Garments Import Duty & Landed Cost: India to United States
Full 2026 tariff breakdown, customs duty calculations, and compliance alerts for importing into United States.
2026 Tariff & Cost Breakdown for Importing Garments
The total cost of importing garments from India to the United States in 2026 includes a 16.5% duty on the CIF value, with no VAT or GST, calculated in USD. This means that the cost will be the CIF value plus 16.5% of the CIF value, with no additional VAT or GST.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Product Value | — | USD 800.00 |
| Shipping | — | USD 0.00 |
| Insurance | — | USD 0.00 |
| CIF Value | — | USD 800.00 |
| Customs Duty | 16.5% | USD 132.00 |
| Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)Min $31.67, Max $614.35 | 0.3464% | USD 31.67 |
| Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) | 0.125% | USD 1.00 |
| VAT/GST | N/A (state sales tax varies) | USD 0.00 |
| Total Landed Cost | — | USD 964.67 |
HS Code Classification for Garments
Primary HS Code: 6109.100012 — What It Covers
The primary HS code for garments is 6109.100012, which covers specific types of garments. U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires accurate classification to avoid misclassification penalties.
Why Misclassification Carries Risk in United States
Misclassification of garments can result in monetary penalties and potential loss of import privileges for the HS code, emphasizing the need for accurate classification by the importer or their representative.
Step-by-Step Guide: Importing Garments from India to United States
Step 1: Verify Your HS Code & Product Description
Verify the HS code and product description to ensure accuracy and compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations. This step helps avoid misclassification and related penalties.
Step 2: Gather Required Import Documents
Gather all required import documents, including commercial invoices, certificates of origin, and packing lists, to ensure smooth customs clearance.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
A commercial invoice must include the CIF value, HS code, and country of origin, among other details, to facilitate customs processing.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin is required to verify the country of origin, which is India in this case, and to determine the applicability of any preferential tariff programs, although none apply here.
Packing List & Shipping Documents
A packing list and other shipping documents are necessary to detail the contents and value of the shipment for customs purposes.
Step 3: Calculate Your Landed Cost
Calculate the landed cost using the formula: CIF + Duty (16.5%) + VAT (0%) = Total, ensuring all costs are considered in USD.
Step 4: Submit to United States Customs Authority
Submit the shipment details and required documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for review and clearance.
Step 5: Pay Duties & Clear Goods
Pay the calculated duties and clear the goods through customs, ensuring compliance with all U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements.
How to Legally Reduce Duty on Garments Imports into United States
Applicable Free Trade Agreements in 2026
No bilateral Free Trade Agreement exists between India and the United States, meaning there are no preferential tariff rates available for garments imported from India.
Duty Deferral Options: Bonded Warehouses & FTZs
Consider using a Class 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 bonded warehouse or a Free Trade Zone (FTZ) to potentially defer duty payments on imported garments.
Preferential Tariff Programs
No preferential tariff programs apply to garments imported from India to the United States, as there is no Free Trade Agreement between the two countries.
United States Customs Compliance Rules for Garments
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Requirements for Garments
U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires compliance with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) for certain garments, particularly those intended for children, and mandates CPSC certifications.
De Minimis Threshold
The de minimis threshold is $800 USD, below which no duties are payable, but this does not exempt imports from other regulatory requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garments Import Duty from India to United States
What is the duty rate for garments imported from India to the US in 2026?
The duty rate for garments imported from India to the US in 2026 is 16.5%. This rate applies to the CIF value of the shipment, calculated in USD.
Are there any Free Trade Agreements that apply to garments imported from India?
No, there are no bilateral Free Trade Agreements between India and the United States that would reduce or eliminate duties on garments.
What certifications are required for garments imported into the US?
CPSC certifications are required for garments imported into the US, particularly for those intended for children, to comply with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA).
How do I calculate the landed cost of garments imported from India?
Calculate the landed cost using the formula: CIF + Duty (16.5%) + VAT (0%) = Total, in USD.
What is the de minimis threshold for importing garments into the US?
The de minimis threshold is $800 USD, below which no duties are payable, but other regulatory requirements still apply.
Can I use a bonded warehouse to defer duty payments on garments?
Yes, you can use a Class 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 bonded warehouse to potentially defer duty payments on imported garments.