What Every Member of the 

Trade Community Should Know About: 

Classification: 

Apparel Terminology 

under the HTSUS 

AN INFORMED COMPLIANCE PUBLICATION 

JUNE 2008 
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

NOTICE:

This publication is intended to provide guidance and information to the trade community. 

It reflects the position on or interpretation of the applicable laws or regulations by U.S. 

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as of the date of publication, which is shown on 

the front cover. It does not in any way replace or supersede those laws or regulations. 

Only the latest official version of the laws or regulations is authoritative. 

Publication History 

First Issued November 2000 

Reviewed with no Changes January 2004 

Revised May 2005 

Revised July 2006 

Revised June 2008 

PRINTING NOTE: 

This publication was designed for electronic distribution via the CBP website 

(http://www.cbp.gov) and is being distributed in a variety of formats. It was originally set 

up in Microsoft® Word. Pagination and margins in downloaded versions may vary 

depending upon which word processor or printer you use. If you wish to maintain the 

original settings, you may wish to download the .pdf version, which can then be printed 

using the freely available Adobe Acrobat Reader®. 

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

PREFACE 

On December 8, 1993, Title VI of the North American Free Trade Agreement Implementation 

Act (Pub. L. 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057), also known as the Customs Modernization or “Mod” Act, 

became effective. These provisions amended many sections of the Tariff Act of 1930 and 

related laws. 

Two new concepts that emerge from the Mod Act are “informed compliance” and “shared 

responsibility,” which are premised on the idea that in order to maximize voluntary compliance 

with laws and regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the trade community needs to 

be clearly and completely informed of its legal obligations. Accordingly, the Mod Act imposes a 

greater obligation on CBP to provide the public with improved information concerning the trade 

community's rights and responsibilities under customs regulations and related laws. In addition, 

both the trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection share responsibility for carrying out 

these requirements. For example, under Section 484 of the Tariff Act, as amended (19 U.S.C. 

1484), the importer of record is responsible for using reasonable care to enter, classify and 

determine the value of imported merchandise and to provide any other information necessary to 

enable U.S. Customs and Border Protection to properly assess duties, collect accurate 

statistics, and determine whether other applicable legal requirements, if any, have been met. 

CBP is then responsible for fixing the final classification and value of the merchandise. An 

importer of record’s failure to exercise reasonable care could delay release of the merchandise 

and, in some cases, could result in the imposition of penalties. 

Regulations and Rulings (RR) of the Office of International Trade has been given a major role in 

meeting the informed compliance responsibilities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In 

order to provide information to the public, CBP has issued a series of informed compliance 

publications on new or revised requirements, regulations or procedures, and a variety of 

classification and valuation issues. 

This publication, prepared by the National Commodity Specialist Division of Regulations and 

Rulings is entitled "Classification: Apparel Terminology under the HTSUS.” It provides guidance 

regarding the classification of these items. We sincerely hope that this material, together with 

seminars and increased access to rulings of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, will help the 

trade community to improve voluntary compliance with customs laws and to understand the 

relevant administrative processes. 

The material in this publication is provided for general information purposes only. Because 

many complicated factors can be involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a 

ruling under Regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or to 

obtain advice from an expert who specializes in customs matters, for example, a licensed 

customs broker, attorney or consultant. 

Comments and suggestions are welcomed and should be addressed to the Executive Director, 

Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, (Mint Annex), Washington, D.C. 20229. 

Sandra L. Bell 

Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings 

Office of International Trade 

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Apparel Terminology 

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PURPOSE ...................................................................................................7

HOW TO CLASSIFY APPAREL UNDER THE HTSUS ..............................7

NOTES ON GENDER AND AGE ................................................................8

NOTES ON GARMENTS MADE OF MULTIPLE MATERIALS ..................8

NOTES ON SLEEPWEAR...........................................................................9

HOW TO DETERMINE TEXTILE QUOTA CATEGORIES........................10

GLOSSARY OF APPAREL PROVISIONS THAT APPEAR IN THE 

HTSUS.......................................................................................................10

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...................................................................27

The Internet............................................................................................................................... 27 

Customs Regulations ................................................................................................................ 27 

Customs Bulletin....................................................................................................................... 27 

Importing into the United States............................................................................................... 28 

Informed Compliance Publications........................................................................................... 28 

Value Publications .................................................................................................................... 29 

“Your Comments are Important”.............................................................................................. 30 

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Apparel Terminology 

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PURPOSE 

This Informed Compliance Publication provides a brief guide for classifying apparel 

under chapters 61 and 62 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedules of the United States 

(HTSUS), and a glossary of working definitions for the apparel-related provisions that 

appear in those chapters. It is intended as an aid for importers and interested parties in 

determining the appropriate HTSUS classifications for apparel, and thus the rates of 

duty and textile quota categories that correspond to those classifications. 

The first part of this publication presents some general factors to consider when 

classifying apparel. The second part is a “glossary” of specific provisions that appear in 

the HTSUS. 

HOW TO CLASSIFY APPAREL UNDER THE HTSUS 

Within Chapter 61 (which covers, generally, knit apparel) and chapter 62 (generally, 

non-knit apparel), the HTSUS contains descriptive text and 10-digit classification 

numbers for the various kinds of apparel. The first four digits of these tariff numbers 

represent the “headings,” the first six digits represent the “subheading” at the 

international or Harmonized System level, the first eight digits represent the 

“subheading” at the U.S. legal rate line level, and the last two digits of a ten digit 

“subheading” represent the statistical annotation designation in the tariff. The 

provisions generally are broken out by the gender and age of the wearer, by component 

material, and by the specific type of garment or article. 

The first step in classifying under HTSUS is to determine which heading applies. To do 

that, the user should refer to both the heading text (the text that appears in the tariff next 

to the 4-digit heading number) and the legal notes. Legal notes appear at the beginning 

of the tariff, at the beginning of Section XI (which covers apparel and other textiles), and 

at the beginning of the chapters. The heading that provides the most specific 

description should be chosen over headings providing a more general description. The 

next step is to determine the subheading, and then the specific provision within that 

subheading. This publication is intended as an aid in interpreting the terms you 

encounter when going through this process. For a full understanding of how to classify 

under the HTSUS, refer to the Informed Compliance Publication entitled “What Every 

Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: Tariff Classification”.

This publication will not present an exhaustive discussion of the legal notes (Section 

and Chapter Notes) that apply to apparel but will highlight the most significant ones. 

Always refer to the actual text of the HTSUS in order to make proper determinations. 

For additional assistance, search the Customs rulings database to research particular 

issues. This database is available on the Customs web site (www.cbp.gov). Also 

available on that web site are several Informed Compliance Publications related to 

apparel in the “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About:...” 

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

series. These include NAFTA for Textiles and Textile Articles, Marking Requirements 

for Apparel, Fiber Trade Names, Textile & Apparel Rules of Origin, Children's Apparel, 

Gloves, Mittens and Mitts, and Knit to Shape Apparel. 

Another useful source of information for classifying merchandise under the HTSUS is 

the Explanatory Notes. As stated previously, the Explanatory Notes constitute the 

official interpretation of the Harmonized System at the international level. As such, they 

apply at the 4-digit (heading) level and the 6-digit (subheading) level. Although not 

legally binding, the Explanatory Notes should be consulted for guidance and considered 

as persuasive authority in interpreting the Harmonized System. 

