HS 961511 Combs, hair-slides and the like
Quick Answer: Combs, hair-slides, and the like imported under HS 961511 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at 14.4¢/gross + 2% (MFN). This classification covers a wide array of hair-securing and styling implements, including combs made of any material, hair-slides, barrettes, and similar accessories. Importers should note the specific US duty structure, which combines a specific duty (per gross unit) with an ad valorem (percentage of value) component, and the existence of preferential duty-free entry for certain trade partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates and potential trade agreements for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9615110000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9615110000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 961511 | — | — | — |
| 9615111000 | 14.4¢/gross + 2% | Free (17 programs) | ["gross"] |
| 9615112000 | 5.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["gross"] |
| 9615113000 | 28.8¢/gross + 4.6% | Free (17 programs) | ["gross"] |
| 9615114000 | 5.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
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 9615.11?
Imports of Combs, hair-slides and the like 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, GSP, 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 961511 cover?
This subheading covers combs, hair-slides, and similar articles designed for arranging or styling hair. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes items made from any material, such as plastic, metal, or wood, intended for personal grooming. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to articles primarily functioning as hair accessories, excluding those with additional functionalities like integrated mirrors or lights.
What falls outside HS 961511?
The following products are excluded from HS 961511: articles that are primarily decorative and not functional for hair styling, such as purely ornamental hair clips without a securing mechanism, or hair ornaments that are not designed to hold or arrange hair. Additionally, items like brushes (classified under 9603) or hairpins that are more akin to fasteners rather than styling accessories may fall under different headings. Items with integrated electrical components, such as heated combs, are also excluded and classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 961511?
A common error is misclassifying hair accessories that incorporate other functionalities. For instance, a comb with a built-in mirror might be incorrectly classified under 961511 instead of a more appropriate heading that accounts for the primary function or the most significant component. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are presented in sets, they should be classified according to the material or component that gives them their essential character. Importers may also mistakenly classify decorative hair clips that do not serve a functional hair-arranging purpose.
How should importers classify products under HS 961511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 961511 involves a thorough examination of the article's primary function and material. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official HS Nomenclature, national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and relevant Explanatory Notes. If the item is a comb, hair-slide, or a similar article for arranging hair, and it does not possess a dominant characteristic of another heading, then 961511 is likely appropriate. Always consider the material and intended use to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 961511?
A set of 12 plastic hair clips, declared at a customs value of $50 USD, would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50 USD × 0.07 = $3.50). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 9615.11.0000. Note that specific rates can vary based on country of origin and trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 961511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 961511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible hair accessories originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, often requiring a GSP Form A. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also allows for duty-free entry for originating goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 961511, covering combs and hair-slides?
The import duty rates for HS code 961511 vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, goods from Chile (CL) may enter duty-free under the US-Chile Free Trade Agreement. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC's HTS or the EU's TARIC database, for precise rates applicable to your origin country.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 961511 when a specific rate per unit is involved?
Some duty calculations for HS code 961511 combine an ad valorem rate with a specific rate based on quantity. For example, a hypothetical rate might be $1.44 per gross plus 25% ad valorem. If you import 10 gross of combs valued at $500, the duty calculation would be: ($1.44/gross * 10 gross) + (25% * $500) = $14.40 + $125.00 = $139.40. Importers and brokers must carefully check the exact calculation method specified in the importing country's tariff.
What are the classification criteria for items falling under HS code 961511?
HS code 961511 covers combs, hair-slides, and similar articles. The key classification criterion is their primary function: to arrange, style, or hold hair. This includes a wide range of items, from simple plastic combs to decorative hair clips and barrettes, provided their main use is for hair. Items that are primarily ornamental and not designed for hair manipulation, or those with other primary functions (e.g., tools), would be classified elsewhere. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 961511?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 961511. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), and various Latin American nations (e.g., Colombia (CO), Peru (PE)) that may offer reduced or zero duty rates. The European Union also has numerous preferential trade agreements. Importers must verify the specific terms and rules of origin for each agreement to claim preferential treatment, often requiring a Certificate of Origin.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 961511?
Standard import documentation for HS code 961511 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin of the goods and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be mandatory. Some countries might require specific product safety declarations or compliance with labeling regulations. Customs brokers should always confirm the precise documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in the UK.