HS Code for Second-hand clothes

HS code 6309.00 is a unique heading designed for "worn clothing and other worn articles." For a product to be classified here, it must meet two primary criteria established by the World Customs Organization and the General Interpretative Rules. First, the articles must show signs of appreciable wear, meaning they are clearly not new and have been used for their intended purpose. Second, they must be presented in bulk, such as in bales, sacks, or similar large-scale packings. This heading covers a wide range of textile items that have been previously owned and used, including garments, footwear, and household linens. The classification is intended to distinguish between the trade of new garments (which are classified by material and type in Chapters 61 and 62) and the secondary market for used textiles. This distinction is crucial for trade statistics and the application of specific tariffs or import restrictions that many countries place on used goods to protect local industries or for sanitary reasons. If the clothing is used but sold as individual high-value vintage items in a retail setting without bulk packaging, customs authorities may occasionally challenge the use of 6309.00, potentially reclassifying them under their respective headings for new clothing.

Products Included

• Used shirts, trousers, and coats in bales
• Worn footwear packed in bulk sacks
• Used blankets and household linens
• Worn headgear and accessories
• Used curtains and textile furnishings
• Bulk shipments of mixed used apparel

Common Misclassification

Second-hand clothes are often misclassified under the headings for new clothing in Chapters 61 (knitted) or 62 (not knitted), such as 6109.10 for T-shirts. This usually happens if the items do not show sufficient wear or are not packed in bulk. Another misclassification is 6310.10, which is for used rags or scrap textile; 6309.00 is for articles that are still recognizable as clothing, whereas 6310 is for material intended for recycling or industrial wiping.

FAQ

What is the HS code for second-hand clothes?

The correct HS code is 6309.00, provided the items are worn and packed in bulk.

Does this code include used shoes?

Yes, used footwear is included in 6309.00 as long as it shows signs of wear and is shipped in bulk containers or bales.