Many exporters face customs delays or fines for wrong product codes. Understanding HS classification for protective clothing is tricky. This guide explains the correct disposable coverall HS Code for export and import, helping businesses avoid mistakes, speed up shipments, and follow the latest rules easily.
Understanding the Harmonized System (HS) Code Structure
The Harmonized System uses a 6-digit base. This expands to 8 or 10 digits based on the country. Each pair of digits has a specific job in classification.
The 6-Digit International Standard: – First 2 digits (Chapter): Broad product category. Disposable coveralls fall under Chapter 62 (apparel, not knitted), Chapter 63 (other textile articles), or Chapter 39 (plastics and plastic products) – Next 2 digits (Heading): Product group within the chapter – Final 2 digits (Subheading): Specific product traits
Extended National Classifications:
– 8-digit codes : EU countries use these for trade within the EU and customs declarations
– 10-digit codes : The United States applies HTS codes. Other countries also use 10-digit codes for domestic tariffs
Primary Disposable Coverall HS Codes Used Worldwide in 2025
2025 global trade data shows 6210.10 as the top classification for disposable coveralls . This 6-digit heading covers “garments made up of nonwovens of heading 5603.” National codes break it down further as 6210.10.90 / 62101090 for “other” garments. More than 7.2 million export-import shipments of disposable coveralls worldwide use this code.
The Leading Classification: HS 6210.10
HS 62101090 ranks as the most popular code for disposable coverall transactions across countries. Real shipment data backs this up. June 2025 saw large industrial shipments from Vietnam and South Korea to the United States. All used this code. Bills of lading showed 40 , 000 to 70,000+ pieces of “non-woven disposable polyethylene product coverall” per shipment.
Take the June 28, 2025, Vietnam-to-USA shipment: 67,000 pieces of 100% nonwoven disposable polyethylene coveralls under HS 62101090. June 2025 brought similar shipments from Honduras and China. Each one used the same classification. Each carried thousands of cartons and tens of thousands of units. This pattern across suppliers and locations proves 6210.10 as the standard for PPE coverall chains.
Alternative Primary Codes by Material Composition
HS 3926.20 – Plastic Protective Clothing is the second major classification. Customs use this code when coveralls count as plastic items instead of textile garments. PVC, polyurethane, and CPE materials trigger this code. A June 27, 2025, China-to-USA shipment showed split classification: “disposable non-woven coverall (polypropylene)” went under HS 621010. “CPE shoe cover” went under HS 392690.
HS 6210.20 and 6210.30 cover special coveralls made from felt (5602), coated textiles (5903, 5906, 5907), or laminated fabrics. National tariff schedules list “nonwoven disposable Lab coats , laminated nonwoven workwear, and nonwoven protective jumpsuits” under these subheadings. The construction method must match technical criteria.
HS 6307.90 – Other made-up textile articles work as a backup classification. Some customs offices treat simple, low-cost disposable coveralls as basic textile items under 6307.20.90 or 6307.90.xx. Historical databases record over 170 disposable-coverall shipments using this code. Volumes stay much lower than the 6210 category.
How to Determine the HS Code for Your Disposable Coveralls?
Start by learning the General Rules for Interpretation (GRI) framework. Follow these steps in order. This helps you avoid errors in customs declarations.
Step 1: Confirm Your Product Qualifies as a Garment Under Chapter 62
First, check if the coverall meets garment criteria. It must be a one-piece body cover with long sleeves and legs. Most have a front zipper closure. The design is for Protective clothing during work. This keeps you in Chapter 62 (Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted). You won’t end up in Chapter 39 (plastic articles) or Chapter 63 (other made-up textiles). The functional form matters more than the material at this stage.
Step 2: Identify Your Base Fabric Composition (Critical Decision Point)
Material composition decides which subheading you use:
Nonwoven fabrics (most common): – Polypropylene SMS, spunbond-meltblown-spunbond, or Tyvek materials go under heading 5603 (nonwovens) – Microporous film bonded to nonwoven (PP+film) stays in the nonwoven category if the nonwoven layer gives the main structure – These materials point you to HS 6210.10 (garments of fabrics from heading 5602 or 5603)
Alternative materials:
– Woven or knitted base fabrics with coating from headings 5903, 5906, or 5907 use different 6210 subheadings
– Pure plastic film construction (PVC, CPE) may shift classification to Chapter 39
Step 3: Check the Disposable and Nonwoven Conditions
Customs authorities look for specific traits. Your coverall should be single-use or limited-use. The fabric is light and not made for washing. It won’t last long. CBP rulings mention “nonwoven disposable apparel designed for use in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or contaminated areas.” This applies to codes 6210.10.4010 or 6210.10.5000 under HTSUS.