NOTES ON GENDER AND AGE 

For purposes of these HTSUS chapters, “babies” are defined as young children of a 

body height not exceeding 86 centimeters. Assuming the outcome is reasonable, this 

equates to a size range of 0-24 months. See HTSUS Chapter 61, Note 6, Chapter 62, 

Note 4, and HQ Ruling 082762 of March 19, 1990. 

Regarding gender, HTSUS Chapter 61, Note 9 and Chapter 62, Note 8 describe the 

manner to determine the sex of the wearer. If a garment has a front opening with a 

directional closure (e.g., buttons), a garment that closes left over right is considered to 

be for men or boys; a garment that closes right over left is considered to be for women 

or girls. This rule holds unless the cut of the garment indicates that it is for the other 

sex. These notes pertain to all garments. 

Garments which cannot be identified as either men's or boys' garments or as women's 

or girls' garments are to be classified in the headings covering women's or girls' 

garments. 

NOTES ON GARMENTS MADE OF MULTIPLE MATERIALS 

Generally, garments made up of fabrics, or garments knit to shape of yarns, containing 

a mixture of two or more textile materials, such as yarns of different fibers or yarns of 

blended fibers, are classified according to the fiber that is in “chief weight.” In other 

words, they are classified according to the fiber that predominates by weight over each 

other single textile fiber. See HTSUS Section XI Note 2 and Subheading Note 2 for 

details. 

A garment that is made of a 50/50 blend of fibers (e.g., 50% cotton, 50% polyester) is 

classified using HTSUS Section XI Note 2(A) and Subheading Note 2(A). It will be 

classified as if it consisted wholly of that one textile material which is covered by the 

heading that occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit 

consideration. However, Customs may elect to check the fiber content via laboratory 

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

analysis at the time of entry. Even a slight variation in the fiber content may result in a 

change of classification, as well as visa and quota requirements. 

A “metallized” yarn is considered to be an “other” textile material rather than a manmade (artificial or synthetic) fiber, for tariff purposes. A yarn that contains any amount 

of metal, no matter how small that amount of metal, is regarded in its entirety as 

“metallized yarn.” Because the entire yarn is considered metallized, its entire weight is 

counted as “other” textile material when making the “chief weight” determination. 

Garments that are made up of multiple components, such as a garment made up of a 

knit and a woven portion, are classified not according to “chief weight” but according to 

which component gives the garment its essential character (HTSUS Section XI 

Subheading Note 2(B)). The essential character may be determined by many factors 

such as the nature of the material, its bulk, quantity, weight or value, or the role of a 

material in relation to the use of the goods.1 For example, a vest whose entire front is 

of knit material and whose back is of woven material will normally be classified as a knit 

vest because the front portion imparts the essential character. 

NOTES ON SLEEPWEAR 

Classification of garments as men's and boys' “nightshirts and pajamas” or “sleepwear” 

of headings 6107 and 6207, or women's or girls' “nightdresses, pajamas and similar 

articles” of headings 6108 and 6208 (hereinafter referred to collectively as “sleepwear”), 

is based upon the principal use in the United States at, or immediately prior to, the date 

of importation of goods of the same class or kind. In determining whether a particular 

garment is sleepwear, the garment itself may be strong evidence of use. However, 

when presented with a garment that is somewhat ambiguous and not clearly 

recognizable as sleepwear, Customs will consider other factors such as environment of 

sale, advertising and marketing, and recognition in the trade of virtually identical 

merchandise. While certain documentation incidental to the purchase and sale of the 

merchandise, such as purchase orders, invoices, etc., will be examined, they may also 

be considered “self serving”. 

Although consideration is given to the way in which merchandise is marketed and sold, 

intimate apparel or sleepwear departments often sell a variety of merchandise besides 

sleepwear and intimate apparel, including garments intended to be worn as outerwear. 

The manner in which an article is sold and marketed is weighed in conjunction with 

other factors such as the physical characteristics of the garment. 

Sleepwear is characterized by a sense of privateness or private activity. On the other 

hand, garments that are not sleepwear may fall into various fashion categories, 

including “loungewear” or “leisure wear,” which are loose, comfortable casual clothes 

that can be worn in a variety of settings. Loungewear may be worn at informal social 

 

1 Consult the Explanatory Notes section on the General Rules of Interpretation for more details on essential character.

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

occasions in and around the home, and for other non-private activities such as watching 

movies with guests, barbecuing at a backyard gathering, doing outside home and yard 

maintenance work, washing the car, walking the dog, etc. Loungewear garments will 

not be classified in the sleepwear headings, but in specific headings for the named 

articles. For example, loungewear shorts will be classified in the headings for shorts. 

Certain garments are also marketed as having multiple uses that may include sleeping. 

Such garments would not be classified as sleepwear, but in the specific headings for the 

named articles. 

HOW TO DETERMINE TEXTILE QUOTA CATEGORIES 

Textile categories used for quota and visa purposes can be determined only after a 

garment is classified under the HTSUS. The applicable three-digit textile quota 

category, if there is one, appears next to the correct 10-digit HTSUS number in the tariff 

schedule, opposite the description, just to the left of the “units of quantity” column. 

The quota and visa status of a given textile quota category will differ depending on the 

country of origin, and is the result of international agreements that are subject to 

frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information, refer to 

the Textile Status Report for Absolute Quotas, an internal issuance of the U.S. Customs 

Service, which is available at the Customs web site at www.cbp.gov. 

GLOSSARY OF APPAREL PROVISIONS THAT APPEAR IN THE 

HTSUS 

The following glossary is not an attempt to define every term that appears in the apparel 

trade. Rather, it defines the apparel-related terms that appear in the HTSUS. In most 

cases the glossary provides definitions for individual garment types, but in some cases 

where several garment types are treated as a group in the tariff and not separately 

broken out, the glossary describes them only as a group. The definitions provided are 

not intended to be definitive, but to serve only as an aid for importers and other 

interested parties. This document is not a substitute for the normal principles of 

classification. 

For reference purposes, immediately after each of the defined terms is a list of 4-digit 

headings to which the given definition applies. The definitions apply only to the 

headings that are listed. 

Many definitions contain cross-references (such as “See also” and “Synonymous with”) 

to other definitions in the glossary. In such cases, review all cross-referenced 

definitions in order to fully understand the terms. 

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June 2008 

Anoraks - See “Anoraks, windbreakers and similar articles”. 

Anoraks, windbreakers and similar articles (6101, 6102, 6113, 6201, 6202, 6210) - 

is a group of garments which includes: 

Jackets, which are garments designed to be worn over another garment, for 

protection against the elements. Jackets cover the upper body from the neck 

area to the waist area, but are generally less than mid-thigh length. They 

normally have a full front opening, although some jackets may have only a partial 

front opening. Jackets usually have long sleeves. Knit jackets (due to the 

particular character of knit fabric) generally have tightening elements at the cuffs 

and at the waist or bottom of the garment, although children's garments or 

garments made of heavier material might not need these tightening elements. 

This term excludes knit garments that fail to qualify as jackets because they do 

not provide sufficient protection against the elements. Such garments, if they 

have full-front openings, may be considered cardigans of heading 6110 (other). 

Ski jackets, which are jackets that, by their general appearance and texture, are 

identifiable as intended to be worn principally for skiing (cross-country or alpine). 

Shirt-Jackets, which are hybrid garments that could be classified as either jackets 

or shirts. For garments that present characteristics of both jackets and shirts, the 

presence of three or more of the following ten criteria would generally indicate a 

jacket (if the result is not unreasonable): 

• Heavy weight shell fabric (for example, 10 ounce or heavier denim). 

