HS 550510 Of synthetic fibres
Quick Answer: Waste, parings, and shoddy of synthetic fibres imported under HS 550510 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at Free or 10% ad valorem depending on the specific product. This classification covers materials derived from synthetic fibres that are no longer in their original usable form, such as manufacturing waste or reclaimed fibres. Importers should consult specific national tariff schedules for precise duty rates, as variations exist within the US. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5505100000 | — | — | — |
| 5505101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5505101010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5505103000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5505105000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5505100000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5505101000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5505101010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5505101090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5505103000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5505100060 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 55051000 | Free | — | — |
| 5505100020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5505100040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 550510 cover?
This subheading covers certain waste, parings, and shoddy of synthetic fibres, specifically those that have been carded or combed. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is for materials derived from synthetic staple fibres that have undergone processing to align the fibres, preparing them for further manufacturing. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to processed waste materials, not raw synthetic fibres.
What falls outside HS 550510?
The following products are excluded from HS 550510: raw synthetic staple fibres (classified under HS 5503), synthetic staple fibres that are carded or combed but not yet waste or parings (classified under HS 550520), and finished or semi-finished textile articles made from synthetic fibres, even if they contain waste materials. For instance, non-woven fabrics or yarns made from processed synthetic fibre waste would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 56 or Chapter 50-54 depending on the specific product and its processing stage.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550510?
A common error is misclassifying raw or uncarded/uncombed synthetic fibre waste under this subheading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. HS 550510 specifically requires the waste, parings, and shoddy to have been carded or combed. Confusing this with raw synthetic staple fibres (HS 5503) or other forms of synthetic fibre waste is a frequent oversight.
How should importers classify products under HS 550510?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550510 involves a thorough examination of the material's processing stage and origin. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the material consists of waste, parings, or shoddy derived from synthetic fibres and that these materials have undergone the carding or combing process. Consulting the official HS Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550510?
A bale of polyester fibre waste, carded and combed, weighing 100 kg and declared at a customs value of $200 USD would attract a US duty of $12.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate of 6% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: 6% of $200 USD = $12.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5505.10.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550510?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate is required, typically a self-certified origin statement for USMCA. The specific documentation requirements can vary by jurisdiction and the terms of the agreement.
```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 550510 (Garnetted waste of synthetic fibres)?
Import duty rates for HS code 550510, 'Garnetted waste of synthetic fibres', vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% duty rate under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often has a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty rate. However, other countries may impose duties, such as 4.00% or even 10.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate.
How is HS code 550510 classified, and what are the key criteria for 'garnetted waste'?
HS code 550510 specifically covers 'Garnetted waste of synthetic fibres'. Classification hinges on the material being derived from synthetic fibres (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic) that have undergone a process called 'garnetting'. Garnetting is a mechanical process that breaks down textile waste, such as fabric scraps or yarns, into a fibrous state, similar to the original staple fibres. The resulting material is characterized by its disoriented fibres and is typically used as filling material, in non-woven fabrics, or for insulation. The key is that the material is waste that has been reprocessed into a fibrous form from synthetic sources.
Are there common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550510?
Yes, several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 550510. For instance, imports into the United States from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), may qualify for duty-free entry, even if the general MFN rate is not 0.00%. Similarly, the European Union has numerous preferential trade agreements with third countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods like garnetted waste. Importers should verify if their specific country of origin has an active trade agreement with the destination country that includes provisions for synthetic fibre waste.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 550510?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 550510. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Some jurisdictions might also require a declaration confirming the material composition and that the waste is indeed derived from synthetic fibres. Always check the specific import regulations of the destination country and consult with your customs broker.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 550510 if a duty rate applies?
Import duty calculation for HS code 550510 typically follows an ad valorem system, meaning the duty is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if a country imposes a 4.00% ad valorem duty on HS 550510, and you import 1,000 kilograms of garnetted synthetic fibre waste with a declared customs value of $2,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = 4.00% of $2,000 USD = 0.04 × $2,000 = $80 USD. Some countries might also have specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise calculation method.