Step 4: Determine End-Use Application (Medical vs. Industrial)
The protection level splits the classification:
Medical/Cleanroom/Laboratory applications:
– Sterile processing required
– Particle filtration ratings (99% of 0.5 µm particles or larger)
– Low-lint construction for contamination control
– Used in pharmaceutical facilities, hospitals, and cleanrooms
– Example: Tyvek “Sterile Micro-Clean 212” coveralls for semiconductor manufacturing
Industrial/Hazardous environment applications: – Protection against asbestos fibers, pesticides, and radioactive dust – Meets OSHA exposure standards for specific contaminants – Chemical resistance for industrial solvents or biological agents – Example: Polypropylene disposable coveralls with integrated hood and boot covers for asbestos abatement work
Both categories land in 6210.10 subheadings. The difference affects specific 8-digit or 10-digit extensions in certain countries. Document your intended use on commercial invoices and packing lists. This stops customs disputes. It also ensures consistent classification across shipments.
Country-Specific Disposable Coverall HS Code and Duty Comparison (2025 Latest)
| Country | HS Code | Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 6210.10.9000 | 20% China/HK, 35% Canada, 25% Mexico | Section 232 may add 50% if steel/aluminum is included |
| EU | 6210.10.92 | 8–12% | CN codes required |
| China | 6210.10.90 | 10% | De minimis exemption removed |
| UK | 6210.10.90 | 10–12% | Full 10-digit classification required |
| India | 6210.10 | 10–41% | Reciprocal tariffs vary by origin |
| GCC | 12-digit codes | Varies | Extra data fields required |
| Brazil | 6210.10 | 50% | Flat reciprocal rate |
| Australia | 6210.10 | 10% | Standard rate |
Additional Fees:
- MPF (US): 0.3464%, $27.98–$538.40
- HMF (US): 0.125% ocean freight
- VAT (EU/UK/JP): 10–27% on customs value + duty
FTAs: RCEP, CPTPP, and USMCA reduce or eliminate duties when rules of origin are met.
Common Disposable Coverall HS Code Classification Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Disposable coverall HS Code classification errors cost importers thousands in penalties, delays, and rejected shipments every year. Most mistakes happen because exporters overlook small but critical details. Customs officers spot these issues fast.
Mistake #1: Ignoring Material Composition Documentation
The error: Declaring all disposable coveralls under HS 6210.10 without checking the actual fabric structure. A June 2025 shipment from China got held at US customs for 14 days. The importer listed “disposable coveralls” under 6210.10.9000. Customs testing showed the product was 100% CPE plastic film, not nonwoven fabric.
The fix: Request material composition certificates from your disposable coverall manufacturers . Check if the coverall is true nonwoven (polypropylene spunbond, SMS), coated woven fabric, or plastic film. CPE and PVC coveralls belong under HS 3926.20, not 6210. The duty difference in the US is big. Code 3926.20 faces 5.3% plus Section 301 tariffs. Code 6210.10.9000 carries 10-20% base rates.
Mistake #2: Mixing Up Medical and Industrial Specifications
The error: Using the same HS code for sterile surgical coveralls and basic industrial coveralls. Both might be disposable nonwoven garments. But end-use documentation matters. EU customs rejected a shipment of “medical protective coveralls ” that lacked CE marking and sterile processing proof. The importer couldn’t justify the declared use.
The fix: Match your classification to actual product specs. Medical-grade coveralls need FDA registration numbers (US), CE certification (EU), or equivalent approval documents. Industrial coveralls require different compliance papers. These include OSHA standards and EN standards for Type 5/6 protection. Keep these documents ready for every shipment. Your commercial invoice should state the exact application: “for hospital use,” “for asbestos abatement,” or “for general industrial protection.”
Mistake #3: Defaulting to Catch-All Codes
The error: Classifying uncertain products under HS 6307.90 (other made-up textile articles) to “play it safe.” This backfires. Customs databases track classification patterns. Repeated use of catch-all codes triggers audits. A US importer faced $47,000 in retroactive duties. Auditors found 18 months of misclassified coveralls under 6307.90.98 instead of the proper 6210.10 codes.
The fix: Never use residual categories as your first choice. Work through the classification decision tree step by step. The safety disposable coverall is a garment. It’s nonwoven. It’s disposable. So HS 6210.10 is correct. Reserve 6307.90 for ambiguous textile items that don’t fit standard apparel definitions. Examples include disposable surgical drapes or equipment covers.