• A full or partial lining. 

• Pockets at or below the waist. 

• Back vents or pleats. Also side vents in combination with back seams. 

• A belt or simulated belt or elasticized waist on hip length or longer shirtjackets. 

• Large jacket or coat style buttons, toggles or snaps, a heavy-duty zipper 

or other heavy-duty closure, or buttons fastened with reinforcing thread for 

heavy-duty use. 

• Lapels. 

• Long sleeves without cuffs. 

• A tightening element at the cuffs. 

• A tightening element at the waist or bottom of the garment. 

Note: garments not classified as jackets will not necessarily be classified 

as shirts. 

Padded sleeveless jackets, which meet the jacket definition except for the lack of 

sleeves and the fact that they are made from padded material. 

Garments similar to sweaters with full front openings, which have a sherpa lining 

or a heavy weight fiberfill lining (including quilted linings), that are used to provide 

warmth to the wearer. 

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June 2008 

See also “Suit-type jackets” and “jackets.” 

Bathrobes, dressing gowns, negligees and similar articles (6107, 6108, 6207, 

6208) - is a group of garments worn in the home for comfort, which are inappropriate for 

wear on social occasions in or outside the home. These garments have the following 

physical characteristics: 

1) looseness, 

2) length reaching to the mid-thigh or below, 

3) usually a full or partial front opening, with or without a means of closure. 

Sleeves are usually, but not necessarily, present, as in the case of women’s bath 

wraps (men’s bath wraps, which usually cover only the lower torso, are classified 

in heading 6114 or 6211). 

Bib and brace overalls (6103, 6104, 6203, 6204) - are trouser-like garments with a 

permanently affixed full front bib extending more than six inches above the natural 

waistline (proportionately less for children’s garments) and over-the-shoulder straps 

which are commonly and commercially known as bib and brace overalls. The garments 

do not provide requisite coverage for wear without another outer garment, such as a 

blouse. Illustrations of the types of garments intended to be classified as bib and brace 

overalls may be found in the Explanatory Notes, Section XI, Chapter 61, figures 1 to 5. 

Also included as bib and brace overalls are similar garments that do not cover the knee. 

Blazers -Synonymous with “Suit-type jackets”. 

Blouses and shirts (knit, women’s and girls’) (6106) - are garments designed to 

cover the upper part of the body and extend from the neck area to or below the waist. 

The amount of coverage afforded the wearer includes shoulder, armhole and neckline. 

These garments may have sleeves of any length or no sleeves. They may have a collar 

treatment of any type, including a hood, or no collar. Garments of this heading must 

have a full or partial opening, starting at the neckline. 

This term excludes garments with pockets below the waist, or garments having an 

average of less than 10 stitches per linear centimeter in each direction counted on an 

area measuring at least 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters. This term also excludes 

garments with a ribbed waistband or other means of tightening at the bottom of the 

garment (although to be excluded from this heading, the tightening must be at the 

bottom of the garment, not above, i.e. at the waist). 

Blouses, shirts and shirt-blouses (woven, women’s and girls’) (6206, 6211) - are 

garments designed to cover the upper part of the body and extend from the neck area 

to or below the waist. The amount of coverage afforded the wearer includes shoulder, 

armhole and neckline. These garments may have long sleeves, short sleeves or no 

sleeves. They may have a full or partial opening starting at the neckline, and a collar 

treatment of any type, including a hood, or no collar. They may have either no closure 

as in a pullover or a closure positioned on the front, back, or side. This term also 

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June 2008 

includes overblouses and similar garments which may extend to the mid-thigh area or 

below, and which are frequently slit up the leg. 

Heading 6206 excludes garments with pockets below the waist, a ribbed waistband or 

other means of tightening at the bottom of the garment (although to be excluded from 

heading 6206, the tightening must be at the bottom of the garment, not above, i.e. at the 

waist). Such garments may be classified as blouses, shirts or shirt-blouses in heading 

6211 . 

2

Bodysuits and bodyshirts (6114) - are knit one-piece garments that cover the 

wearer’s torso, that are not included more specifically in headings 6101 - 6113. 

Bodysuits, frequently known as leotards in the trade, are generally form fitting, and 

include unitards, which are leotards with leg and/or arm coverage. Bodyshirts are 

generally a shirt with a long tail that snaps between the legs. 

Braces (6212) - is the British term for suspenders. See also “Suspenders”. 

Brassieres (6212) - are garments worn to mold and/or support the breasts. They 

typically consist of two cups held in place with shoulder straps and elastic in center 

back. Long-line brassieres extend toward the waist and typically have vertical stays 

(boning). Sport bras usually feature wider shoulder straps, two-ply front panels, mesh 

fabric and elasticized bottom bands.3

Breeches - Synonymous with “Trousers”. 

Briefs (6107, 6108, 6207, 6208, 6210) - are tight fitting short underpants with an elastic 

top worn by men and boys. The term also includes women's or girls' very short panties. 

See also “Panties”. 

Capes - See “Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar garments”. 

Carcoats - See “Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar garments”. 

Cloaks - See “Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar garments”. 

Coats - See “Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar garments”. 

Corsets and corset belts. (6212) - are support garments usually reinforced with 

flexible metallic, whalebone or plastic stays. They are generally fastened by lacing or 

hooks (corselettes - combinations of girdles or panty-girdles and brassieres). Now they 

 

2 paraphrased from Explanatory Notes for heading 6206

3 Adapted from Calasibetta, Charlotte Mankey, Fairchild's Dictionary of Fashion, Fairchild Publications, New York, N.Y., 2nd Edition, 

Revised 1998, pg. 61. 

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June 2008 

are made with lighter-weight elasticized fabric. Note: heading 6212 does not include 

corsets and belts made wholly of rubber (heading 4015). 

Coveralls - See “Coveralls, jumpsuits, and similar apparel”. 

Coveralls, jumpsuits, and similar apparel (6114, 6211) - are knit or woven garments 

that combine a shirt and trousers in a one-piece garment and cover the body from the 

neck and shoulder area to the knee or below, and provide sufficient coverage to be 

worn alone without another outerwear garment.

Disposable briefs and panties designed for one time use (6108, 6210) - are throwaway underpants often made from spun bonded (non-woven) man-made fibers such as 

nylon or polypropylene (heading 6210). They also may be made from paper (4818) or 

knit fabric. 

Divided skirts - See “Skirts and divided skirts”. 

Dress shirts (woven) (6205) - are shirts designed for wear on business or social 

occasions when some degree of formality is required. They have collar and sleeve 

sizes stated in inches in men's sizes, and in years or months in boys' sizes. For men's 

sizes, the collar size is specific (i.e., 15, not 15-15 1/2) while the sleeve length may be a 

combination such as 32-33 or 34-35, consistent with trade practice. Short sleeve dress 

shirts will usually show a single collar size, perhaps with an explanatory phrase such as 

“half sleeve.” Also see the definition for “Two or more colors in the warp and/or the 

filling.” See also “Shirts (woven, men’s and boys’)”. 

Dresses (6104, 6111, 6204, 6209) - are one-piece garments for women or girls, 

covering the top of the body and extending to the mid-thigh vicinity and below. Fashion 

trends have also produced dresses of shorter length. Dresses are appropriate for wear 

without other outer garments, and their lower end encloses both legs in a single “tube” 

(rather than in two, as trousers do). Garments that are similar to divided skirts in that 

they have the appearance of a dress from the front but are not a single tube, but two 

tubes, are not classified as dresses. They are generally classified in provisions for other 

garments. 

