🇺🇸 Importing from India to United States
Terry Towel Import
Compliance — United States
The United States is one of the largest importers of Indian terry towels, with over $800M in annual textile imports from India. This guide covers everything a US importer needs to know — from HS codes and duty rates to FTC labeling and CPSC compliance.
HS Code
6302.60
Duty Rate
9.1%
Authority
US Customs and Border Protection
Mandatory Cert
2 required
HS Code & Import Duty
HS Classification
6302.60
Terry towelling and similar woven terry fabrics, toilet linen and kitchen linen
Duty Rate
9.1% – 11.4% (MFN)
Applied on CIF value. No free trade agreement exists between India and the USA, so the MFN rate applies. Section 301 tariffs do not apply to Indian textile goods.
Labeling Requirements
All textile products must carry an FTC-compliant care label with fiber content, country of origin, and care instructions.
Fiber content must be listed by generic name and percentage (e.g., "100% Cotton").
"Made in India" or "Product of India" must appear on a permanent label attached to the product.
RN (Registered Number) or WPL number of the US importer is required on the label.
Labels must be in English and must be readable without removing the product from packaging.
Required Import Documents
Commercial Invoice
Must include buyer/seller, HS code, description, unit price, total value, country of origin.
Packing List
Carton-by-carton breakdown of pieces, weights, and dimensions.
Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill
Issued by carrier; required for customs entry.
Certificate of Origin (Form A or GSP)
Issued by Indian DGFT/EPC. Though India does not have MFN GSP preference for textiles into the USA, CO is still required.
ISF (Importer Security Filing)
Must be filed 24 hours before vessel departure for sea shipments.
FCC / Product Test Reports
Required if products contain electrical components (e.g., heated towel racks). Not required for standard towels.
OEKO-TEX or GOTS Certificate
Not mandatory but significantly speeds up clearance and reduces inspection risk.
Anabyn provides all standard export documents — Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin — with every shipment. Certification documents (GOTS, Oeko-Tex) are available on request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the import duty on terry towels from India to the USA?
The MFN duty rate for terry towels (HS 6302.60) is approximately 9.1–11.4% of the CIF value. India does not have an FTA with the USA, so the standard rate applies.
Do I need a customs broker to import towels from India?
A licensed Customs Broker is not legally required for informal entries under $2,500, but is strongly recommended for commercial shipments. They handle ISF filings, HS classification, and duty calculations.
What FTC labeling is required for towels imported to the USA?
Towels require a permanent care label with: generic fiber content and percentages, country of origin (India), care instructions, and the US importer's RN number. Labels must be in English.
How long does it take to clear US customs for textile imports?
Most routine shipments clear within 1–5 business days after arrival. Shipments selected for physical examination can take 5–15 days. Having complete documentation reduces examination risk.
Ready to Import?
Source Certified Towels from India
Anabyn handles all export documentation and certification. We ship to United States with full compliance support.