HS Code for Tennis racquets

Tennis racquets are classified under HS code 9506.51. This classification is found in Chapter 95, which covers toys, games, and sports requisites. Heading 9506 is the broad category for articles and equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, other sports, or outdoor games. Within this heading, the 9506.5x series is dedicated to rackets for tennis, badminton, or similar sports. Subheading 9506.51 is specifically for \"lawn-tennis rackets.\" According to the Explanatory Notes, this classification applies regardless of the material of the frame (e.g., aluminum, carbon fiber, graphite, or wood) and regardless of whether the racquet is imported strung or unstrung. The term \"lawn-tennis\" is the traditional nomenclature used in the HS to distinguish standard tennis from other racquet sports like squash or table tennis. The classification remains the same for professional-grade equipment and recreational racquets intended for adults or children, provided they are not clearly toys.

Products Included

• Strung lawn-tennis racquets
• Unstrung tennis racquet frames
• Professional carbon-fiber tennis racquets
• Aluminum recreational tennis racquets
• Junior-sized tennis racquets for competitive play

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification for tennis racquets is using HS code 9506.59, which is the residual category for \"other\" rackets, such as those for badminton, squash, or racquetball. Another error occurs with table tennis paddles, which are classified under 9506.40. Occasionally, very small, lightweight plastic racquets sold in toy stores may be classified as toys under 9503.00, though most functional sports equipment remains in 9506. Additionally, separate shipments of tennis strings (gut or synthetic) are not classified here; they are classified by material, such as 5404 for synthetic monofilament or 4206 for catgut.

FAQ

What is the HS code for tennis racquets?

The specific HS code for lawn-tennis racquets, whether strung or unstrung, is 9506.51.

Are the strings included in the racquet's HS code?

If the racquet is imported already strung, the entire unit is classified under 9506.51. If strings are imported separately, they are classified under their respective material codes.