Dressing gowns - See “Bathrobes, dressing gowns, negligees, and similar articles”. 

Ensembles (6103, 6104, 6203, 6204) - are sets of garments (other than suits and 

articles of headings 6107, 6108, 6109, 6207 or 6208) composed of several pieces made 

up in identical fabric, put up for retail sale. An ensemble consists of one garment 

designed to cover the upper part of the body (with the exception of pullovers, which may 

form a second upper garment in the sole context of twin sets, and waistcoats which may 

also form a second upper garment); and one or two different garments, designed to 

cover the lower part of the body and consisting of trousers, bib and brace overalls, 

breeches, shorts (other than swimwear), a skirt or a divided skirt. The upper body 

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

garment may be a jacket consisting of three or more panels (of which two are at the 

front) sewn together lengthwise. 

All of the components of an ensemble are of the same fabric construction, style, color 

and composition; they also are of corresponding or compatible size. The term 

“ensemble” does not apply to track suits or ski-suits of headings 6112 and 6211. 

“Jackets or blazers” for ensembles may have an outer shell (exclusive of sleeves, and 

facings or collar) that consists of three or more panels sewn together lengthwise, two of 

which are at the front. 

Fourchette (6116, 6216) - is a term that refers to the “strip or shaped piece used for the 

sides of the fingers of a glove”.4

 

Garters (6212) - refers to three different types of articles: 

1) bands of elastic, usually worn below the knee to hold up hose; 

2) elastic supporters attached to a girdle or belt, used to hold up stockings; 

3) round elasticized bands worn around the sleeve to shorten it. 

Girdles/panty girdles (6212) - are garments normally worn next to the skin, which are 

designed to mold the lower torso and sometimes legs. They are typically made with 

two-way stretch fabric or one-way stretch fabric with non-stretchable control panels, with 

or without garters.5

 Panty girdles are girdles with a closed crotch, and resemble 

panties. 

Gloves (6116, 6216) - are “covering[s] for the hand[s] having separate sections or 

merely separate openings for each of the fingers and thumb and often extending part 

way up the arm and made of various materials either with or without snap or button or 

other fastening at the wrist and used to protect the hand against cold or intense heat or 

irritation or superficial injury or to avoid contamination or as an apparel accessory”.6 

Includes ice hockey, field hockey, ski, snowmobile and other gloves specially designed 

for use in sports, if made of textile material. 

Imported as parts of playsuits (6103, 6104, 6105, 6106, 6110, 6203, 6204, 6205, 

6206) - is a term that refers to a children’s garment that is imported as one component 

of a “two-piece playsuit”. A two-piece playsuit consists of certain conforming pants, 

overalls or shorts and an upper body garment such as a shirt or blouse, which have 

physical characteristics (such as straps matched with shoulder loops, or buttons 

matched with buttonholes) designed to structurally connect the two garments when they 

are worn. They are connected in such a way that the wearing alone of a component, 

especially the lower body garment, is not practicable. 

Jackets - See “Suit-type jackets” and “Anoraks, windbreakers and similar articles”. 

 

4 Webster’s 3rd New International Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, Inc., Springfield, Mass., 1986, pg. 898. 

5 Adapted from Calasibetta, op cit, pg. 247.

6 Websters, op cit, pg. 967.

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June 2008 

Judo, karate and other martial arts uniforms (6203, 6204) - are garments used in the 

Oriental arts of self-defense or combat and consist of loose fitting top and pants, usually 

of matching fabric and color, that are worn with a sash belt. The top generally has long 

sleeves and a wrap around full front opening secured by a sash, or a V-neck with side 

slashes. The pants are elasticized or drawstring waist and generally have no fly 

opening. The term “martial arts” is limited to the Asian styles of weaponless and armed 

fighting.7

Jumpers (6114, 6211) - are women’s and girls’ knit or woven one-piece sleeveless 

garments similar to dresses, but due to insufficient coverage such as oversized arm 

openings, they require another outer garment such as a shirt, blouse or other upper 

body garment. 

Jumpsuits - See “Coveralls, jumpsuits and similar apparel”. 

Knit to Shape (6110) - for the purposes of statistical reporting under those heading 

6110 provisions which cite Chapter 61 Statistical Note 6, means garments knit to shape 

on flat-knitting machines, having a stitch count exceeding 9 stitches per 2 centimeters, 

but less than or equal to 18 stitches per 2 centimeters, measured on the outer surface 

of the fabric, in the direction in which the stitches are formed. For purposes of 

Statistical Note 6, in the instances where both knit and purl stitches are usually counted, 

the purl stitches will be disregarded, and only the knit stitches on the outer surface of 

the fabric will be counted. All of the garment's components, which include, but are not 

limited to, collars, plackets, cuffs, waistbands and pockets, are knit to shape. All of the 

components are assembled by looping and linking, including the side seams. 

Mittens (6116, 6216) - are “covering[s] for the hand[s] and wrists having a separate 

section for the thumb only and made in various designs and materials for warmth and 

protection.” This also includes those mittens specially designed for use in sports. 8

Mitts (6116, 6216) - are “women’s dress glove[s] leaving the fingers uncovered, often 

extending to or above the elbow, and made of dressy material (as lace, net or silk)”. 

The term also refers to “a baseball catcher’s glove with heavy padding and a separate 

section only for the thumb; a first baseman’s glove with a padded palm, thumb and one 

or two finger sections; a protective mitten used in punching bag practice; a device of 

cloth or similar material shaped to wear over the hand”.9

 Mitts designed for use in 

sports are classified in 6116 or 6216 only if they are made from textile material. Note: 

dust mitts, wash mitts and oven mitts are not considered apparel or accessories to 

apparel (therefore not classified in chapter 61 or 62).

Negligees - See “Bathrobes, dressing gowns, negligees and similar articles”. 

 

7 Encyclopedia Americana, Grolier Inc., Danbury, Conn., 1989, volume 18, page 376. 8 Websters, op cit, pg. 1448 

9 Webster's, op cit, pg. 1448 

16
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Nightshirts and pajamas (men’s and boys’) (6107, 6207) - is a group of garments 

that are worn to bed for sleeping. Pajamas consist of two components covering the 

upper and lower torso. The upper part may be a pullover or shirt, and the lower part 

may be shorts or pants. The lower part sometimes encloses the feet. Nightshirts are 

long one-piece shirt-style or pullover-style garments, worn to bed for sleeping. Men’s 

and boys’ sleep tops and bottoms imported separately may be classified in the separate 

“sleepwear” provisions of heading 6107 or 6207, as appropriate. Refer also to the 

introductory note entitled “Notes on Sleepwear.” See also “Sleepwear (men’s and 

boys’)”. 

Nightdresses, pajamas and similar articles (women’s or girls’) (6108, 6208) - is a 

group of garments worn to bed for sleeping. Pajamas consist of two components 

covering the upper and lower torso. The upper part, may be a pullover or shirt style, 

with long, short or no sleeves and a lower part, short, intermediate, or long trouser-like 

garments or of any style panties. The lower part sometimes encloses the feet. Onepiece garments worn to bed for sleeping are also classified in the subheading for 

nightdresses and pajamas. Refer also to the introductory note entitled “Notes on 

Sleepwear”. 

