HS 050510 Feathers of a kind used for stuffing; down

Quick Answer: Feathers of a kind used for stuffing and down enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a 20% ad valorem duty rate under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This HS code, 050510, specifically covers cleaned, disinfected, and sorted feathers and down, typically derived from geese and ducks, intended for use as filling material in items like pillows, duvets, and apparel. Importers should be aware of potential import restrictions or specific documentation requirements related to animal products, which can vary by country. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0505100000 — — —
0505101000 0.00 % — —
0505109000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
0505100000 — — —
0505101000 0.00 % — —
0505109000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
05051000 Free — —
0505100050 — — ["kg"]
0505100055 — — ["kg"]
0505100060 — — ["kg"]
0505100065 — — ["kg"]

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

How Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 050510 cover?

This subheading covers feathers and down of a kind specifically intended for use as stuffing material in articles such as pillows, duvets, upholstered furniture, and clothing. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category includes cleaned, sorted, and processed feathers and down that meet the quality and characteristics required for stuffing. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the primary criterion is the intended use for stuffing, differentiating it from decorative feathers.

What falls outside HS 050510?

The following products are excluded from HS 050510: feathers and down not intended for stuffing, such as those used for decorative purposes, in fly-fishing lures, or as components in other manufactured goods where stuffing is not the primary function. Also excluded are raw, unprocessed feathers and down, as well as feathers and down that have undergone significant processing beyond cleaning and sorting for stuffing. For example, whole decorative plumes or feathers mounted on sticks for craft purposes would be classified elsewhere, typically under HS 050590.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 050510?

A common error is misclassifying mixed materials containing feathers and down. General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, concerning mixtures or composite goods, dictates that classification should be based on the essential character of the good. If a product is a mixture of feathers and down with other stuffing materials (e.g., synthetic fibers), and the feathers or down do not impart the essential character, it may not fall under 050510. Importers must carefully assess the composition and primary function.

How should importers classify products under HS 050510?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 050510 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the relevant Explanatory Notes from the WCO. Verification of the product's processing level and confirmation that it is specifically prepared for stuffing purposes are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 050510?

A shipment of 100 kilograms of goose down, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.05 = $250.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 050510. The specific rate can vary by country of origin.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 050510?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 050510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. For preferential treatment, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement is typically required. The United Kingdom also has various trade agreements that may offer reduced or zero duties on originating goods from partner countries, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 050710 HS 050210 HS 051110 HS 050610 HS 510510

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the import duty rates for HS code 050510 (feathers and down for stuffing)?

The import duty rates for HS code 050510 can vary significantly depending on the country of origin and the specific trade agreement in place. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (US HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements like the USMCA may also apply. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides the foundational HS nomenclature, but national tariff schedules detail the specific duty rates.

How is the duty for HS code 050510 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty calculation for HS code 050510 typically depends on whether the duty rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). Assuming an ad valorem rate, the formula is: Duty Amount = (Customs Value of Goods) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For instance, if the customs value of a shipment of feathers for stuffing is $10,000 and the applicable ad valorem duty rate is 3.5%, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.035 = $350. Always confirm the specific duty calculation basis (value, weight, etc.) and the applicable rate from the importing country's official tariff.

What are the key classification criteria for HS code 050510?

HS code 050510 covers 'Feathers of a kind used for stuffing; down.' The primary classification criteria are the type of material (feathers or down) and its intended use (for stuffing). This means that raw, unprocessed feathers or down intended for use in products like pillows, comforters, or upholstered furniture would fall under this code. Feathers or down not intended for stuffing, such as ornamental feathers, would likely be classified under different HS codes. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on distinguishing between different types of feathers and their uses.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 050510?

Standard import documentation for HS code 050510 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the exporting country and the importing country's regulations, additional documents may be required. These could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially a phytosanitary certificate or a declaration confirming that the feathers and down are clean, processed, and free from disease, especially if sourced from certain regions. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.

Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 050510?

Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 050510. For example, goods originating from Canada or Mexico and imported into the United States may benefit from preferential rates under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), often resulting in a 0.00% duty rate if rules of origin are met. Similarly, importers within the European Union can refer to the EU's TARIC database to identify preferential rates applicable under agreements with third countries. The UK also has its own tariff schedule with preferential rates for goods from partner countries. It is essential to consult the specific trade agreement and its rules of origin to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.