HS 550320 Of polyesters
Quick Answer: Polyester staple fibers imported under HS 5503.20 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates varying from Free to 25% depending on the country of origin. This HS code specifically covers synthetic staple fibers of polyesters, excluding those that are carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities across major trading blocs. For instance, preferential trade agreements can lead to duty-free entry into the US for qualifying origins. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based rates for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503200000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5503200025 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5503200045 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5503200065 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 55032000 | 4.3% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5503200015 | — | — | ["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 5503.20?
Imports of Of polyesters 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 550320 cover?
This subheading covers synthetic staple fibers of polyesters, not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes fibers derived from polyester polymers, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), that are cut into staple lengths. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are raw, unfinished fibers intended for further processing into yarns or fabrics, excluding those that have undergone significant preparatory treatments for spinning.
What falls outside HS 550320?
The following products are excluded from HS 550320: polyester fibers that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed to prepare them for spinning, as these fall under HS 5504. Also excluded are continuous filament tow of polyesters (HS 5501), spun yarns of polyesters (Chapter 50-60), and polyester wadding or batting (HS 5601). Furthermore, polyester fibers that are felted or non-woven (HS 5602) or made into specific articles are classified elsewhere, distinct from the raw staple fiber form.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550320?
A common error is misclassifying polyester staple fibers that have undergone minor processing for spinning, such as crimping or slight drawing, as falling under HS 550320. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) and GIR 3(b) are crucial here; if a product is described by more than one heading, the heading providing the most specific description shall be preferred. Fibers prepared for spinning are considered more specifically described under headings that account for such preparation, rather than the raw staple fiber classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 550320?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550320 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the polyester staple fibers are indeed in a state not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as per the WCO Explanatory Notes. Consulting the specific national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing any relevant chapter or section notes is essential to confirm the precise classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550320?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of polyester staple fiber (HS 550320) declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $450.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 3.0% × $15,000 USD = $450.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550320?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550320, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying polyester staple fibers originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying products from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```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 550320 (synthetic staple fibres of polyesters)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550320, which covers synthetic staple fibres of polyesters, is typically 4.3% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates can 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-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA - formerly NAFTA) may receive free (0.00%) entry. It is crucial to consult the latest US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates based on the country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS code 550320 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550320 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if polyester staple fibres are imported into the U.S. with an MFN duty rate of 4.3% and the declared customs value is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.043 (Duty Rate) = $430.00 (Duty Amount). Always ensure your customs value is accurate and supported by proper documentation, such as commercial invoices and bills of lading.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 550320?
HS code 550320 specifically covers synthetic staple fibres of polyesters. This means the fibres must be man-made, derived from polyester polymers, and cut into lengths suitable for spinning into yarn. The fibres are typically characterized by their uniformity in length, fineness, and strength. Exclusions might include continuous filament tow (classified under 5501) or fibres that have undergone further processing beyond simple cutting, such as crimping or texturizing, which might lead to different classifications. Verification of the material's composition and physical form is essential for correct classification.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550320?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in free entry (0.00%), for HS code 550320. Key agreements include the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which allows for duty-free treatment for qualifying goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Other agreements, such as those with Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), also frequently grant preferential access. Importers must ensure that the polyester staple fibres meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 550320?
When importing polyester staple fibres under HS code 550320, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a valid Certificate of Origin or other acceptable proof of origin documentation specific to that agreement is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or lab reports if Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requests verification of the material's composition or classification.