The classification of women’s sleepwear separates is dependent on their condition as 

imported. Women’s sleepwear (pajama) tops and (pajama) bottoms, if imported in the 

same shipment in equal numbers of tops and bottoms that match as to design, style, 

coloring and size, would be classified as pajamas. However, such garments imported 

separately (shipments of only tops or only bottoms) or if imported as extra components 

without a matching top or bottom in a shipment, are classified in the “similar articles” 

(i.e., “other”) provisions of this group. Classification of sleepwear separates in this 

manner is contingent on the garments first meeting the requirements of sleepwear. 

Overalls and coveralls (6210)- See “Bib and brace overalls” and “Coveralls, jumpsuits, 

and similar apparel”. 

Overcoats - See “Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar coats”. 

Overcoats, carcoats, capes, cloaks and similar garments (6101, 6102, 6201, 6202) 

- is a group of outerwear garments which cover both the upper and lower parts of the 

body, and which are normally worn over other garments for warmth and protection from 

the weather. Overcoats and carcoats are thigh length or longer, with sleeves, with or 

without a means of closure, and with a full-front opening. 

 

This group also includes capes, which are sleeveless outerwear garments worn for 

warmth and protection from the weather. They generally have front and back coverage 

that extends to the waist or below, and side coverage that extends to the elbow or 

below. Capes hang loosely from the shoulders, usually have slits for arms and cover 

the back, shoulders and arms, and may or may not have a full-front opening.10

 

10 adapted from Pickens, Mary Brooks, The Fashion Dictionary, revised, Funk & Wagnalls, New York, N.Y., 1973, pg. 56 

17
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

This group excludes capelets of heading 6117, whose front and back coverage falls 

above the waist, or whose side coverage does not extend to the elbow. 

Pajamas - See “Nightdresses, pajamas and similar articles” and “Nightshirts and 

pajamas”. 

Panties (6108, 6208) - are women’s and girl’s short underpants having no leg portion, 

and fitted snugly at the waist or hips.11 The term also includes bikini, hipster and thong 

style underwear. 

Petticoats (6108, 6208) - are undergarments for a woman or girl similar to a slip, but 

starting at the waist.12

Playsuits (babies’) (6111, 6209) - are one-piece, abbreviated garments designed to be 

worn alone as informal attire for casual wear use, with shirt type coverage above the 

waist and shorts type coverage below the waist. They are similar in construction to 

sunsuits and washsuits. See also “Sunsuits, washsuits and similar apparel (babies’)”. 

Playsuits (other than babies’) - See “Imported as parts of playsuits” and “Sunsuits, 

washsuits, one-piece playsuits and similar apparel”. 

Pullovers (6110, 6111) - are upper body knit garments without a full length opening, 

which are pulled over the head and are not more specifically provided for elsewhere in 

chapter 61. 

 

Raincoats (6201, 6202) - are woven garments primarily designed for protection against 

rain. The water repellency which makes coats suitable as rainwear may be the result of 

the use of rubber or plastic material or may be the result of treating the fabric with a 

water repellent substance; the latter method is usual. 

Shirts (women’s) - See “Blouses and shirts (knit, women’s and girls’)” and “Blouses, 

shirts and shirt-blouses (woven, women’s and girls’)”. 

Shirts (woven, men’s and boys’) (6205) - are outer garments worn against the body 

or over underwear for appearance in public. They are designed for use as conventional 

attire both indoors and outdoors. Their length extends from the neck and shoulder 

areas to or below the waist. Shirts have a full or partial front opening, which closes left 

side over right side, and may have long or short sleeves. They may have a collar 

treatment of any type. Shirts may have rib knit waistbands provided that the garments 

do not exhibit the character of a windbreaker, and they may have pockets below the 

waist provided that the garments do not exhibit the character of jackets of heading 

6203. This term excludes sleeveless garments, which are normally classified in 

heading 6211. See also “Dress shirts”. 

 

11 adapted from Calasibetta, op cit, pg. 411.

12 adapted from Calasibetta, op cit, pg. 430.

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Shirts (knit, men’s and boys’) (6105) - are outer garments worn against the body or 

over underwear for appearance in public. They are designed for use as conventional 

attire both indoors and outdoors. Their length reaches from the neck area to the vicinity 

of the waist but may extend as far down as the area of the mid-thigh. They have a full 

or partial opening starting at the neckline, and have sleeves of any length. They may 

have a collar treatment of any type, including a hood, or no collar. The bottoms are 

usually hemmed; however, they may be finished otherwise to prevent unraveling; the 

bottom does not have a tightening (ribbing, drawstring etc.). This term excludes 

garments with pockets below the waist, or garments having an average of less than 10 

stitches per linear centimeter in each direction counted on an area measuring at least 

10 centimeters by 10 centimeters. 

Shorts (6103, 6104, 6203, 6204) - are trousers which do not cover the knee or below. 13

Singlets (athletic-type shirts) (6109, 6111) - are sleeveless, close fitting garments, 

with narrow shoulder straps, which are usually constructed of a fine knit material. This 

British term is not commonly used in the United States. 

Ski ensembles (6112, 6211) - are sets of garments composed of two or three pieces, 

put up for retail sale and comprising: one garment, such as an anorak, windbreaker or 

similar article, closed by a slide fastener (zipper), possibly with a waistcoat in addition, 

and one pair of trousers whether or not extending above waist level, one pair of 

breeches or one bib and brace overall. The “ski ensemble” may also consist of a ski 

overall (see “ski overall” definition) and a type of padded, sleeveless jacket worn over 

the overall. All the components of a “ski ensemble” are made up in a fabric of the same 

texture, style and composition whether or not of the same color; they are also of 

corresponding or compatible size. See also “Ski-suits”. 

Ski jackets - See “Anoraks, windbreakers and similar articles”. 

Ski overalls (6112, 6211) - are one-piece garments designed to cover the upper and 

the lower parts of the body; in addition to sleeves and a collar the ski overall may have 

pockets or foot straps. See also “Ski-suits”. 

Ski suits (6112, 6211) - are garments or sets of garments which, by their general 

appearance and texture, are identifiable as intended to be worn principally for skiing 

(cross-country or alpine). They consist either of a ski overall or a ski ensemble. See 

also “Ski overall” and “Ski ensemble”. 

Ski/Snowboard Pants (6203.43.35.10, 6204.63.3010, 6210.40.5031 and 6210.50.5031 

only) - means ankle-length pants made of synthetic fabrics, with or without insulation for 

cold weather protection, with zippered or hook and loop enclosed pockets, sealed 

seams and hidden elastic leg sleeves, and with one or more of the following: side 

openings, scuff guards or reinforcement in the seat. A sealed seam is one that has 

been covered, on the back side of the fabric, with tape or a coating to "bridge" the seam 

 

13 adapted from Explanatory Notes, heading 6103. 

19
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

so that air and water cannot pass through. The tape or coating may be applied using 

heat and/or pressure. 

Skirts, divided skirts (6104, 6204) - are outer garments covering the body below the 

waistline, and extend from the waist to the mid-thigh vicinity and below. Fashion trends 

have also produced skirts of shorter length. Skirts enclose both legs in a single tube 

with no fabric surrounding either leg separately. Divided skirts are garments that are 

constructed so that each leg is individually surrounded by fabric. When worn, the leg 

separation is not apparent when viewed from the front. Skirts or divided skirts that 

extend above the natural waistline a short distance (but not more than 6 inches) as well 

as skirts with attached straps or back bibs are still classified as skirts. This term 

excludes skirts with a front rise of more than 6 inches. Such garments are classified in 

heading 6114, if knit, and 6211, if woven, (6 inch guideline will be proportionately less 

for girls’ skirts). 

