HS 550330 Acrylic or modacrylic

Quick Answer: Acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers, not carded or combed, imported under HS 550330 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 25% ad valorem depending on the country of origin. This classification specifically covers synthetic fibers derived from acrylic or modacrylic polymers, processed into short, discontinuous lengths but not yet prepared for spinning into yarn. Importers should be aware of preferential trade agreements that may impact US duty rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for precise origin documentation to benefit from reduced tariffs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5503300000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5503300000 4.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5503300000 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 5503.30?

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

US$37.7M
ImportsExports

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 550330 cover?

This subheading covers acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this category specifically includes synthetic staple fibres derived from polymers such as polyacrylonitrile or copolymers containing at least 85% by weight of acrylonitrile. These fibres are characterized by their discontinuous length, intended for subsequent processing into yarn.

What falls outside HS 550330?

The following products are excluded from HS 550330: acrylic or modacrylic fibres that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed to prepare them for spinning, as these would fall under HS 5504. Also excluded are continuous filament tow of acrylic or modacrylic (HS 5501), and acrylic or modacrylic spun yarn (Chapter 51 or 54). Furthermore, fibres of other synthetic materials, such as polyester or nylon, are classified under different headings within Chapter 55.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 550330?

A common error is the misclassification of acrylic or modacrylic fibres that have undergone some degree of processing beyond the raw staple fibre stage. For instance, fibres that have been carded or combed to align them for spinning are typically classified under HS 5504. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial to avoid such mistakes.

How should importers classify products under HS 550330?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550330 involves a thorough examination of the material's composition and processing. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the fibres are indeed acrylic or modacrylic, meaning they are derived from polymers containing at least 85% acrylonitrile by weight. Crucially, they must verify that the fibres are in staple form and have not been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as per the WCO HS nomenclature.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550330?

A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of acrylic staple fibre, 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 value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 550330.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550330?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550330, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and originating country.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 550630 HS 550130 HS 600330 HS 550340 HS 550961 HS 551521

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 550330 (Acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers, not carded or combed)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550330, which covers acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers, not carded or combed, is typically 4.3% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade schemes, countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and others may offer duty-free entry (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and compliance with rules of origin.

How is the duty calculated for HS 550330, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS code 550330 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.3%, and you import 1,000 kilograms of acrylic staple fiber with a declared customs value of $2,500 USD, the duty calculation would be: 4.3% of $2,500 USD = $107.50 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the applicable duty calculation method in the destination country's tariff schedule.

What are the key classification criteria for HS code 550330?

HS code 550330 specifically covers 'Acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers, not carded or combed'. The key criteria for classification are: 1. Material Composition: The fibers must be made of acrylic polymers (polyacrylonitrile) or modacrylic polymers (copolymers where the polymer contains at least 35% but less than 85% of acrylonitrile units by weight). 2. Form: The material must be in the form of staple fibers, which are short, discrete lengths of fiber. 3. Condition: The fibers must not be carded or combed. Carding and combing are processes that align and prepare fibers for spinning. If the fibers have undergone these processes, they would be classified under a different HS code (e.g., 5505).

What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 550330?

When importing acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers under HS code 550330, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the quantity, description, unit price, and total value of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; a bill of lading or air waybill as proof of shipment; and a certificate of origin. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a specific preferential certificate of origin (e.g., Form A, EUR.1, or a declaration on the invoice, depending on the agreement) will be mandatory. Importers should also be prepared for potential requests for technical specifications or material safety data sheets (MSDS) to verify the fiber composition.

Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550330?

Several major trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free (0.00%) entry for HS code 550330, provided the goods meet the rules of origin. Examples include:

  • USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): If the fibers meet the specific rules of origin for textiles and apparel under USMCA.
  • EU Free Trade Agreements: The EU's network of FTAs with countries like South Korea, Canada, Japan, and others often include provisions for reduced or zero duties on such goods.
  • UK Global Tariff: The UK offers preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which it has trade agreements.
  • ASEAN Trade Agreements: Agreements within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
  • Bilateral FTAs: Many countries have specific bilateral agreements that may grant preferential access. It is essential for importers to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant trade agreement text to confirm eligibility and compliance requirements.