HS Code 62.12 – Brassieres, girdles, corsets, braces, suspenders, garters and similar articles and parts thereof; whether or not knitted or crocheted

HS code 6212 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Brassieres, girdles, corsets, braces, suspenders, garters and similar articles and parts thereof; whether or not knitted or crocheted. Heading 6212 encompasses a crucial category of intimate apparel and support garments, specifically "Brassieres, girdles, corsets, braces, suspenders, garters and similar articles and parts thereof; whether or not knitted or crocheted." This heading is unique within Chapter 62 (Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories, Not Knitted or Crocheted) because it explicitly includes items that are *either* knitted *or* crocheted, alongside those made from woven fabrics. This broad scope ensures that almost all forms of brassieres, girdles, corsets, and related support wear, regardless of their textile construction method, fall under this specific classification. The scope extends to parts of these articles, such as bra cups, straps, or corset boning, provided they are identifiable as such. This classification is vital for trade compliance as it dictates tariff rates, import quotas, and specific labeling requirements that often apply to intimate apparel, which can be subject to consumer safety and modesty regulations. Historically, the trade in these items has been significant, driven by fashion trends, evolving bodywear technologies, and global manufacturing shifts. Its inclusion in Section XI, "Textiles and Textile Articles," underscores its origin from textile materials, distinguishing it from medical or orthopedic devices classified elsewhere. Understanding the precise boundaries—especially the 'whether or not knitted or crocheted' clause—is paramount to avoid misclassification and ensure smooth international trade operations for importers, exporters, and customs professionals dealing with this significant segment of the apparel industry.

Underwire brassieres, sports bras, push-up bras, full-coverage bras, strapless bras, control-top girdles, waist cinchers, shapewear corsets, bridal corsets, men's suspenders, women's garters, garter belts, bra extenders, bra straps, corset boning, posture support braces (textile), maternity support belts, shaping briefs, longline bras, minimizer bras, silicone bra inserts, adhesive bras, bustiers, camisoles with built-in bras, lace brassieres, seamless girdles, satin corsets.

A common mistake is confusing articles in 6212 with those in Chapter 61. While 6212 explicitly covers items 'whether or not knitted or crocheted,' other apparel items in Chapter 62 are strictly 'not knitted or crocheted.' If a trader misclassifies a knitted sports bra under a general knitted apparel heading in Chapter 61, it might lead to incorrect duties or regulatory oversight, even though 6212 is the specific home for such an item. Another error involves classifying supportive garments with a primary therapeutic function (e.g., certain medical braces) under 6212, when they should properly fall under Chapter 90 (Medical, Surgical, etc. Instruments and Apparatus). Lastly, parts of these articles might be incorrectly classified as general textile accessories in Chapter 63 if their specific function as a component of an article in 6212 is not recognized.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6212 in UN Comtrade data were China ($4.4B, 35% of world exports), Vietnam (about $1.5B) and Bangladesh (about $752M). World exports came to about $12.4B, 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 6212 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.1B, 19% of world imports), Germany ($918M) and Japan ($711M). World imports came to about $10.9B, 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.

HS code 6212 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (62) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (12) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.