HS 550690 Other
Quick Answer: Synthetic staple fibers, not carded or combed, not spun, and not otherwise specified within Chapter 55, imported under HS 550690 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 5% ad valorem (with preferential rates for certain Free Trade Agreement partners and a higher rate of 51.5% for others). This residual classification applies to synthetic staple fibers that do not fit into more specific subheadings. Importers and customs brokers should verify the exact origin and intended use of the fibers to ensure correct classification and application of any applicable preferential duty rates, as detailed on platforms like CustomTariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5506900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5506900010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5506900090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5506900000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5506900010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5506900090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5506900100 | 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 5506.90?
Imports of Other 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 550690 cover?
This subheading covers other synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, that do not fall under preceding subheadings of heading 5506. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes synthetic staple fibers that have undergone processes beyond carding and combing, but are not yet prepared for spinning into yarn. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC database provide further detail, generally encompassing fibers that have been cut, crimped, or otherwise treated but are not spun, woven, or knitted.
What falls outside HS 550690?
The following products are excluded from HS 550690: synthetic staple fibers that are carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning (classified under 5506.10 to 5506.80), as well as spun yarns of synthetic staple fibers (Chapter 50-55), woven fabrics (Chapter 50-55), and knitted or crocheted fabrics (Chapter 60). For instance, polyester staple fiber that has been carded into sliver would be classified elsewhere, not under this "other" residual category.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550690?
A common error is misinterpreting the level of processing. Importers may incorrectly classify synthetic staple fibers that have undergone further processing, such as being spun into yarn or tufted into carpets, under this subheading. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product fits a more specific heading or subheading, it should be classified there, not in a residual "other" category.
How should importers classify products under HS 550690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550690 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and the extent of its processing. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official WCO HS Nomenclature, as well as national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to ensure the product is not specifically provided for in a more precise subheading. Verification of the fiber type (synthetic) and the absence of spinning preparation is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550690?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of acrylic staple fiber, not carded or combed, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem, the duty would be $92.50 ($2,500 USD × 0.037). This calculation is based on the declared value and the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for heading 5506.90.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550690?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550690, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. Documentation typically required includes a USMCA certification of origin or a CPTPP certificate of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550690 (Other synthetic staple fibers, not carded or combed)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550690 in the United States is 5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). 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 others may receive duty-free treatment (Free). It is crucial to verify the specific origin of the goods and the applicable FTA to determine the correct duty rate. Always consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current and precise rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 550690 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550690 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 5% and the declared value of the imported synthetic staple fibers is $10,000, the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.05 (Duty Rate) = $500 (Duty Amount). If a specific duty rate (e.g., per kilogram) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties applies, the calculation would be adjusted accordingly. Always refer to the HTSUS for the exact duty calculation method.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 550690?
When importing goods under HS code 550690, standard import documentation is generally required. 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 as the transport document. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under an FTA, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin, compliant with the specific FTA's requirements, is mandatory. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product literature if Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requests further verification of classification.
What are the classification criteria for synthetic staple fibers to fall under HS code 550690?
HS code 550690 covers 'Other' synthetic staple fibers, not carded or combed. This means that synthetic fibers that do not meet the specific criteria for other subheadings within Chapter 55 (e.g., carded or combed staple fibers of polyester, polyamide, acrylic, etc.) will be classified here. The key criteria are that the fibers must be synthetic (man-made from chemical substances), in staple form (short lengths), and not processed beyond the initial extrusion and cutting/breaking, specifically not carded or combed. If the fibers have undergone carding or combing, they would typically fall under HS code 5506.10 (carded or combed) or other relevant headings depending on further processing.
Which common trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550690 into the United States?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 550690 into the United States. Notably, the United States has FTAs 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). Under these agreements, goods that meet the rules of origin criteria can often be imported duty-free. It is essential for importers to obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter in the partner country and ensure compliance with all FTA requirements to benefit from these reduced or eliminated duties.