HS 520515 Measuring less than 125 decitex (exceeding 80 metric number)
Quick Answer: Cotton yarn, measuring less than 125 decitex (exceeding 80 metric number), enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.40% (MFN), and the US at 9.9% (MFN). This classification specifically covers single, unbleached cotton yarns of this fine count. Importers should be aware of the varying tariff rates across major markets. For instance, the US offers preferential duty-free entry for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-of-origin rules and potential trade agreements to optimize duty payments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205150000 | — | — | — |
| 5205151000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5205159000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205151000 | 4.40 % | — | — |
| 5205159000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5205150000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5205151000 | 9.9% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 5205152000 | 12% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 520515 | — | — | — |
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 5205.15?
Imports of Measuring less than 125 decitex (exceeding 80 metric number) 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 520515 cover?
This subheading covers single, unbleached or bleached cotton sewing thread, measuring less than 125 decitex, which is equivalent to exceeding 80 metric number (Nm). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WHS) Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this classification is for fine-count cotton threads specifically intended for sewing, characterized by their high thread count per unit of weight, ensuring strength and fineness for various textile applications.
What falls outside HS 520515?
The following products are excluded from HS 520515: cotton sewing thread that measures 125 decitex or more (i.e., 80 metric number or less), cotton yarns not specifically prepared for sewing (e.g., yarns for weaving or knitting), and cotton threads made from staple fibers that are not single threads or are multi-ply yarns. For instance, a coarser cotton yarn for upholstery or a multi-strand embroidery floss would be classified under different subheadings within Chapter 52, based on their specific characteristics and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 520515?
A common error is misinterpreting the decitex or metric number measurement, leading to the incorrect classification of cotton sewing thread. Importers may confuse single threads with multi-ply yarns or fail to distinguish between thread prepared for sewing and general-purpose yarn. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the need for precise technical specifications to ensure accurate placement under HS 520515.
How should importers classify products under HS 520515?
The correct procedure for classifying cotton sewing thread under HS 520515 involves first confirming that the material is 100% cotton and specifically prepared for sewing. Next, the decitex measurement must be determined; if it is less than 125 decitex (exceeding 80 Nm), and it is a single thread, then HS 520515 is likely applicable. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's technical specifications and the relevant tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to verify all criteria.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520515?
A spool of 100% cotton sewing thread, measuring 100 decitex, weighing 50 grams, and declared at a customs value of $10.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.35. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 7.0% × $10.00 = $0.70. However, the USITC HTS also lists a specific duty for certain cotton sewing threads. For this specific type, the rate is $0.007 per gram. Therefore, the duty is $0.007/gram × 50 grams = $0.35. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520515?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520515, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duties for eligible goods from developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for cotton yarn classified under HS code 5205.15?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5205.15, which covers single, other than grey, pure cotton yarn, measuring less than 125 decitex (exceeding 80 metric number), is 4.40%. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating 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 enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the country of origin to determine the applicable duty rate.
How is the 'less than 125 decitex' criterion for HS 5205.15 determined?
The decitex (dtex) is a unit of linear density for textile fibers and yarns, defined as the mass in grams per 10,000 meters. For HS code 5205.15, the yarn must have a linear density of less than 125 dtex. This is equivalent to exceeding 80.645 metric number (Ne), where metric number is defined as the length in meters of yarn weighing one gram. Importers and customs brokers should rely on the manufacturer's specifications or laboratory testing to confirm the yarn's decitex value. This information is typically found on product packaging or technical data sheets.
What documentation is typically required for importing cotton yarn under HS code 5205.15?
Standard import documentation for HS code 5205.15 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) is essential, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin for the specific agreement. For cotton products, specific origin rules often relate to the origin of the raw cotton or the spinning process. It is advisable to consult the importing country's customs authority for any specific declarations or certifications related to textile content or origin.
Can you provide an example of how duty is calculated for HS 5205.15?
Certainly. If a shipment of cotton yarn under HS code 5205.15 has an MFN duty rate of 4.40% ad valorem, and the declared value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Declared Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 USD × 4.40% = $440 USD. If the duty were based on a specific rate (e.g., per kilogram), the calculation would be Duty = Quantity (in kg) × Rate per kg. Always ensure the declared value is the correct customs value, typically the transaction value.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 5205.15?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 5205.15. For instance, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Central America-Dominican Republic-United States Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) can benefit goods from participating Central American countries and the Dominican Republic. Additionally, bilateral agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA) and agreements with countries in the Middle East (e.g., GCC countries) can also impact duty rates. Importers must confirm the specific origin of their goods and the terms of the relevant trade agreement to claim these benefits.