Mistake #4: Overlooking Country-Specific Extensions
The error: Stopping at the 6-digit level for countries that require 8 or 10 digits. GCC countries now mandate 12-digit codes as of January 2025. A UAE shipment got rejected because the importer provided HS 6210.10 alone. Customs needed the full 12-digit code with material type, weight range, and end-use specifications.
The fix: Check the destination country’s customs requirements before shipping. US imports need full 10-digit HTS codes. The EU uses 8-digit CN codes. China and Canada have their own extensions. Download the official tariff schedule for your target market. Don’t depend on supplier suggestions alone. Verify against government databases.
Mistake #5: Failing to Update Classifications After Policy Changes
The error: Using 2024 HS codes in 2025 shipments. Tariff structures changed a lot in August 2025. The US eliminated de minimis exemptions. Canada raised duties to 35%. Mexico increased its rates to 30% in October. Old classifications and duty calculations became outdated overnight.
The fix: Subscribe to customs update services or check official trade websites every three months. The World Customs Organization updates HS codes every five years. But individual countries adjust duty rates and subcategories more often. Set calendar reminders to review your classification list every quarter. Document the date and source of your classification decisions. This proves due diligence during audits.
Required Documents and Certificates for Disposable Coverall Customs Clearance
Incomplete paperwork stops shipments cold. Want to avoid storage fees and angry customers? Get your documents ready before the goods leave the factory.
Essential Core Documents of Disposable Coveralls
Commercial Invoice: This form matters most. List buyer and seller details, the full HS code, and the origin country. Accuracy on quantities and total value is key. Miss a single field, and customs holds the shipment.
Packing List: Make the list match your invoice. No exceptions. Show item descriptions, weights, and box sizes. Officers check the actual goods against this paper data.
Certificates and Standards of Disposable Coveralls
- Certificate of Origin (CO): Prove where you made the goods. This helps you cut import taxes through trade agreements.
- Safety Certifications: Selling to the EU? You need CE marking and an EORI number. Medical coveralls demand FDA registration for the US or EN 14126 standards for the EU. Industrial suits must have Type 5/6 protection ratings.
- Lab Reports: Keep original test reports on hand. Officers ask for proof that coveralls meet Safety Standards.
US and EU Specific Rules
US Updates: The $800 tax-free break is gone. Every package needs full processing now. Shipping over $2,500 in value? You must file Electronic Export Information (EEI).
Digital Records: Paper forms are out. File via digital systems like ACE (US) or SAD (EU). Save digital copies of all records for at least 5 years. Auditors check past shipments often, and a missing file means a big fine.
Latest 2025 Disposable Coverall HS Code Changes and WCO Updates
The World Customs Organization (WCO) updates the Harmonized System every five years. HS 2022 remains the global standard until December 31, 2026. No official HS code changes affect disposable coverall classification in 2025. Chapter 62’s protective garment structure remains the same as in 2024.
What Changed in 2025: National Tariff Adjustments, Not HS Structure
Countries changed duty rates and enforcement rules. The base HS codes stayed untouched. The United States dropped its $800 de minimis threshold on August 29, 2025. Now all shipments need complete 10-digit HTS declarations, no matter the value. Canada raised coverall duties to 35% from general rates (25% under USMCA). Mexico plans another jump to 30% in October 2025.
GCC nations (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar) moved to 12-digit codes on January 1, 2025. This adds required fields for material weight ranges and specific end uses. The base 6-digit code (HS 6210.10 for nonwoven coveralls ) stayed the same. The extra six digits require more detailed product specs in customs paperwork.
HS 2027: Preparation Timeline for Next Major Update
The WCO rolls out HS 2027 on January 1, 2027. Draft changes won’t appear until late 2025 or the start of 2026. Check the WCO website every three months for proposed updates to Chapter 62 (apparel) and Chapter 39 (plastics). Past updates show that protective garment categories get clearer definitions. Full overhauls are rare. Expect sharper lines between medical-grade and industrial protective clothing. Material makeup rules may get more precise for nonwoven versus coated fabric types.
Common Questions About Disposable Coverall HS Code
We get the same questions every week from importers and exporters about the disposable coverall HS Code classification. We pulled the 12 most common ones from our customer service tickets, live chat logs, and LinkedIn messages. These answers come from real customs cases our clients faced in 2025.
General Disposable Coverall HS Code Classification Questions
Q: Can I use the same HS code for all types of disposable coveralls?
No. Material composition determines your classification. Nonwoven polypropylene coveralls use HS 6210.10. Pure plastic film coveralls (CPE, PVC) fall under HS 3926.20. Coated fabric coveralls may need HS 6210.20 or 6210.30. Use one code for everything? You’ll trigger customs audits and penalties.
