Product classification
HS code for Handkerchief: 6213.90
Handkerchiefs, of textile materials other than cotton (not knitted or crocheted).
Classification of handkerchief under HS 6213.90
The classification of handkerchiefs under HS code 6213.90 is determined by the material composition and the method of construction. Chapter 62 of the Harmonized System encompasses articles of apparel and clothing accessories that are not knitted or crocheted. Within this chapter, heading 6213 is specifically dedicated to handkerchiefs. While 6213.20 covers those made of cotton, the subheading 6213.90 is a residual category for handkerchiefs made from other textile materials, such as silk, linen, or synthetic fibers. To qualify for this code, the item must be a square or rectangular piece of cloth, typically used for personal hygiene or as a decorative clothing accessory like a pocket square. The edges must be finished, usually by hemming or rolling, to distinguish the finished product from a simple piece of cut fabric. Because these items are woven rather than knitted, they are excluded from Chapter 61. Furthermore, they must not exceed 60 centimeters on any side; if they do, they may be classified as scarves or shawls under heading 6214. The classification is strictly for textile handkerchiefs; paper-based alternatives are classified in Chapter 48.
- Covers
- Silk pocket squares for men's suits
- Linen handkerchiefs with embroidered borders
- Synthetic fiber handkerchiefs
- Woven decorative textile squares under 60cm
- Hemp or ramie handkerchiefs
- Also under 6213.90
- Drake's silk pocket squares
- Frette linen handkerchiefs
- Zegna silk handkerchiefs
- Ted Baker pocket squares
- Irish Linen handkerchiefs
Codes often confused with 6213.90
Common mistake. Handkerchiefs are frequently confused with cotton versions under 6213.20. It is vital to verify the fiber content through laboratory testing or manufacturer specifications. They are also often misclassified under 6214.90 (scarves and shawls) if the dimensions are not carefully measured; any item exceeding 60cm per side is no longer a handkerchief in the eyes of customs. Additionally, knitted handkerchiefs must be classified under 6117.80, as Chapter 62 only covers woven goods. Finally, paper handkerchiefs fall under 4818.20 and should never be declared under textile codes.
Top exporters and importers of HS 621390 (the code used for handkerchief), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 621390 (the code used for handkerchief) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 47% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 21% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 621390, not only handkerchief.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $34M 47% of world exports
- 2 France $14M 19% of world exports
- 3 Italy $11M 14% of world exports
World total: $73M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $13M 21% of world imports
- 2 Japan $5.9M 9.3% of world imports
- 3 France $4.0M 6.2% of world imports
World total: $64M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for handkerchief
Brazil splits HS 6213.90 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 6213.90.10Silk handkerchiefs, not knitted
- 6213.90.90Handkerchiefs of other textiles, not knitted
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about handkerchief
What is the HS code for Handkerchief?
The HS code for Handkerchief is 621390 (Handkerchiefs; of textile materials other than cotton (not knitted or crocheted)). The HS code for handkerchiefs made of textile materials other than cotton (and not knitted) is 6213.90.
How do I classify Handkerchief for customs?
Handkerchief is classified under HS code 621390 — Handkerchiefs; of textile materials other than cotton (not knitted or crocheted). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
How do I distinguish a handkerchief from a scarf for customs?
According to the HS Explanatory Notes, a handkerchief must not exceed 60 centimeters on any side. If any side is longer than 60cm, the item is classified as a scarf or shawl under heading 6214.
Which countries are the top exporters of handkerchief (HS 621390)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 621390 (the code used for handkerchief) in UN Comtrade data were China ($34M, 47% of world exports), France ($14M) and Italy ($11M). World exports came to about $73M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of handkerchief (HS 621390)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 621390 (the code used for handkerchief) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($13M, 21% of world imports), Japan ($5.9M) and France ($4.0M). World imports came to about $64M, 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.
Is the HS code for Handkerchief the same in all countries?
The base HS code 621390 for Handkerchief is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for handkerchief in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 621390 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for handkerchief depends on the product's details: 6213.90.10 (Silk handkerchiefs, not knitted), 6213.90.90 (Handkerchiefs of other textiles, not knitted).