HS 550130 Acrylic or modacrylic
Quick Answer: Acrylic or modacrylic tow enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 45% ad valorem, depending on the country of origin. This HS code specifically covers continuous filament tow of acrylic or modacrylic synthetic fibres. Importers should be aware of preferential trade agreements that may impact US duty rates, such as those with Australia, South Korea, and Singapore, which often grant duty-free entry. Exporters should verify the specific tariff treatment applicable to their destination market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501300000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501300090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 55013000 | 7.5% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5501300010 | — | — | ["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 5501.30?
Imports of Acrylic or modacrylic 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 550130 cover?
This subheading covers tow of acrylic or modacrylic, which are synthetic staple fibers that have been processed into a continuous untwisted strand. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these materials are specifically defined as continuous filaments of acrylic or modacrylic polymers, prepared for spinning into yarn. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes these prepared fibers, ready for further manufacturing into textiles, excluding those already spun into yarn or woven into fabric.
What falls outside HS 550130?
The following products are excluded from HS 550130: acrylic or modacrylic fibers that have not been processed into tow, such as loose staple fibers, are classified under HS 5506. Additionally, acrylic or modacrylic yarns (HS 5508) and fabrics (Chapter 50-55, specific headings) are distinct classifications. Single filaments or strands not prepared as tow for spinning, or fibers that have undergone significant processing beyond the tow stage, will not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550130?
A common error is misclassifying loose staple fibers as tow, or vice versa. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify tow that has been lightly twisted or is intended for direct use without further spinning as yarn, when it still meets the definition of tow under this heading.
How should importers classify products under HS 550130?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550130 involves verifying that the material is indeed a continuous untwisted strand of acrylic or modacrylic fibers prepared for spinning. Importers and customs brokers should consult the product's technical specifications and compare them against the definitions provided in the WCO HS Nomenclature and national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550130?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of acrylic tow, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550130?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550130, 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. For goods originating from certain developing countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates. To claim these preferences, a valid GSP Form A or a self-certified origin statement, as per the specific agreement's requirements, is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550130 (Acrylic or modacrylic tow)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550130 is generally 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the importing country has trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, the duty rate can be Free (0.00%). 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. For instance, the USITC tariff schedule and the EU TARIC database provide detailed rate information.
How is the import duty for HS 550130 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550130 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and the declared value of a shipment of acrylic tow is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 4.00% (duty rate) = $400 USD. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 550130?
HS code 550130 specifically covers 'Acrylic or modacrylic tow'. Tow refers to a continuous untwisted strand of synthetic fibers, usually intended for further processing into yarn or other textile materials. The key classification criterion is that the fibers must be acrylic or modacrylic (polymers of acrylonitrile, often with a second monomer to modify properties). The material must be in the form of tow, not spun yarn or staple fibers. The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide further guidance on the definition and characteristics of tow.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550130?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550130. Examples include agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement), and various bilateral agreements the EU has with countries like South Korea, Canada, and Japan. The specific preferential rate depends on the agreement and whether the acrylic or modacrylic tow originates from the partner country and meets the rules of origin stipulated in that agreement. Importers should consult the tariff database of the importing country (e.g., UK Trade Tariff for the UK) for a comprehensive list of applicable agreements and rates.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 550130?
When importing goods under HS code 550130, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin, compliant with the specific agreement's rules, is essential. Depending on the importing country's regulations, additional documents like a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) might be requested. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete to facilitate smooth customs clearance.