HS Code 62.05 – Shirts; men's or boys' (not knitted or crocheted)

HS code 6205 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Shirts; men's or boys' (not knitted or crocheted). Heading 6205 specifically covers men's or boys' woven shirts, a critical classification for distinguishing these garments from their knitted counterparts. The 'not knitted or crocheted' criterion is the absolute defining characteristic, separating woven dress shirts, casual button-downs, and work shirts from knitted items like polo shirts or T-shirts, which fall under heading 6105. This heading encompasses a wide variety of styles, from formal business shirts to casual flannel and denim shirts, highlighting the versatility and enduring appeal of woven fabrics in menswear. The scope is focused solely on shirts, making it distinct from other men's apparel such as trousers (6203) or outerwear (6201). For trade compliance, accurate classification under 6205 is crucial for correctly applying import duties, quotas, and rules of origin, directly impacting the cost-effectiveness and legality of international trade. Historically, men's woven shirts have been a cornerstone of global apparel trade, reflecting both professional attire standards and evolving casual fashion trends. As part of Chapter 62, which deals with 'Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted,' this heading underscores the importance of the manufacturing method as a primary classification determinant within Section XI (Textiles and Textile Articles), ensuring clarity and consistency in customs procedures worldwide.

Men's cotton dress shirts, Boys' flannel shirts, Men's linen button-down shirts, Boys' school uniform shirts, Men's denim shirts, Men's oxford shirts, Boys' short-sleeved woven shirts, Men's work shirts (woven), Men's Hawaiian shirts (woven), Boys' plaid shirts (woven), Men's chambray shirts, Men's safari shirts (woven), Boys' casual button-up shirts, Men's tuxedo shirts, Men's striped poplin shirts, Boys' gingham shirts, Men's seersucker shirts, Boys' fishing shirts (woven), Men's military-style shirts (woven), Men's Western shirts (woven), Boys' long-sleeved woven shirts, Men's casual spread collar shirts, Men's checked shirts, Boys' formal shirts, Men's utility shirts

The most common misclassification for HS 6205 is confusing it with knitted men's shirts, such as polo shirts or T-shirts, which fall under heading 6105. The defining difference is the fabric's construction: 6205 is strictly for woven shirts. Another error is classifying women's shirts under 6205; these correctly belong to 6206. Traders must pay meticulous attention to both the 'not knitted or crocheted' criterion and the gender specificity ('men's or boys'') to ensure accurate classification. Incorrectly assigning a knitted garment to 6205 can lead to significant duty discrepancies and customs penalties, highlighting the importance of precise textile identification.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6205 in UN Comtrade data were Bangladesh (about $2.6B, 19% of world exports), China ($2.1B) and Vietnam (about $1.2B). World exports came to about $13.9B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 6205 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.7B, 22% of world imports), Germany ($1.0B) and France ($666M). World imports came to about $12.5B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 6205 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (62) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (05) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.