HS 520511 Single yarn, of uncombed fibres
Quick Answer: Cotton yarn, single, of uncombed cotton fibres, imported under HS 520511 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 3.7% ad valorem (MFN). This classification specifically covers single yarns spun from cotton that has not undergone the combing process, resulting in a less uniform and typically coarser yarn. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on preferential trade agreements, particularly in the US market where several countries benefit from duty-free entry. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-of-origin rules for accurate customs declarations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205111000 | 3.7% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 520511 | — | — | — |
| 5205112000 | 5% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 5205.11?
Imports of Single yarn, of uncombed fibres may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 12 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 520511 cover?
This subheading covers single yarn of cotton, not put up for retail sale, made from uncombed cotton fibres, and measuring more than 850 decitex but not more than 2,000 decitex. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for yarns that have undergone minimal processing, specifically avoiding the combing process which aligns with the "uncombed fibres" description. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope for single cotton yarns within this specific decitex range.
What falls outside HS 520511?
The following products are excluded from HS 520511: yarns made from combed cotton fibres (classified under 520512), yarns of other textile materials, yarns put up for retail sale (classified under Chapter 50-63, often in specific subheadings for retail packaging), and single yarns outside the specified decitex range of 850 to 2,000. For instance, finer single cotton yarns would fall under 520513, while coarser ones would be classified elsewhere within heading 5205 based on their decitex measurement.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520511?
A common error is misinterpreting the "uncombed fibres" requirement. Importers may mistakenly classify combed cotton yarn under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a yarn has undergone the combing process, it is specifically excluded from this subheading and must be classified under the appropriate subheading for combed cotton yarn, typically 520512.
How should importers classify products under HS 520511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 520511 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm the material is 100% cotton. Second, verify that the yarn is a single yarn and not plied. Third, ascertain that the yarn is not put up for retail sale. Fourth, determine if the fibres are uncombed. Finally, measure the yarn's decitex to ensure it falls between 850 and 2,000. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and official tariff databases is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520511?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of single, uncombed cotton yarn, measuring 1,000 decitex, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty of $350.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 3.5% × $5,000 USD = $175.00. *Correction: The example provided in the prompt was incorrect. For a more accurate example, let's assume a specific duty rate for a quantity-based calculation if available, or stick to ad valorem. Using the ad valorem rate of 3.5% for the declared value of $5,000 USD, the duty is $175.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can offer a preferential rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also provide duty-free entry for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 520511, 'Single yarn, of uncombed fibres'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 520511 is typically 3.7% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and the United States (US) may be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements.
What specific criteria define 'Single yarn, of uncombed fibres' under HS code 520511?
HS code 520511 covers single yarns made from cotton, not put up for retail sale, and specifically those spun from uncombed (carded) cotton fibres. The key classification criteria are: 1. Material: Must be cotton. 2. Construction: Must be a single yarn (not plied or cabled). 3. Fibre preparation: Must be spun from uncombed (carded) fibres, distinguishing it from combed yarns (which fall under HS 520512). 4. Presentation: Not put up for retail sale. The yarn's fineness (measured in metric count) also determines subheadings within Chapter 52, but 520511 generally applies to yarns of specific fineness ranges as detailed in the official tariff schedule.
How is the import duty for HS code 520511 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 520511 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.7% and you import 1,000 kilograms of single yarn valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. Duty Amount = $5,000 USD × 3.7% = $185 USD. It is essential to use the correct customs value, which usually includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight (CIF) up to the point of importation. Always verify the applicable duty rate for the specific importing country and the origin of the goods.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 520511?
When importing goods classified under HS code 520511, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the description, quantity, unit price, and total value of the yarn; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the contract of carriage. To claim preferential duty rates under FTAs, a Certificate of Origin is usually mandatory, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or samples if requested by customs authorities to verify the classification and composition of the yarn.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520511, and how can importers benefit?
Several common trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often leading to duty-free entry, for HS code 520511. Examples include agreements between the US and countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). To benefit, importers must ensure the single yarn originates from a country that is a party to an applicable FTA with the importing country. This requires obtaining a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, which must be presented to customs at the time of import. The specific rules of origin, including any requirements for local content or processing, must be carefully reviewed for each agreement to ensure compliance and eligibility for preferential treatment.