Plastic Heel Counters
Rigid plastic inserts shaped to reinforce the heel area of shoes, molded from thermoplastic materials. Classified in 6406.90.30 as footwear parts of plastics, not outer soles or excluded trimmings. They maintain shoe structure during wear.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If generic plastic inserts not shaped for footwear
Unspecified plastic articles default to Chapter 39 basket provisions.
If of metal-reinforced plastic
Metal-dominant reinforcements shift to other materials subheading.
If made of paperboard or cardboard composites
Cellulosic heel stiffeners use primary material per Chapter Note 4(a).
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Include technical drawings showing heel-specific contour to distinguish from generic plastic moldings
• Label with precise plastic resin type (e.g
• ABS, PVC) for customs material verification
• Avoid bundling with uppers; separate packaging prevents classification as assembled uppers
Related Products under HTS 6406.90.30
Rubber Heel Cushions
Replaceable rubber wedges that attach under shoe heels for height and shock absorption. As heel cushions of rubber, they precisely match HTS 6406.90.30 for footwear parts. Popular in orthopedic and fashion footwear.
Plastic Shank Reinforcements
Narrow plastic strips inserted lengthwise in shoe arches for stability. These TPU or nylon plastic shanks classify under 6406.90.30 as essential footwear parts of plastics.
Rubber Vamp Linings
Thin rubber sheets pre-cut for lining the vamp (toe-upper) area of boots, providing waterproofing. As footwear parts of rubber, they enter under HTS 6406.90.30.
Plastic Eyelet Stays
Molded plastic reinforcements around lace eyelets to prevent tearing. Though note 4(a) ignores them for uppers, standalone imports classify as 6406.90.30 footwear parts.
TPU Counter Liners
Thermoplastic polyurethane films thermoformed for heel counter lining in sneakers. Plastics material places them in HTS 6406.90.30 as footwear parts.
Rubber Shoe Sole Units
Pre-formed sole units made entirely of rubber, designed to be attached to footwear uppers during manufacturing. They qualify under HTS 6406.90.30 as parts of footwear other than outer soles, specifically of rubber, used in assembling complete shoes. The rubber composition provides durability and traction.