HS 550311 Of nylon or other polyamides
Quick Answer: Synthetic staple fibers of nylon or other polyamides imported under HS 550311 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from 4.3% to 25% ad valorem, with certain trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers staple fibers of nylon or other polyamides, which are short, discontinuous lengths of synthetic polymer fibers, typically used in textiles for clothing, carpets, and industrial applications. Importers should be aware of the varying Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates in the US and the potential for preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503110000 | 4.3% | 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 5503.11?
Imports of Of nylon or other polyamides 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 550311 cover?
This subheading covers staple fibres of nylon or other polyamides, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes synthetic staple fibres derived from nylon or other polyamides that have not undergone further preparation beyond cutting or crimping, making them suitable for immediate use in the production of yarns. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the raw, unspun form of these synthetic fibres.
What falls outside HS 550311?
The following products are excluded from HS 550311: continuous filament tow of nylon or other polyamides (classified under HS 5501), carded, combed, or otherwise processed staple fibres of nylon or other polyamides (classified under HS 5504), and yarns or fabrics made from these fibres. For instance, spun yarn of nylon would fall under HS 5507, and woven fabric of nylon would be classified in Chapter 54. The key distinction is the state of processing; HS 550311 refers to the raw staple fibre form only.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550311?
A common error is misclassifying processed or spun fibres under this subheading. For example, if the nylon staple fibre has been carded or combed, it would be classified under HS 5504, not HS 550311. This often occurs due to a misunderstanding of the processing stages outlined in the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, particularly GRI 3(b) which addresses mixtures and composite goods, and GRI 6 which pertains to the classification of goods at the subheading level. Ensuring the fibre is in its raw, unspun staple form is critical.
How should importers classify products under HS 550311?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550311 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and processing stage. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the material is indeed nylon or another polyamide staple fibre and that it has not been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO are essential steps to confirm the correct classification and avoid discrepancies.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550311?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of nylon staple fibre, 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 value ($5,000 USD × 0.03 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 550311.90.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550311?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550311, 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. Additionally, preferences under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may apply for certain developing countries, potentially offering reduced or Free rates. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 550311, covering synthetic staple fibers of nylon or other polyamides?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550311 is 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating 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 receive duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement to determine the correct duty rate. Refer to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule for detailed information.
How is the import duty for HS code 550311 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 550311 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if synthetic staple fibers of nylon are imported with a declared customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 4.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.04 = $400.00. Always ensure accurate valuation and refer to the specific duty rate applicable to the country of origin and import.
What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 550311?
HS code 550311 specifically covers synthetic staple fibers of nylon or other polyamides. The key criteria for classification include: 1. Material Composition: The fibers must be made of nylon or other polyamides. 2. Form: They must be in the form of staple fibers, meaning they are cut to a specific length or produced in a manner that results in fibers of limited length, suitable for spinning into yarn. This distinguishes them from continuous filament yarns. 3. Non-textured: Generally, these fibers are not textured. Refer to Chapter 55 notes and the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) for detailed definitions and distinctions.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 550311?
When importing goods under HS code 550311, standard import documentation is required. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product data sheets to substantiate the classification as nylon or polyamide staple fibers, especially if requested by customs authorities. Consult with your customs broker for a comprehensive checklist based on your specific import scenario.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550311 into the United States?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550311 into the United States. Notably, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) often benefit from reduced or duty-free entry. Examples include agreements with Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Australia (AU), which may offer 'Free' entry under specific conditions outlined in the respective agreements. Importers must ensure they meet all rules of origin requirements stipulated by the trade agreement and possess a valid certificate of origin. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provides the most up-to-date details on preferential rates and applicable trade agreements.