HS 550140 Of polypropylene
Quick Answer: Polypropylene filament tow enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 7.5% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This HS code specifically covers continuous filament tow of polypropylene, which are untwisted strands of synthetic fiber grouped together. Importers should be aware of the varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates across major markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of checking specific trade agreements and origin rules for potential duty savings.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501400000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5501400000 | 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 5501.40?
Imports of Of polypropylene 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 550140 cover?
This subheading covers tow of polypropylene, specifically those with a linear density of less than 67 decitex and a number of filaments greater than 2,000, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this category includes continuous filament tow of polypropylene, which are essentially bundles of fine, untwisted synthetic fibers. The EU's TARIC system also aligns with this definition, focusing on the specific physical characteristics of the tow.
What falls outside HS 550140?
The following products are excluded from HS 550140: tow of polypropylene that does not meet the specified linear density of less than 67 decitex or has fewer than 2,000 filaments. Also excluded are spun yarns, single filaments, or other forms of polypropylene fiber that are not presented as continuous tow. For instance, staple fibers, monofilaments, or yarns already spun and twisted would be classified under different headings within Chapter 55 or other relevant chapters, not as tow.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550140?
A common error is misinterpreting the "linear density" and "number of filaments" criteria. Importers may incorrectly classify tow that exceeds the 67 decitex limit or has fewer than 2,000 filaments 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. Incorrectly assuming all polypropylene tow falls under this code without verifying these precise technical specifications leads to misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 550140?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550140 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify the linear density (in decitex) and the total number of filaments within the tow. Consulting the manufacturer's specifications and comparing them against the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550140?
A 100 kg shipment of polypropylene tow, with a linear density of 50 decitex and 10,000 filaments, declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 5501.40.00 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $200 USD = $0.00 USD.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550140?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550140, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in Free duty for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer preferential rates for certain developing countries. Documentation required to claim preference under USMCA typically involves a self-certified origin statement, while GSP may require a Form A certificate of origin.
```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 550140, specifically for "Of polypropylene"?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550140 (Synthetic filament tow, of polypropylene) is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from countries with which the importing nation has trade agreements. 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 the specific preferential rate applicable to your country of origin and ensure compliance with the terms of the relevant trade agreement.
How is the import duty for HS 550140 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550140 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 (kg) of polypropylene filament tow with a declared customs value of $2,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $2,000 USD (value) × 4.00% (duty rate) = $80 USD (duty amount). Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to the relevant valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 550140?
HS code 550140 specifically covers synthetic filament tow of polypropylene. Key classification criteria include: 1. Material: The tow must be made of polypropylene. 2. Form: It must be in the form of 'filament tow,' which consists of a large number of continuous synthetic filaments (typically thousands) loosely assembled by slight cohesion without being spun or twisted. 3. Cross-section: While not explicitly stated in the heading, the filaments are generally continuous and of a single denier. Importers must ensure the product meets these technical specifications to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 550140?
When importing goods under HS code 550140, standard import documentation is required, which usually 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 as the contract of carriage. For preferential duty treatment, a certificate of origin is mandatory, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin for the specific trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product literature if requested by customs authorities to verify the classification.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550140?
Several major trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550140. Based on the provided sample rates, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) are likely to offer reduced or duty-free entry. For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), qualifying goods originating from South Korea would be eligible for preferential treatment. Importers must consult the specific text of each trade agreement and ensure their goods meet the stipulated rules of origin to claim these benefits.