HS 540720 Woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like imported under HS 540720 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 81% under the MFN rate. This classification covers woven fabrics manufactured from strips or similar forms of material, typically derived from synthetic or regenerated cellulosic fibers. These materials are often processed into flat strips before weaving, creating fabrics with unique textures and appearances. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity between major trading blocs, particularly the high rate in the United States. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification for cost-effective trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5407201100 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5407201900 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5407200000 | — | — | — |
| 5407209000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5407200000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5407201100 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5407201900 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5407209000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5407200000 | Free | — | ["m²","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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 540720 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Explanatory Notes. This includes fabrics manufactured from materials such as plastics or regenerated cellulose formed into strips. For example, woven fabrics made from polyethylene or polypropylene strips, often used in applications like carpet backing, geotextiles, or bags, fall under this classification. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide specific details and interpretations for this category.
What falls outside HS 540720?
The following products are excluded from HS 540720: woven fabrics made from continuous filament or staple fibers of synthetic or artificial textile materials that are not in the form of strips, and woven fabrics made from natural fibers. For instance, standard polyester or nylon woven fabrics, or cotton canvas, would not be classified here. Additionally, non-woven fabrics or felt, even if made from strip materials, are classified elsewhere, typically under Chapter 56.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 540720?
A common error is misinterpreting the "strip or the like" requirement. Importers may incorrectly classify woven fabrics made from spun yarn or continuous filament yarn that is not specifically processed into a strip form. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Confusing these fabrics with those made from standard yarn, which would fall under other headings within Chapter 5407, is a frequent mistake.
How should importers classify products under HS 540720?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 540720 involves a detailed examination of the fabric's raw material and manufacturing process. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the fabric is indeed woven and that the warp and weft components are derived from strips of plastic, regenerated cellulose, or similar materials. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 540720?
A roll of woven polypropylene strip fabric weighing 100 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5407.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 540720?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 540720, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, fabrics originating from Mexico or Canada may be eligible for duty-free entry, provided they meet the rules of origin and a self-certified origin statement is provided. For example, woven polypropylene fabric originating from Canada could be imported into the US duty-free. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially leading to duty-free status for qualifying goods originating from the UK entering the EU, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```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 540720, 'Woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 540720 is 8.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), originating goods may receive duty-free treatment. It is crucial to consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the USITC for the most current and specific rates applicable to your import.
How is the duty for HS code 540720 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 540720 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 8.00% and you import 1,000 square meters of fabric valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = 8.00% of $5,000 = $400 USD. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to the transaction value method, as per U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
What specific criteria define 'woven fabrics obtained from strip or the like' under HS code 540720?
HS code 540720 covers woven fabrics made from artificial or synthetic filament or strip, or from strip and filament. The key characteristic is that the fabric is constructed using materials that are in the form of 'strip' or 'the like'. This typically refers to flattened forms of synthetic or artificial yarns, often manufactured by slitting plastic film. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further clarification on the nature of these materials and the weaving process. It's important to distinguish these from fabrics made from staple fibers (which fall under other headings) or from continuous filament yarn that has not been processed into a strip.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 540720?
For imports classified under HS code 540720, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements like USMCA, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin meeting the specific requirements of the agreement is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or samples if CBP requests further verification of the classification or origin of the woven fabrics.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 540720, and how can importers verify eligibility?
The United States has several trade agreements that could provide preferential duty rates, including duty-free treatment, for HS code 540720 if the goods meet the rules of origin. The most prominent is the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Other agreements, such as those with Australia or Singapore, might also offer benefits depending on the specific product and its origin. To verify eligibility, importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, which certifies that the goods meet the origin requirements stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. This document is essential for claiming preferential treatment at the time of import. Consulting the USITC's HTSUS and the text of the specific trade agreement is recommended.