HS Code 62.16 – Gloves, mittens and mitts (not knitted or crocheted)

HS code 6216 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Gloves, mittens and mitts (not knitted or crocheted). Heading 6216 specifically classifies "Gloves, mittens and mitts (not knitted or crocheted)" within Chapter 62. This category is dedicated to hand coverings made from woven textile fabrics, designed for protection, warmth, fashion, or specific tasks. The crucial distinction for this heading is that the articles must *not* be knitted or crocheted; such items are classified under Chapter 61. This heading encompasses a wide array of materials, including cotton, linen, silk, wool, and synthetic fabrics, and can include gloves with minor non-textile components (e.g., a small leather palm patch on a woven glove). The scope covers various types, from formal dress gloves to lightweight work gloves (where the essential character is woven textile). Accurate classification is vital for trade compliance, as it determines applicable tariff rates, import quotas, and specific labeling requirements. The trade in gloves reflects both functional needs across industries and evolving fashion trends. Historically, gloves have served diverse purposes, from ceremonial wear to occupational safety. Their classification within Chapter 62 underscores their identity as finished textile apparel accessories, distinguishing them from gloves made entirely of other materials (like leather or rubber) or from raw textile forms. Understanding this heading is essential for importers, exporters, and customs professionals dealing with this significant segment of apparel and protective gear.

Cotton dress gloves, polyester fashion gloves, satin opera gloves, driving gloves (woven textile), gardening gloves (woven textile, minimal coating), formal gloves (woven), costume gloves (woven), sun protection gloves (woven), lightweight linen gloves, thin nylon gloves, children's woven gloves, military dress gloves (woven), parade gloves, textile oven mitts (primarily woven), welding gloves (if main body is woven textile), golf gloves (woven upper), cycling gloves (woven back), fishing gloves (woven textile), canvas work gloves, denim gloves, twill gloves, fine silk gloves, rayon gloves.

The most common misclassification for articles under 6216 is confusing them with their *knitted or crocheted* counterparts, which are correctly classified under Chapter 61 (e.g., knitted wool gloves would be in 6116). The 'not knitted or crocheted' clause is the primary differentiator. Another frequent error involves gloves made *entirely* of leather or composition leather, which belong in Chapter 42. If a glove has significant plastic or rubber components that give it its essential character (e.g., fully rubberized work gloves), it might incorrectly be placed in 6216 instead of Chapter 39 (plastics) or 40 (rubber). Careful examination of the predominant material and construction method is crucial to avoid misclassification.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 6216 in UN Comtrade data were China ($429M, 35% of world exports), Vietnam (about $172M) and France ($80M). World exports came to about $1.2B, 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 6216 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($256M, 21% of world imports), France ($123M) and Germany ($97M). World imports came to about $1.2B, 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 6216 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (62) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (16) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.