Sleepwear (men’s and boys’) (6107, 6207) - is a group of garments that are worn to 

bed for sleeping, which are not covered by the provision for nightshirts and pajamas. 

Refer also to the introductory note entitled “Notes on Sleepwear”. See also “Nightshirts 

and pajamas (men’s and boys’)”. 

Slips (6108, 6208) - are “undergarment[s] worn by women and girls [usually] beginning 

above the bust . . . and held in place with shoulder straps”.14

Suit-type jackets (6103, 6104, 6203, 6204) - are garments generally designed for wear 

over a lighter outer garment, on business or social occasions when some degree of 

formality is required. They are tailored, have a full frontal opening without a closure or 

with a closure other than a slide fastener (zipper), and have sleeves (of any length). 

They have three or more panels (excluding sleeves), of which two are at the front, sewn 

together lengthwise. They do not extend below the mid-thigh and are not for wear over 

another coat, jacket or blazer.15 See also “Anoraks, windbreakers, ski-jackets and 

similar articles”. 

Suits (6103, 6104, 6203, 6204) - are sets of garments consisting of a: 

1) suit coat or jacket and one pair of trousers, breeches, or shorts, a skirt or divided 

skirt, having neither braces nor bibs or 

2) suit coat or jacket, vest and one pair of trousers, breeches, or shorts, a skirt or 

divided skirt, having neither braces nor bibs. The front of the vest is made from 

the same fabric as the outer surface of the other components and the back is 

made from the same fabric as the lining of the suit coat or jacket. 

All components of the suit are of identical fabric as to construction, style, color, and 

composition, and of corresponding or compatible size (vests and trousers of contrasting 

fabrics or colors are not included as parts of suits). One or more of the components 

may have piping (a strip of fabric sewn into the seam) which is of a different fabric 

 

14 Calasibetta, op cit, pg. 525. 

15 Adapted from Explanatory Notes, heading 6103.

20
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

composition than the “suit” components. The coat or jacket is tailored and consists of 4 

or more panels, two in front and two in back, exclusive of sleeves, sewn together 

lengthwise; it has a full-frontal opening without a closure or with a closure (without 

zippers); sleeves of any length; and may be designed for wear over a shirt or blouse but 

not over another coat, jacket, or blazer. It may be waist length or extend below the 

waist, but does not extend below the mid-thigh area. 

If several separate components covering the lower part of the body are entered together 

(e.g., trousers and shorts, or a skirt or divided skirt and trousers), the constituent lower 

part shall be the trousers, or, in the case of women’s or girls’ suits, the skirt or divided 

skirt, the other garments being considered separately. 

The term “suit” includes the following sets of garments, whether or not they fulfill all of 

the above conditions: 

1) morning dress, comprising a plain jacket (cutaway) with rounded tails hanging 

well down at the back, and striped trousers; 

2) evening dress (tailcoat), generally made of black fabric, the jacket of which is 

relatively short at the front, does not close, and has narrow skirts cut in at the 

hips and hanging down behind; 

3) dinner jacket suits, in which the jacket is similar in style to an ordinary jacket 

(though perhaps revealing more of the shirt front), but has shiny silk or imitation 

silk lapels. 

Sets of garments such as athletic suits, athletic uniforms, rain suits, ski suits, work 

uniforms, etc., are not suits even though the components are of identical fabric.16

Sunsuits (babies’) - See “Sunsuits, washsuits and similar apparel (babies’)”. 

Sunsuits, washsuits and similar apparel (babies’) (6111, 6209) - is a group of 

abbreviated one-piece garments designed to be worn alone, with top or blouse 

coverage above the waist and panty or shorts coverage below the waist. The terms 

sunsuits and washsuits are for Customs purposes, interchangeable. See also 

“Playsuits (babies’)” and “Washsuits (babies’)”. 

Sunsuits, washsuits and similar apparel (other than babies’) (6114, 6211) - See 

“Sunsuits, washsuits, one-piece playsuits and similar apparel”. 

Sunsuits, washsuits, one-piece playsuits and similar apparel (women’s and girls’)

(6211, 6114) - are knit or woven one-piece garments simulating a shirt or top and 

shorts. The shorts portion of the garments extend only as far as above the knee. 

These garments are intended to be worn without other attire (outerwear). Similar onepiece garments such as coveralls and jumpsuits extend to the knee or below. 

Suspenders (6212) - are detachable straps of fabric worn over shoulders and clipped 

or buttoned to the front and back of pants, shorts or skirt. 

 

16 adapted from Explanatory Notes, heading 6103, 6104

21
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Sweaters (6110, 6111) - are knit garments that cover the body from the neck or 

shoulders to the waist or below (as far as the mid-thigh or slightly below the mid-thigh). 

Sweaters may have any type of pocket treatment or any type of collar treatment, 

including a hood, or no collar, or any type of neckline. They may be pullover style or 

have a full or partial front or back opening. They may be sleeveless or have sleeves of 

any length. Those sweaters provided for at the statistical level (9th and 10th digit of the 

tariff number) have a stitch count of 9 or fewer stitches per 2 centimeters measured on 

the outer surface of the fabric, in the direction in which the stitches are formed. Also 

included in these statistical provisions are garments, known as sweaters, where, due to 

their construction (e.g., open-work raschel knitting), the stitches on the outer surface 

cannot be counted in the direction in which the stitches are formed. Garments with a 

full-front opening but which lack the proper stitch count for classification as a sweater 

may be considered “sweater-like” cardigans of heading 6110. 

This term excludes garments that have a sherpa lining or a heavyweight fiberfill lining 

(including quilted lining), which are used to provide extra warmth to the wearer. Such 

garments, whether or not they have a sweater stitch-count, are classified in heading 

6101 or 6102. This term also excludes cardigans that are tailored. Such garments are 

classified in heading 6103 or 6104. See also “Anoraks, windbreakers, ski-jackets and 

similar articles”. 

Sweatshirts (6110, 6111) - are pullover style garments worn on the upper body 

reaching to the waist or below, with long or short sleeves and a snug fitting bottom and 

cuffs (rib knit, elastic, drawstring, etc.). Sweatshirts may have pockets and a wide 

variety of neck treatments (from crew, boat or V-neck to hood or turned down collar). 

The body of the garment, as distinguished from the bottom, cuffs, neckband and/or 

collar, is of the familiar, close-knit, unpatterned fabric, significantly napped on the inside 

surface only. Sweatshirts with full frontal openings are classified as jackets. 

 

Swimwear (6112, 6211) - is a term referring to garments designed for swimming. 

Included in this term are swim trunks, which usually have an elasticized waist with a 

drawstring threaded through it, and a full lightweight support liner. Garments that 

cannot be identified specifically as swim trunks will be considered shorts. Multiple-use 

“sports” or “athletic” shorts that bear a close resemblance to swim trunks and are 

designed for running, team sports etc. are not considered swimwear. 

