HS 550119 Other
Quick Answer: Synthetic staple fibres, not carded or combed, imported under HS 550119 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 45% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This residual classification applies to synthetic staple fibres that do not fit into more specific headings within Chapter 55, such as those made from specific polymers or with particular characteristics. Importers and customs brokers should carefully review the specific composition and properties of the fibres to ensure correct classification, as misclassification can lead to incorrect duty payments and potential penalties. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501190000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501190000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501190000 | 7.5% | 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 5501.19?
Imports of Other 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 550119 cover?
This subheading covers synthetic filament tow, not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, other than those made from artificial staple fibres. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 5501 specifically addresses synthetic filament tow. Subheading 5501.19, designated as "Other," encompasses synthetic filament tow not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings, such as those made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or other synthetic polymers, provided they are not carded, combed, or otherwise prepared for spinning. The USITC HTS and EU TARIC databases confirm this broad scope for synthetic filament tow not otherwise specified.
What falls outside HS 550119?
The following products are excluded from HS 550119: synthetic filament tow that has been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as these would fall under different classifications. Also excluded are artificial staple fibres, which are classified under Heading 5504. For instance, tow of regenerated cellulose fibres, even if not spun, would not be classified here. Products that are already spun into yarn or are in the form of fabrics are also outside the scope of this subheading, as they represent further stages of processing beyond filament tow.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550119?
A common error is misinterpreting the processing stage of the synthetic filament tow. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If tow has undergone any carding, combing, or other preparatory process for spinning, it should not be classified under 5501.19. Importers may also mistakenly classify artificial filament tow, which belongs to a different chapter, or finished products made from tow, such as yarn or fabric, under this subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 550119?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550119 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and processing. Importers and customs brokers must first ascertain that the product is indeed synthetic filament tow and not artificial. Crucially, they must verify that it has not been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is essential to confirm the absence of specific enumerations in other subheadings within 5501.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550119?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of unspecified synthetic filament tow, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5501.19, assuming no preferential trade agreements apply and the MFN rate is the applicable one.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550119?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550119, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for a 0% duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or free entry for goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a valid EUR.1 movement certificate is typically required for EU preferences, while a self-certified origin statement may be sufficient for USMCA, depending on the specific product and origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 550119, 'Other' synthetic filament tow?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550119 is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from certain countries under 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 (0.00%). It is crucial to verify eligibility and obtain the necessary proof of origin for each specific trade partner. Rates such as 45% and 7.5% are not standard MFN rates for this code but may apply under specific, less common trade regimes or historical classifications. Always consult the latest official tariff schedule for the importing country.
How is the import duty for HS code 550119 calculated?
The import duty for HS code 550119 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 1,000 kilograms of synthetic filament tow valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $5,000 (value) × 4.00% (duty rate) = $200.00 USD. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per kilogram) were applicable, the calculation would be rate per unit × quantity. Always ensure your customs value is correctly determined according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 550119?
HS code 550119 covers 'Other' synthetic filament tow. This means it applies to synthetic filament tow that is not specifically classified under HS codes 5501.10 (which is typically for tow of high tenacity filament yarn of polyesters) or other more specific subheadings within Chapter 55. Filament tow is a large untwisted bundle of continuous synthetic filaments, often used as a precursor for spinning into yarn or for other industrial applications. Classification under 550119 requires that the goods are synthetic, in the form of filament tow, and do not meet the criteria for more specific HS codes within the synthetic filament tow category. Verification of the material composition (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic) and physical form is essential.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 550119?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 550119 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. To claim preferential duty rates under FTAs, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin, compliant with the specific FTA's requirements, is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the synthetic filament tow, additional documents such as a safety data sheet (SDS) or certificates of conformity might be requested to ensure compliance with national regulations.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550119?
Several major trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550119. As indicated by the sample rates, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) often grant duty-free access (0.00%). Other agreements, such as those with Morocco (MA) or Jordan (JO), may also offer reduced or zero duties. Importers must consult the specific text of the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and ensure they meet all rules of origin requirements, including obtaining valid proof of origin, to benefit from these preferential rates. The USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and EU trade agreements are also significant sources of preferential treatment for various goods.