HS 621111 Swimwear
Quick Answer: Swimwear imported under HS 621111 enters the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.00%, and the US with a range of rates, including 90% and 27.8% under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, with duty-free entry available for certain Free Trade Agreement partners. This code specifically covers garments designed for swimming, such as swimsuits, bikinis, and trunks, for both men and women. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations, particularly in the US market, and verify specific preferential rates. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate declaration and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6211110000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6211110000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 621111 | — | — | — |
| 62111110 | 27.8% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 6211111010 | — | — | ["doz.","<u>kg</u>"] |
| 6211111020 | — | — | ["doz.","<u>kg</u>"] |
| 6211114000 | 4% | Free (15 programs) | ["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 6211.11?
Imports of 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 14 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 621111 cover?
This subheading covers swimwear, specifically garments designed for swimming. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes articles of apparel, knitted or crocheted, or made up from knitted or crocheted fabrics, intended for swimming. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses items such as bathing suits, bikinis, swim trunks, and tankinis, typically made from elastic, quick-drying materials.
What falls outside HS 621111?
The following products are excluded from HS 621111: general-purpose athletic apparel not specifically designed for swimming, such as running shorts or t-shirts, even if made from similar materials. Additionally, undergarments, outerwear like cover-ups, and specialized aquatic sports gear such as wetsuits for diving are classified elsewhere. For instance, wetsuits are typically found under HS code 6113.00 or 6211.33, depending on their construction.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 621111?
A common error is misclassifying garments that are similar in appearance but not exclusively designed for swimming. For example, athletic shorts made from quick-dry fabric might be mistakenly entered under 621111 if their primary function is not swimming. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers must ensure the garment's intended use and design align with the specific definition of swimwear.
How should importers classify products under HS 621111?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 621111 involves a detailed examination of the garment's design, intended use, and material composition. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They must verify that the item is specifically manufactured and marketed for swimming activities, distinguishing it from general athletic wear or other apparel categories.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 621111?
A pair of women's knitted swimwear (bikini top and bottom) weighing 0.15 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $7.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 15% × $50.00 = $7.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 6211.11.10.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 621111?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 621111, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also allows for Free entry for qualifying goods between the EU and the UK. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 621111 (swimwear)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 621111, covering swimwear, can vary significantly by country. For example, in the United States, the rate is 12.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 12.00% ad valorem. However, specific rates can be higher in some jurisdictions; for instance, a rate of 90% ad valorem has been observed in certain trade contexts, and other rates like 27.8% ad valorem are also possible. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. Sources like the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the US, the EU's TARIC database, and the UK's Trade Tariff provide detailed information.
How is the import duty for HS code 621111 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 621111 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if swimwear is imported into the United States with a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 12.00%, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (customs value) × 0.12 (duty rate) = $1,200. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the exact duty calculation method in the destination country's tariff.
What are the classification criteria for swimwear under HS code 621111?
HS code 621111 specifically covers 'Track suits, ski-suits and swimwear, knitted or crocheted' and 'Track suits, ski-suits and swimwear, of other textile materials'. The key classification criterion is the garment's intended use as swimwear, designed for swimming or water sports. This includes items like bikinis, swim trunks, one-piece swimsuits, and tankinis. The material composition (e.g., knitted, woven, or other textile materials) is also a factor. Garments that are merely suitable for swimming but not specifically designed as such may fall under different HS codes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing swimwear from other types of apparel.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 621111, and what is the typical outcome?
Numerous trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in 'Free' entry or significantly reduced tariffs for HS code 621111. Examples of countries or regions that may benefit from preferential rates under specific agreements include 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. For instance, under certain free trade agreements (FTAs), the duty rate could be 0% ad valorem. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration on the invoice.
What documentation is typically required for importing swimwear under HS code 621111?
Standard documentation for importing swimwear under HS code 621111 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. Depending on the importing country and whether preferential duty rates are claimed, additional documents may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to prove the goods' country of origin, especially if claiming benefits under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Some countries might also require specific import licenses or permits, or compliance with safety standards related to textile labeling (e.g., fiber content, care instructions). Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete to facilitate smooth clearance.