T-shirts (6109, 6111) - are underwear style garments, constructed from lightweight, 

plain jersey or interlock knit fabric (not over 200 grams per square meter), with short 

close-fitting hemmed sleeves and a hemmed bottom. T-shirts have close-fitting or lower 

necklines (round, square, boat-shaped or v-shaped). Buttons or other fastenings, 

openings in the neckline, collars, embroidery, and other features inconsistent with an 

underwear style garment are not present.17 T-shirts do not have a drawstring, rib knit 

waistband, or other means of tightening at the bottom. 

 

17 Adapted from Explanatory Notes, heading 6109. 

22
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Men’s and boys’ all-white T-shirts meet the basic T-shirt description, and have a crew, 

round or mitered v-neckline; and do not have any pockets. “Other T-shirts” for men or 

boys are garments with all of the basic T-shirt features, but may be made from dyed or 

screen printed fabric, and may include a single, plain chest pocket. 

The term “T-shirt” excludes garments that meet the above basic T-shirt description, but 

that have one or two relatively “inconspicuous” non-T-shirt features. Examples of such 

features are: a small applique, a small embroidery, shoulder pads, a small label, a small 

heat transfer, side slits, a longer back panel or tail, a cross-over neckband, a sweat 

patch, close-fitting long sleeves. Such garments are classified in the appropriate 

“similar garments” provisions of heading 6109 or 6111. Note: the presence of more 

than two “inconspicuous” features, or any “inconspicuous” feature which is exaggerated, 

would result in classification as a pullover in heading 6110 (other). 

The term also excludes T-shirt type garments that meet the above basic T-shirt 

description, but that have a “conspicuous” non-T-shirt feature. Examples are: any fabric 

which is not plain jersey or interlock knit, heavyweight fabric (over 200 grams per 

square meter), a large applique, a large amount of embroidery, a mock turtleneck or 

high-crew neckline, a large label, a large heat transfer, pieced construction (inserts in 

the body, sleeves, collar or pocket), oversized specifications (wide, loose-fitting body or 

sleeves), double-layer fabric, lack of sleeves, loose-fitting long sleeves. Such garments 

are classified in the provisions for pullovers in heading 6110. 

Tank tops (6109) - are sleeveless garments with oversized armholes, with or without 

significant drops below the armhole openings. The front and the back may have a 

round, V, U, scoop, boat, square or other shaped neck. The top of the neckline is below 

the nape of the neck. The body is supported by straps not over two inches in width 

reaching over the shoulder. The straps are attached to the garment and are not easily 

detachable. The bottom hems may be straight, curved or side-vented. Garments 

classified as tank tops do not have pockets, except for breast pockets; belt treatments 

of any kind, including simple loops; or any type of front or back neck opening, including 

buttons, zippers, etc. They do not have a drawstring, rib knit waistband, or other means 

of tightening at the bottom. 

Tank styles and similar upper body garments (woven) (6211) - is a group of 

garments which are not considered blouses or shirts due to lack of coverage. This 

group encompasses three types of upper body garments: 

Sleeveless tank styles are garments that provide limited shoulder coverage. 

Tank styles have narrow straps, a defined neckline (U, V, scooped, etc.), and 

extend from the neck and shoulders to the waist or slightly below. 

23
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Camisoles are garments that provide limited shoulder coverage. Camisoles 

normally have spaghetti-type or ribbon-type straps and extend from the neck and 

shoulders to the waist but lack defined necklines. Camisoles are cut straight 

across the top edge from side seam to side seam either in the front, the back or 

both. 

Abbreviated upper body garments, excluding support garments in heading 6212, 

are those which lack coverage either at the shoulder, armhole or waist. These 

include bandeaus, bustiers, midriff baring and other cropped style garments, 

halters, tubes, etc. 

 

Tank styles are classified in the specific subheading of 6211 for tank styled garments. 

Camisoles and other abbreviated upper body garments are classified in the basket 

provisions of heading 6211. 

Tights (6115) - are form-fitting hosiery, covering the waist and leg. They may be 

footed, footless or have stirrups at the feet. They are constructed of finely knit fabric, 

have an elasticized waist and generally have a gusset in the crotch area. The leg 

portion is seamless or may have a center back seam along the leg. 

Tops (6114) - are upper body garments that are not included more specifically in 

headings 6101-6113. Tops generally have limited coverage of the neck and shoulder 

area, and/or do not reach the waist. Garments lacking coverage of the neck and 

shoulder area may have shoulder straps, a halter neckline, or no straps. The front 

and/or back of the garment may be cut straight across from side seam to side seam. 

Terms sometimes used to describe these garments are halter-tops, tube tops or 

camisoles. All of these garments are classified in the specific subheadings for tops in 

6114. 

Track suits (6112, 6211) - are sets of garments clearly meant to be worn exclusively or 

mainly in the pursuit of sporting activities, because of their appearance and the nature 

of the fabric from which they are made. Knit tracksuits are not lined but the fabric may 

have a raised inner surface (nap). Woven track suits may have a lining if the lining 

allows for transfer of moisture away from the skin. “Track suits consist of two garments, 

namely: 

1) A garment meant to cover the upper part of the body down to or slightly below 

the waist area. It has long sleeves, with ribbed or elasticized bands, zip 

fasteners or other tightening elements at the cuffs. Similar tightening elements, 

including drawstrings, are generally to be found at the bottom of this garment. 

When it has a partial or complete opening at the front, it is generally fastened by 

means of a slide fastener (zipper). It may or may not be fitted with a hood, a 

collar and pockets. 

24
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

2) A second garment (a pair of trousers) which may be either close or loose 

fitting, with or without pockets, with an elasticized waistband, drawstring or other 

means of tightening at the waist, with no opening at the waist and therefore no 

buttons or other fastening system. However, such trousers may be fitted with 

ribbed or elasticized bands, slide fasteners (zippers) or other tightening elements 

at the bottom of the trouser-legs which generally go down to ankle level. They 

may or may not have foot straps.”18

This term excludes suits that have embellishments that interfere with athletic 

performance, or constructions that don’t permit the garments to “breathe” (such as most 

waterproof coatings). 

Trousers (6103, 6104, 6111, 6203, 6204, 6209, 6210) - are outerwear garments with 

leg separations extending below the knee. They are held in place by various means of 

waist or hip cinching mechanisms such as elasticized or ribbed waistbands, belts, or 

adjustable tabs; permanently affixed suspenders can also be used. Trousers that 

continue above the natural waistline for a short distance, but less than 6 inches (or 

proportionately less for children), with suspenders and/or back bibs of whatever height 

are included. This term excludes panties, divided skirts, and trousers with permanently 

attached front bibs extending more than six inches (proportionately less for children), as 

measured from the lowest point of the rise, above the natural waistline. 

Two or more colors in the warp and/or the filling (6204, 6205, 6206, 6207, 6208, 

6211) - is a term that refers to garments containing fabrics, excluding pockets, collars, 

cuffs, plackets, and other insignificant components, with different color yarns in the warp 

and the filling, or which have different color yarns within the warp or within the filling. 

For the purposes of this term, different shades of the same color are considered 

different colors, and white is considered a color. The color may be the fibers’ natural 

color or may be the result of a bleaching or dyeing process. If the result of a dyeing 

process, the color may be added at any stage in the manufacture of the fabric, in the 

fiber, yarn, or, in the case of cross-dyeing, in the fabric stage. 

Underpants (6107, 6207) - are long or short pants worn under other garments as 

underwear. See also “Underwear”. 

Undershirts - See “Singlets” and “Underwear”. 

