What is HS-4 6401 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-4 · Heading
6401 — Footwear; waterproof, with outer soles and uppers of rubber or plastics, (uppers not fixed to the sole nor assembled by stitch, rivet, nail, screw, plug or similar)
Chapter 64: Footwear
Plain-language overview
Use HS-4 6401 when importing waterproof footwear made with rubber or plastic that has outer soles and uppers not fixed by traditional methods like stitching or riveting. For example, if you're bringing in a shipment of rubber boots designed for wet conditions, this heading applies.
When deciding between subheadings, consider the specific features of the footwear. For example, HS-6 640110 applies to waterproof footwear with a metal toe-cap, while HS-6 640192 is for ankle-covering styles. If the footwear doesn't fit these specific criteria, you may need to use HS-6 640199, which covers other types not explicitly mentioned.
It's important to note that the distinction between 640192 and 640199 often hinges on the height of the footwear. If your product covers the ankle but not the knee, it fits under 640192; otherwise, you may need to classify it under 640199.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.
HS-4 6401 · waterproof footwear · rubber shoes · plastic boots · metal toe-cap footwear · ankle-covering shoes · non-stitched footwear · import footwear classification · HS-6 640110 · HS-6 640192 · HS-6 640199 · gaiters · import rubber footwear · waterproof shoes · trade footwear codes
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Rubber boots for fishing with no stitching
- Plastic ankle-high waterproof shoes
- Waterproof safety footwear with metal toe-cap
- Non-stitched waterproof sandals
- Rain boots made entirely of rubber
- Waterproof footwear for construction workers
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How do I classify waterproof footwear?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the differences between HS-6 640110 and 640192?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Do rubber boots need a specific HS code?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the right HS code for footwear?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What footwear qualifies for HS-6 640199?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
how to classify waterproof rubber footwear
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
differences between HS-6 640110 and 640192
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
importing plastic waterproof shoes
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
requirements for non-stitched footwear classification
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
what types of footwear fall under HS-4 6401
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
guidelines for importing waterproof boots
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
understanding HS codes for footwear
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
how to choose the right HS code for shoes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of footwear are classified under HS-4 6401?
- HS-4 6401 covers waterproof footwear made with rubber or plastics, specifically those with outer soles and uppers not fixed by traditional methods.
- How do I know if my footwear fits HS-6 640110?
- If your waterproof footwear has a metal toe-cap and is made of rubber or plastic without stitching, it falls under HS-6 640110.
- What is the difference between HS-6 640192 and HS-6 640199?
- HS-6 640192 is for waterproof footwear covering the ankle, while HS-6 640199 is for other waterproof footwear not specifically categorized.
- Can I import non-stitched waterproof sandals under HS-4 6401?
- Yes, non-stitched waterproof sandals can be classified under HS-4 6401 if they meet the criteria of being made from rubber or plastics.
- What should I do if I'm unsure about the correct HS code for my footwear?
- If uncertain, consult with a customs broker or refer to official customs rulings to ensure proper classification.
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HS-6 subheadings (3)
- 640110Footwear; waterproof with metal toe-cap, rubber or plastic outer soles and uppers (not assembled by stitch, rivet, nail, screw, plug or similar)
- 640192Footwear; waterproof, covering the ankle (but not the knee), rubber or plastic outer soles and uppers (not assembled by stitch, rivet, nail, screw, plug or similar)
- 640199Footwear; waterproof, n.e.c. in heading no. 6401, rubber or plastic outer soles and uppers (not assembled by stitch, rivet, nail, screw, plug or similar)