Q: What’s the difference between 6-digit, 8-digit, and 10-digit HS codes?
The first 6 digits work across all countries (WCO standard). The 7th and 8th digits are national extensions. The EU uses 8-digit CN codes. The 9th and 10th digits appear in countries like the US (HTS) and China. You must use the full code length your destination country requires. GCC nations now require 12 digits as of January 2025.
Q: Do medical coveralls and industrial coveralls use different HS codes?
Most times, no. They share the same base code (6210.10 for nonwoven types). The difference shows up in product specs and compliance documents. Not in tariff classification. Medical coveralls need FDA registration, CE marking, or EN 14126 certification. Industrial coveralls need OSHA compliance or Type 5/6 ratings. Both affect customs clearance. Neither changes the base HS code.
Duty and Cost Questions
Q: How much will I pay in customs duties for disposable coveralls?
Duty rates change a lot by origin and destination. China-to-US shipments face a 20% baseline (up to 145% for certain categories). Canada charges 35% on most imports (25% under USMCA). EU rates run 6-12%. Australia sits at 5% or lower for RCEP partners. Don’t forget to add VAT, MPF (0.3464% in the US), and HMF (0.125%) to your total landed cost.
Q: Can free trade agreements reduce my duties to zero?
Yes, if you meet origin requirements. RCEP members trade disposable coveralls at 0% duty between qualifying countries. CPTPP removed tariffs for Vietnam-Canada and Malaysia-Mexico flows. USMCA offers reduced rates (25% vs. 35%) for North American production. You’ll need valid certificates of origin. Plus documentation proving regional value content or tariff heading changes.
Q: What happened to the US de minimis exemption for small shipments?
The US eliminated the $800 de minimis threshold on August 29, 2025. Every package now requires full customs processing. You need to complete 10-digit HTS codes and commercial invoices. Small express shipments that cleared in 24 hours now take 2-5 business days. This adds compliance costs for all importers. Shipment value doesn’t matter anymore.
Compliance and Documentation Questions
Q: What documents do I need for customs clearance?
At minimum: commercial invoice with full HTS/HS code, packing list with weights and dimensions, certificate of origin (for FTA shipments), and EEI filing confirmation (US shipments over $2,500). Add CE certificates for the EU. FDA registration for US medical coveralls . ISO 13485 for quality management. Keep electronic copies for 5+ years. CBP completed 200 audits in 2025’s first few months alone.
Q: How do I prove my coveralls are “nonwoven” for HS 6210.10 classification?
Ask your manufacturer for material composition certificates. Lab tests should confirm the fabric meets heading 5603 specs (nonwoven textiles). Include these test reports with your shipment documents. Customs officers may do a physical check. Missing proof? They’ll reclassify to catch-all codes or plastic categories. That means different duty rates.
Q: What’s the penalty for using the wrong disposable coverall HS code?
Penalties range from small duty adjustments to shipment seizures. CBP recovered $134 million in unpaid duties during 2025’s first four months through classification audits. Deliberate misclassification can trigger fines up to the domestic value of your merchandise. Repeated errors put you on the high-risk importer list. Every future shipment faces physical checks and longer clearance times.
Country-Specific Questions
Q: Why did my shipment get rejected at UAE customs with the correct HS 6210.10 code?
GCC countries moved to 12-digit codes on January 1, 2025. The 6-digit code doesn’t work anymore. You need the full 12-digit classification. This includes material weight range, construction method, and specific end-use designation. Update your documentation system to capture these extra data points before shipping to Middle Eastern markets.
Q: Does Brexit change my disposable coverall HS codes for UK shipments?
The base HS codes stay the same. The UK uses standard WCO classifications. But you need separate UK EORI numbers. Plus UK-specific customs declarations. EU certifications don’t transfer over on their own. China and Hong Kong goods lost preferential treatment. Every shipment needs a full HS classification under UK rules. Value or origin doesn’t change this.
Q: When will the disposable coverall HS codes change next?
The WCO releases HS 2027 on January 1, 2027. No changes affect disposable coveralls in 2025 or 2026. We’re still under HS 2022 standards. Watch for draft updates in late 2025. Past patterns show we might see clearer definitions between medical and industrial protective clothing categories. Plus, better material composition rules for nonwoven versus coated fabrics.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct disposable coverall HS Code protects your shipments, avoids costly delays, and keeps your business fully compliant. Need reliable supply and expert guidance? Contact us today for high-quality disposable coveralls at wholesale prices.
