Pullover or Blanket? Comfy® in Court
- Madni Laghari
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
When is a blanket not a blanket? U.S. Customs and the courts just decided — and it matters for your next import.

Customs compliance isn’t always black and white—sometimes it’s as grey and fuzzy as The Comfy®. In a recent U.S. court ruling, a popular hybrid garment tested the very core of tariff classification under the HTSUS. The decision carries weight not just for casual wear fans but for importers, customs consultants, and trade compliance professionals alike.
This case goes beyond comfy loungewear—it's about the serious business of navigating U.S. Customs rules and applying the law to unconventional products. If you import or advise on hybrid or novel goods, you’ll want to understand the implications of this case.
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Key Questions Covered in This Blog
What is the importance of proper customs classification for products like The Comfy®?
How do legal frameworks, such as the Rubies Costume case, guide tariff classifications in unique cases?
What role does the Federal Circuit’s legal framework play in determining whether The Comfy® is a pullover or a blanket?
Why does the classification of The Comfy® matter for importers, exporters, and customs consultants?
Abbreviations Used in This Blog
HTSUS: Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
CBP: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
CIT: Court of International Trade
“In trade, even the coziest products must fit into the rigid rules of classification. This case is a perfect reminder of how trade regulations continue to evolve in response to innovative consumer products.”Arne Mielken, Managing Director, Customs Manager
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What is the importance of proper customs classification for products like The Comfy®?
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