HS 520612 Measuring less than 714,29 decitex but not less than 232,56 decitex (exceeding 14 metric number but not exceeding 43 metric number)

Quick Answer: Cotton yarn, measuring less than 714.29 decitex but not less than 232.56 decitex (exceeding 14 metric number but not exceeding 43 metric number), enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 40% ad valorem (MFN rate), with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically applies to single, unbleached cotton yarns within a defined fineness range, suitable for various textile applications. Importers should be aware of these differing duty structures when planning shipments across these jurisdictions. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5206120000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5206120000 4.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5206120000 9.2% 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 5206.12?

Imports of Measuring less than 714,29 decitex but not less than 232,56 decitex (exceeding 14 metric number but not exceeding 43 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 520612 cover?

This subheading covers single, unbleached cotton sewing thread, not put up for retail sale, which is made from cotton fibers and has a linear density measuring less than 714.29 decitex but not less than 232.56 decitex. This range corresponds to a metric number exceeding 14 but not exceeding 43, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database confirm this specific decitex range for classification.

What falls outside HS 520612?

The following products are excluded from HS 520612: cotton sewing thread that is bleached, dyed, or otherwise finished; thread put up for retail sale; and thread with a linear density outside the specified range of 232.56 to 714.28 decitex. For instance, sewing thread with a decitex below 232.56 would fall under HS 520611, while thread above 714.29 decitex would be classified under HS 520613.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 520612?

A common error is miscalculating or misinterpreting the linear density (decitex) of the cotton sewing thread. Importers may rely on incorrect conversion factors between metric number and decitex or fail to account for variations in yarn construction. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial, especially when precise decitex measurements are required.

How should importers classify products under HS 520612?

The correct procedure for classifying cotton sewing thread under HS 520612 involves first determining if the product is single, unbleached cotton sewing thread not put up for retail sale. Subsequently, the linear density must be precisely measured in decitex. If the decitex falls within the range of 232.56 to 714.28, then HS 520612 is the appropriate classification. Consulting laboratory test results or manufacturer specifications is essential for accurate determination.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 520612?

A spool of unbleached cotton sewing thread weighing 10 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.30 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 520612.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 520612?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 520612, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates. To claim preference under USMCA, a producer's or importer's claim of origin is typically required, while GSP often necessitates a GSP Form A certificate.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 520622 HS 520613 HS 520623 HS 520614 HS 520512 HS 520632

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

FAQ

What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 520612, which covers cotton yarn measuring less than 714.29 decitex but not less than 232.56 decitex?

The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 520612 is 4.00% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries not covered by preferential trade agreements. For specific preferential rates, consult the relevant trade agreement schedules, as rates can vary significantly based on the country of origin.

How is the classification of cotton yarn under HS 520612 determined, and what are the key decitex ranges?

The classification under HS 520612 is determined by the yarn's linear density, measured in decitex (dtex). This specific code applies to single, unbleached cotton yarns that are measuring less than 714.29 decitex but not less than 232.56 decitex. This range corresponds to exceeding 14 metric number but not exceeding 43 metric number. Accurate measurement of the yarn's linear density is crucial for correct classification.

What documentation is typically required when importing cotton yarn classified under HS 520612?

When importing cotton yarn under HS 520612, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, proof of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For unbleached cotton yarn, a declaration from the exporter confirming its unbleached status might be beneficial, though not always mandatory depending on the importing country's specific regulations.

Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520612, and how do these affect the import cost?

Several trade agreements may offer preferential duty rates for HS code 520612. For example, under agreements like the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU), US-Bahrain FTA (BH), US-Chile FTA (CL), US-Colombia TPA (CO), US-Israel FTA (IL), US-Jordan FTA (JO), US-Korea FTA (KR), US-Morocco FTA (MA), US-Oman FTA (OM), US-Peru TPA (PE), US-Singapore FTA (SG), and US-Panama TPA (PA), the duty rate can be Free (0.00%). This significantly reduces import costs compared to the standard MFN rate. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin for the specific agreement to claim these benefits.

Can you provide a concrete example of how import duty is calculated for HS 520612?

Certainly. If a shipment of cotton yarn classified under HS 520612 has a declared value of $10,000 USD and the standard MFN duty rate of 4.00% ad valorem applies, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Declared Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 4.00% = $400 USD. If the yarn were subject to a specific duty rate (e.g., per kilogram), the calculation would involve the quantity of the imported goods.