HS 540211 High tenacity yarn of nylon or other polyamides, whether or not textured
Quick Answer: High tenacity yarn of nylon or other polyamides, whether or not textured, enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 8.8% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification covers strong, durable synthetic yarns primarily used in applications requiring high tensile strength, such as industrial fabrics, ropes, and tire cords. Importers should be aware of the varying duty rates across major markets, as highlighted by CustomTariffs data, and verify specific preferential eligibility to optimize landed costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5402110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5402110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54021130 | 8.8% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5402113010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5402113030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5402113050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 540211 | — | — | — |
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 5402.11?
Imports of High tenacity yarn of nylon or other polyamides, whether or not textured 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 540211 cover?
This subheading covers high tenacity yarn of nylon or other polyamides, whether or not textured, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this specifically includes yarns with a high breaking strength relative to their linear density, often used in demanding applications like tire cord, ropes, and nets. The EU TARIC system also aligns with this definition, focusing on the material composition and the yarn's inherent strength characteristics.
What falls outside HS 540211?
The following products are excluded from HS 540211: yarns of nylon or other polyamides that do not meet the "high tenacity" requirement, such as standard apparel yarns; textured yarns not of high tenacity; monofilament yarns of nylon or other polyamides; and yarns made from other synthetic or artificial fibers. For instance, polyester high tenacity yarn would be classified under a different subheading within Chapter 54, and sewing thread, even if made from high tenacity nylon, is typically classified under HS 5401.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 540211?
A common error is misinterpreting the "high tenacity" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify standard nylon yarns with lower tensile strength 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. It is crucial to verify the yarn's tenacity specifications, often provided by the manufacturer, to ensure it meets the stringent strength criteria for high tenacity yarns.
How should importers classify products under HS 540211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 540211 involves a multi-step process. First, identify the material composition (nylon or other polyamides) and confirm the yarn's "high tenacity" characteristic, referencing manufacturer specifications. Next, consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to verify the exact wording of subheading 5402.11. Importers and customs brokers must ensure the yarn is not specifically excluded by a more specific heading or note.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 540211?
A 100 kg shipment of high tenacity nylon yarn for tire cord, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.03 = $15 USD). However, if the yarn's linear density is specified, for example, 1100 decitex (dtex), and the duty is assessed per kilogram, a rate of $15 per kilogram would result in a duty of $1,500 ($15/kg × 100 kg). This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 540211?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 540211, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 540211 in the US, EU, and UK?
For HS code 540211, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is 3.5% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a rate of 3.5% ad valorem. These rates are subject to change and may be superseded by preferential rates under trade agreements. Always consult the latest official tariff schedules for the most current information.
How is 'high tenacity' defined for nylon or polyamide yarns under HS 540211?
'High tenacity' refers to yarns with a high tensile strength relative to their linear density. For nylon and other polyamides, this is typically characterized by a tenacity of at least 6.0 g/den (grams per denier) or 53.1 cN/tex (centinewtons per tex). This technical specification is crucial for correct classification. Importers should ensure their supplier documentation clearly states the tenacity of the yarn to support the HS 540211 classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing high tenacity nylon yarn under HS code 540211?
Standard documentation for importing HS 540211 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to substantiate the 'high tenacity' claim and ensure correct classification, a manufacturer's affidavit or technical data sheet specifying the yarn's tenacity (e.g., grams per denier or centinewtons per tex) is highly recommended. Certificates of Origin may also be required for claiming preferential duty rates under applicable trade agreements.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 540211, and how do they impact import costs?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 540211. For example, under the USMCA, yarn originating from Canada or Mexico may enter duty-free. The EU has numerous preferential agreements (e.g., with South Korea, Singapore) that could reduce or eliminate duties, depending on the origin of the goods and proof of origin. The UK also has a network of trade agreements. Importers should verify the specific origin of their goods and consult the relevant preferential tariff schedules (e.g., USITC's Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to determine eligibility and claim reduced rates. For instance, if a yarn qualifies for a 'Free' rate under a specific trade agreement, the duty payable would be $0.
Can you provide an example of how import duty is calculated for HS 540211?
Let's assume an importer brings 1,000 kilograms of high tenacity nylon yarn classified under HS 540211 into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem. The commercial invoice states the value of the yarn is $15,000 USD. The duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. Duty = $15,000 USD × 3.5% = $525 USD. In this scenario, the importer would pay $525 in customs duties. If the yarn were subject to a specific duty (e.g., $X per kilogram), the calculation would be: Duty = Quantity × Specific Duty Rate. Always confirm the applicable duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the official tariff schedule.