HS 611231 Men's or boys' swimwear
Quick Answer: Men's or boys' swimwear imported under HS 611231 enters the UK at 8.00% or 12.00%, the EU at 8.00% or 12.00%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 90% or 25.9% depending on the country of origin. This HS code specifically covers knitted or crocheted swimwear for males, including trunks, briefs, and similar garments. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations, particularly the high US rates for certain origins, and consult specific tariff schedules for precise classification and duty assessment. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of origin and trade agreements for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6112310000 | — | — | — |
| 6112311000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 6112319000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6112310000 | — | — | — |
| 6112311000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 6112319000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61123100 | 25.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 6112310010 | — | — | ["doz.","<u>kg</u>"] |
| 6112310020 | — | — | ["doz.","<u>kg</u>"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 6112.31?
Imports of Men's or boys' swimwear may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 12 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 611231 cover?
This subheading covers men's or boys' swimwear, specifically knitted or crocheted garments designed for swimming. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items like swim trunks, briefs, and jammers. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further clarify that these garments must be made from textile materials and intended for recreational or competitive swimming activities, excluding general sportswear.
What falls outside HS 611231?
The following products are excluded from HS 611231: swimwear for women or girls (classified under 611241), general athletic shorts not specifically designed for swimming (often classified under 611211 or 611212 depending on material and construction), and cover-up garments worn over swimwear. Additionally, items made from non-knitted or non-crocheted fabrics, such as woven shorts, would be classified elsewhere, typically under HS Heading 6211.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 611231?
A common error is misclassifying swimwear made from non-textile materials or those that are not specifically designed for swimming. For instance, general sports shorts made of polyester that are not intended for water immersion might be incorrectly classified here. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 611231?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 611231 involves a thorough examination of the garment's design, intended use, and material composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and compare the product's characteristics against the descriptive notes for Heading 6112 and Subheading 611231. Verifying if the garment is knitted or crocheted and specifically designed for swimming is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 611231?
A pair of men's knitted polyester swim trunks weighing 0.15 kg and declared at a customs value of $25.00 USD would attract a US duty of $1.88. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 12.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($25.00 USD × 0.125 = $3.13). However, if the specific tariff item has a "per unit" component, for example, $0.125 per kg, the duty would be $0.01875 ($0.125 × 0.15 kg = $0.01875). The actual duty would be the higher of the two. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 611231?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 611231, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers Free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also provides preferential rates for member countries. Documentation required to claim preference under USMCA typically involves a self-certified origin statement, while CPTPP may require a certificate of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 611231 (Men's or boys' swimwear)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 611231 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others may be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
How is the import duty for men's or boys' swimwear (HS 611231) calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS 611231 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if men's swimwear is imported into the US with a declared customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 8.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 \times 0.08 = $800. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the duty calculation method and rate in the destination country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for men's or boys' swimwear under HS code 611231?
HS code 611231 specifically covers swimwear for men or boys that is knitted or crocheted. Key classification criteria include: 1. Garment Type: Must be designed and marketed as swimwear (e.g., swim trunks, briefs, jammers). 2. Gender/Age: Intended for men or boys. 3. Fabric Construction: Must be made from knitted or crocheted fabric. Items made from woven fabric would fall under a different HS code (e.g., 6211.11 for men's or boys' woven swimwear). 4. Material: While not explicitly defining the material, the 'knitted or crocheted' aspect is paramount. Common materials include nylon, spandex, polyester, and blends.
What documentation is typically required when importing men's or boys' swimwear (HS 611231)?
Standard import documentation for HS code 611231 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, proof of origin is required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This could be a certificate of origin or a declaration of origin on the invoice, depending on the specific agreement and the importing country's regulations. For textiles, some countries may also require specific declarations regarding fiber content and country of manufacture.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for men's or boys' swimwear (HS 611231)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS 611231, significantly reducing or eliminating import duties. Examples include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico if rules of origin are met. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also provides preferential rates for member countries. Additionally, bilateral agreements like the one between the US and South Korea (KORUS FTA) can impact duties. Importers must ensure the swimwear originates from a qualifying country and meets the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to benefit from these reduced rates.