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12-inch Official Softball

A standard 12-inch softball with raised seams, cork core, and leather cover designed for fastpitch softball leagues. It meets specifications for official play in high school and college competitions. Classified under HTS 9506.69.20.80 as a softball for general physical exercise and sports.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+20.0%20%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+12.5%12.5%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

9506.69.40.00Higher: 25.4% vs 20%

If under 12 inches or for slowpitch play

Smaller or slowpitch softballs may classify as 'other' balls rather than specifically 'softballs'.

9503.00.00Lower: 12.5% vs 20%

If marketed as a children's toy

Balls designed exclusively for play as toys, not sports equipment, fall under toys heading 9503.

4011.10Lower: 15.9% vs 20%

If made primarily of rubber without sports-specific features

Plain rubber balls without seams or cores for sports use classify as rubber floor coverings or toys.

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

• Verify ball circumference (11-12 inches) and weight (6.25-7 oz) to confirm softball classification over baseball

• Require COR (Coefficient of Restitution) certification documentation for official vs recreational variants

• Label with material composition to avoid misclassification as toy balls under Chapter 95 heading 9503