and operational risks compound when tariff classification is incorrect.

Financial Impact of Misclassification

📅 Year	⚠️ Case Detail	💰 Financial Outcome
Feb 2025	CBP recovered unpaid duties from 28 audits	$2.9 million collected
Recent Years	CBP ongoing enforcement on HS misclassification	$74.5 million in penalties and duties
Global 2022	Over 65,000 misclassification cases	Billions lost in revenue
2023	Vitamin importer undervaluation and misclassification	Settlement of $22.8 million
2025	California wood flooring importer duty evasion	$8.1 million settlement

These figures underline that even a single misclassification can trigger audits, penalties, and substantial back payments. For apparel, duty variations are smaller per shipment but persistent errors inflate costs over time.

Common Misclassification Scenarios and Their Effects

• Misclassifying leather shoes as textiles can cause duty overpayments of 9% per shipment.
• Incorrect HS codes can shift duty rates by 8% or more (예를 들어, 12% versus 4%).
• A textile importer paid back duties after misclassifying blended garments as 100% 면, triggering audits.
• Minor changes in composition or packaging can reassign HS codes, leading to higher duties or delays.

스포츠웨어 브랜드의 경우, small errors in fabric descriptions—such as mislabeling a polyester‑cotton blend—can alter tariff categories and escalate compliance risks. Regular verification of codes for each SKU prevents hidden duty leakage.

Critical Perspective on Misclassification Risks

• Assuming supplier‑provided codes are correct can cause retroactive duty payments spanning years.
• Treating similar products as sharing the same classification increases audit exposure.
• Customs enforcement is tightening, making proactive compliance essential.
• Investing in classification expertise and review processes prevents fines, shipment delays, and legal challenges.
• Upfront compliance costs are far outweighed by avoiding financial damage and brand reputation loss.

우리의 경험에 따르면 manufacturing and exporting custom sportswear under strict trade compliance, pre‑shipment HS validation has been critical. It ensures apparel reaches markets without the burden of retroactive costs or shipment disruptions.

How to work with supplier/freight‑forwarder to get correct code

To get the correct HS code for apparel imports, suppliers and freight forwarders must collaborate closely, sharing detailed product specifications, technical datasheets, and photos, and verifying codes using official tariff lookup tools or customs brokers.

Accurate HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance when importing apparel into the U.S. or Europe. Importers benefit most when suppliers and freight forwarders keep information flowing at every stage — from order confirmation to final documentation.

Essential Product Information from Suppliers

Suppliers play a critical role in providing the right data for code assignment. 우리의 경험에 따르면, missing or vague product descriptions often result in code errors and delays.

• ✅ Material composition of the apparel items
• ✅ Intended function and end use of the products
• ✅ Technical datasheets detailing fabric and construction
• ✅ High-quality photographs showing product features and design

Having these details ready before production starts allows freight forwarders to check codes early and avoid last‑minute changes.

Verification Tools and Documentation for Freight Forwarders

Freight forwarders are the second checkpoint for ensuring HS code accuracy. They work with commercial and regulatory resources to confirm the classification.

• 💡 Use of official tariff code lookup tools and databases
• 💡 Consultation with customs brokers or legal advisors when uncertain
• 💡 Reviewing commercial invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations
• 💡 Verification ideally completed before shipment during order confirmation

Early verification not only lowers compliance risks but also provides clear documentation for regulators.

Risks of Incorrect HS Code Classification

Misclassification is more than an administrative mistake — it can trigger costly consequences for apparel importers.

• ⚠️ Customs fines and shipment delays
• ⚠️ Loss of eligibility for preferential trade benefits
• ⚠️ Possible seizure or return of goods by customs authorities

Correct classification safeguards against penalties and keeps goods moving through ports without obstruction.

Best Practices for Collaboration and Code Accuracy

Consistent collaboration increases the odds of getting the HS code right on the first try. Both suppliers and freight forwarders should adopt a standard procedure for code checks.

• Maintain clear and continuous communication between supplier and freight forwarder
• Avoid assumptions or using generic codes; always confirm with official resources
• Regularly update tariff codes in line with changes in regulations and trade agreements
• Document every step to minimize mistakes and facilitate customs clearance

When these steps are integrated into daily operations, apparel imports face fewer compliance hurdles and achieve faster clearance times.

Buyer checklist

A comprehensive buyer checklist for apparel imports into the U.S. and Europe should include verifying the correct HS code (6-digit global standard plus country-specific digits), confirming tariff rates, ensuring product documentation matches classification, and checking for country-specific compliance and labeling requirements.

This guide gives apparel importers a clear framework to achieve accurate HS code classification, tariff compliance, and correct documentation when shipping goods into major markets such as the U.S. and Europe.

HS Code Fundamentals

HS codes use a 6-digit global standard to classify products for customs purposes worldwide. The structure is consistent across more than 200 countries, covering over 5,000 commodity groups within 21 sections and nearly 100 chapters.

• ✅ Global standard ensures consistent classification across borders.
• ✅ U.S. expands HS code to 10-digit HTS format for precise tariffs.
• ✅ EU commodity codes range between 8–10 digits for additional classification detail.
• 💡 The Harmonized System covers approximately 98% of world trade.

Required Documentation for Apparel Imports

Accurate and complete paperwork prevents delays, penalties, and compliance issues at customs clearance points.

• Commercial invoice detailing product description and declared value.
• Packing list with contents, weights, and packaging specifications.
• Bill of lading serving as the transportation document.
• Certificate of origin confirming the country of manufacture.
• Product specification sheet validating materials and construction match HS classification.

Tariff Rates and Country-Specific Classification Nuances

Tariff rates change depending on digits added beyond the global HS structure. For instance, the U.S. requires a 10-digit HTS code, while Europe assigns 8–10 digit commodity codes.

• Apparel typically falls under Chapter 61 (Knitted) or Chapter 62 (Non-knitted).
• Misclassification can cause fines, shipment delays, or product seizure.
• Always check the specific penalty rules for each destination country.

Critical Considerations and Best Practices

우리의 경험에 따르면, many importers risk incorrect duties by relying only on the 6-digit global HS level. Using the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) helps resolve disputes in classification.

• Consult customs brokers or trade compliance specialists for complex garment classification.
• Match all shipment documentation to the declared HS code to avoid audits.
• Check destination-specific labeling, safety, and certification requirements before dispatch.
• Non-compliance in labeling or safety standards can halt shipments at the border.

Buyer checklist

Accurate HS code classification, supported by complete product data and aligned documentation, is the cornerstone of smooth apparel imports into the U.S. and European markets. By focusing on precise tariff categorization, confirming all shipment records match declared codes, and staying ahead of regulatory changes, importers avoid costly penalties, shipment delays, and unexpected duty liabilities. This structured approach transforms compliance from a reactive task into a predictable part of your supply chain strategy.

For procurement and logistics teams, embedding these practices into daily operations safeguards margins and strengthens market access. Leveraging reliable supplier input, proactive freight forwarder verification, and regular code reviews ensures that every shipment clears efficiently and capitalizes on trade agreement benefits. The diligence you invest upfront in classification fuels long-term cost efficiency, operational reliability, and competitive edge in global apparel trade.