About HS Code 6213
Heading 6213 specifically covers "Handkerchiefs (not knitted or crocheted)" within Section XI, which pertains to textiles and textile articles. This classification is dedicated to textile squares, typically made from woven fabrics such as cotton, linen, silk, or synthetic blends, primarily used for personal hygiene or as decorative accessories. The crucial distinction for this heading, as with most of Chapter 62, is that the articles must *not* be knitted or crocheted. This excludes items like knitted headbands or scarves, which would fall under Chapter 61. The scope is generally limited to relatively small, square or rectangular pieces of cloth, often hemmed or with rolled edges, designed to be carried or worn. While seemingly simple, accurate classification is important for trade compliance, as it affects applicable tariffs, quotas, and specific labeling requirements that may vary by country. For instance, textile composition and country of origin are critical for determining preferential duty rates under various trade agreements. Historically, handkerchiefs have evolved from essential personal items to fashion accessories (e.g., pocket squares), maintaining their relevance in international trade. This heading neatly categorizes these ubiquitous textile items, ensuring they are distinguished from other made-up textile articles or raw fabrics within the broader textile chapters.
Products Under This Code
Cotton handkerchiefs, linen handkerchiefs, silk pocket squares, embroidered handkerchiefs, plain white handkerchiefs, patterned handkerchiefs, men's handkerchiefs, women's decorative handkerchiefs, children's handkerchiefs, handkerchiefs with rolled edges, handkerchiefs with hemmed edges, printed handkerchiefs, satin handkerchiefs, organic cotton handkerchiefs, vintage style handkerchiefs, monogrammed handkerchiefs, novelty handkerchiefs, hand-dyed handkerchiefs, handkerchiefs for formal wear, synthetic blend handkerchiefs, small textile squares for fashion, handkerchiefs with lace trim.
Real World Examples
An Indian textile manufacturer exports a large volume of plain cotton handkerchiefs to a general merchandise distributor in the United Kingdom, typically via ocean freight. A Chinese factory ships an order of printed polyester handkerchiefs to a budget fashion retailer in the United States, often using containerized shipping. An Italian luxury brand imports high-quality silk fabric from China, then manufactures and finishes silk pocket squares in Milan for re-export to high-end boutiques in Japan and the EU, often utilizing air cargo for speed and security. A Vietnamese textile company provides embroidered linen handkerchiefs to a specialty gift shop chain in Australia, with shipments typically routed through regional ports.
Common Misclassification
Traders often misclassify handkerchiefs if they are knitted or crocheted, which should correctly fall under Chapter 61 (e.g., 6117 for other made-up clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted). The 'not knitted or crocheted' clause is paramount for Chapter 62. Another common error is confusing handkerchiefs with other small textile articles, such as cleaning cloths or dishcloths (often in Chapter 63), which lack the specific characteristics or common usage associated with a 'handkerchief.' If a textile square has significant embroidery that gives it an essential character beyond a simple handkerchief, it might incorrectly be considered under Chapter 58 for embroidered articles, though typically the handkerchief function prevails. Correct classification hinges on material, construction (woven), and primary use.
Subheadings 2
Industry
This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.
Trade Overview
Major exporters of handkerchiefs include China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Turkey, leveraging their extensive textile manufacturing base and competitive pricing. Key importing markets are the United States, the European Union (Germany, France, UK), Japan, and Canada, where there is consistent consumer demand for both everyday and decorative handkerchiefs. Tariffs for these textile items generally benefit from various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from developing countries might receive preferential treatment under Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) schemes. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) also play a significant role, requiring strict adherence to Rules of Origin to qualify for reduced or zero duties, which can greatly impact the competitiveness of imported products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 6213?
HS code 6213 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Handkerchiefs (not knitted or crocheted). Heading 6213 specifically covers "Handkerchiefs (not knitted or crocheted)" within Section XI, which pertains to textiles and textile articles. This classification is dedicated to textile squares, typically made from woven fabrics such as cotton, linen, silk, or synthetic blends, primarily used for personal hygiene or as decorative accessories. The crucial distinction for this heading, as with most of Chapter 62, is that the articles must *not* be knitted or crocheted. This excludes items like knitted headbands or scarves, which would fall under Chapter 61. The scope is generally limited to relatively small, square or rectangular pieces of cloth, often hemmed or with rolled edges, designed to be carried or worn. While seemingly simple, accurate classification is important for trade compliance, as it affects applicable tariffs, quotas, and specific labeling requirements that may vary by country. For instance, textile composition and country of origin are critical for determining preferential duty rates under various trade agreements. Historically, handkerchiefs have evolved from essential personal items to fashion accessories (e.g., pocket squares), maintaining their relevance in international trade. This heading neatly categorizes these ubiquitous textile items, ensuring they are distinguished from other made-up textile articles or raw fabrics within the broader textile chapters.
What products fall under HS code 6213?
Cotton handkerchiefs, linen handkerchiefs, silk pocket squares, embroidered handkerchiefs, plain white handkerchiefs, patterned handkerchiefs, men's handkerchiefs, women's decorative handkerchiefs, children's handkerchiefs, handkerchiefs with rolled edges, handkerchiefs with hemmed edges, printed handkerchiefs, satin handkerchiefs, organic cotton handkerchiefs, vintage style handkerchiefs, monogrammed handkerchiefs, novelty handkerchiefs, hand-dyed handkerchiefs, handkerchiefs for formal wear, synthetic blend handkerchiefs, small textile squares for fashion, handkerchiefs with lace trim.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 6213?
Traders often misclassify handkerchiefs if they are knitted or crocheted, which should correctly fall under Chapter 61 (e.g., 6117 for other made-up clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted). The 'not knitted or crocheted' clause is paramount for Chapter 62. Another common error is confusing handkerchiefs with other small textile articles, such as cleaning cloths or dishcloths (often in Chapter 63), which lack the specific characteristics or common usage associated with a 'handkerchief.' If a textile square has significant embroidery that gives it an essential character beyond a simple handkerchief, it might incorrectly be considered under Chapter 58 for embroidered articles, though typically the handkerchief function prevails. Correct classification hinges on material, construction (woven), and primary use.
Which countries trade the most under HS code 6213?
Major exporters of handkerchiefs include China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Turkey, leveraging their extensive textile manufacturing base and competitive pricing. Key importing markets are the United States, the European Union (Germany, France, UK), Japan, and Canada, where there is consistent consumer demand for both everyday and decorative handkerchiefs. Tariffs for these textile items generally benefit from various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from developing countries might receive preferential treatment under Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) schemes. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) also play a significant role, requiring strict adherence to Rules of Origin to qualify for reduced or zero duties, which can greatly impact the competitiveness of imported products.
How is HS code 6213 structured?
HS code 6213 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (62) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (13) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.