Underwear (6108, 6109) - is a term referring to garments which are ordinarily worn 

under other garments and are not exposed to view when the wearer is conventionally 

dressed for appearance in public, indoors or out-of-doors. Whether or not a garment is 

worn next to the body of the wearer is not a determinant; babies’ diapers, for example, 

are so worn, as are bathing suits. Neither of these garments are customarily worn 

under other garments, and they are not underwear. This term excludes bodysupporting garments, even though they may have the characteristics indicated above 

for underwear. 

 

18 Explanatory Notes, heading 6112.

25
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

Vests (6110, 6211) - are upper body garments resembling a sleeveless sweater or 

jacket. They feature oversized armholes and are designed for wear over other outer 

garments such as blouses or shirts. Vests extend to the waist or slightly below; some 

contemporary vests may be as long as hip-length. Knit vests other than sweater vests 

(6110) have a stitch count of more than 9 stitches per 2 centimeters measured on the 

outer surface of the fabric, in the direction in which the stitches are formed. Vests can 

be categorized as traditional or contemporary in styling. 

Traditional vests (waistcoats) are short, close fitting garments with a full-front, buttoned 

opening, frequently with V-shaped forms at the bottom of the front panels. They are 

similar to, or actually function as, part of a three-piece suit and the back of the garment 

is made from lining fabric. 

Contemporary vests may be longer, extending past the waist and often have a deep V 

or U-shaped neckline and oversized arm openings. They usually have a full-front 

opening and a variety of closures but may also be found as a pullover. They may be 

made of the same fabric in front and back. 

Washsuits (babies’) (6111, 6209) - are abbreviated one-piece garments designed to 

be worn alone, with top or blouse upper body coverage above the waist and panty or 

shorts coverage below the waist. They are usually intended for young children in month 

sizes newborn to 24 months and toddler sizes 2-4T. The terms sunsuits and washsuits 

are for Customs purposes, interchangeable. See also “Sunsuits, washsuits and similar 

apparel (babies’)”. 

Washsuits, sunsuits, one-piece playsuits and similar apparel (other than babies’)

(6211) - See “Sunsuits, washsuits, one-piece playsuits and similar apparel”. 

Water resistant (6201, 6202, 6203, 6204, 6211) - is a term that describes garments 

with a water resistance such that, under a head pressure of 600 millimeters, not more 

than 1.0 gram of water penetrates after two minutes when tested in accordance with 

AATCC Test Method 35-1985. See ASTM designations D 3600-81 and D 3781-79. 

This water resistance is the result of a rubber or plastics application to the outer shell, 

lining or inner lining. 

Windbreakers - See “Anoraks, windbreakers and similar articles”. 

26
Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

The Internet 

The home page of U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the Internet’s World Wide 

Web, provides the trade community with current, relevant information regarding CBP 

operations and items of special interest. The site posts information -- which includes 

proposed regulations, news releases, publications and notices, etc. -- that can be 

searched, read on-line, printed or downloaded to your personal computer. The web site 

was established as a trade-friendly mechanism to assist the importing and exporting 

community. The web site also links to the home pages of many other agencies whose 

importing or exporting regulations that U.S. Customs and Border Protection helps to 

enforce. The web site also contains a wealth of information of interest to a broader 

public than the trade community. For instance, the “Know Before You Go” publication 

and traveler awareness campaign is designed to help educate international travelers. 

 

The web address of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is http://www.cbp.gov

Customs Regulations 

The current edition of Customs and Border Protection Regulations of the United States 

is a loose-leaf, subscription publication available from the Superintendent of 

Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402; telephone (202) 

512-1800. A bound edition of Title 19, Code of Federal Regulations is also available for 

sale from the same address. All proposed and final regulations are published in the 

Federal Register, which is published daily by the Office of the Federal Register, National 

Archives and Records Administration, and distributed by the Superintendent of 

Documents. Information about on-line access to the Federal Register may be obtained 

by calling (202) 512-1530 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. These notices are 

also published in the weekly Customs Bulletin described below. 

Customs Bulletin 

The Customs Bulletin and Decisions (“Customs Bulletin”) is a weekly publication that 

contains decisions, rulings, regulatory proposals, notices and other information of 

interest to the trade community. It also contains decisions issued by the U.S. Court of 

International Trade, as well as customs-related decisions of the U.S. Court of Appeals 

for the Federal Circuit. Each year, the Government Printing Office publishes bound 

volumes of the Customs Bulletin. Subscriptions may be purchased from the 

Superintendent of Documents at the address and phone number listed above. 

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June 2008 

Importing into the United States 

This publication provides an overview of the importing process and contains general 

information about import requirements. The current edition of Importing Into the United 

States contains much new and revised material brought about pursuant to the Customs 

Modernization Act (“Mod Act”). The Mod Act has fundamentally altered the relationship 

between importers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by shifting to the importer 

the legal responsibility for declaring the value, classification, and rate of duty applicable 

to entered merchandise. 

The current edition contains a section entitled "Informed Compliance." A key component 

of informed compliance is the shared responsibility between U.S. Customs and Border 

Protection and the import community, wherein CBP communicates its requirements to 

the importer, and the importer, in turn, uses reasonable care to assure that CBP is 

provided accurate and timely data pertaining to his or her importation. 

Single copies may be obtained from local offices of U.S. Customs and Border 

Protection, or from the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20229. An on-line version is 

available at the CBP web site. Importing into the United States is also available for 

sale, in single copies or bulk orders, from the Superintendent of Documents by calling 

(202) 512-1800, or by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing 

Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7054. 

Informed Compliance Publications 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has prepared a number of Informed Compliance 

publications in the “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know 

About:...” series. Check the Internet web site http://www.cbp.gov for current 

publications. 

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June 2008 

Value Publications 

Customs Valuation under the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 is a 96-page book 

containing a detailed narrative description of the customs valuation system, the customs 

valuation title of the Trade Agreements Act (§402 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended 

by the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (19 U.S.C. §1401a)), the Statement of 

Administrative Action which was sent to the U.S. Congress in conjunction with the TAA, 

regulations (19 C.F.R. §§152.000-152.108) implementing the valuation system (a few 

sections of the regulations have been amended subsequent to the publication of the 

book) and questions and answers concerning the valuation system. 

Customs Valuation Encyclopedia (with updates) is comprised of relevant statutory 

provisions, CBP Regulations implementing the statute, portions of the Customs 

Valuation Code, judicial precedent, and administrative rulings involving application of 

valuation law. A copy may be purchased for a nominal charge from the Superintendent 

of Documents, Government Printing Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-

7054. This publication is also available on the Internet web site of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection. 

The information provided in this publication is for general information 

purposes only. Recognizing that many complicated factors may be 

involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a ruling under 

CBP Regulations, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or obtain advice from an expert 

(such as a licensed Customs Broker, attorney or consultant) who 

specializes in customs matters. Reliance solely on the general 

information in this pamphlet may not be considered reasonable care.

Additional information may also be obtained from U.S. Customs and Border Protection 

ports of entry. Please consult your telephone directory for an office near you. The 

listing will be found under U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security. 

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Apparel Terminology 

June 2008 

“Your Comments are Important” 

The Small Business and Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and 10 regional 

Fairness Boards were established to receive comments from small businesses about 

Federal agency enforcement activities and rate each agency’s responsiveness to small 

business. If you wish to comment on the enforcement actions of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection, call 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). 

REPORT SMUGGLING 1-800-BE-ALERT OR 1-800-NO-DROGA 

Visit our Internet web site: http://www.cbp.gov

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