HS 550810 Of synthetic staple fibres
Quick Answer: Yarn of synthetic staple fibres imported under HS 5508.10 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 4.00% (Most Favoured Nation), and the US at 11.4% (Most Favoured Nation). This classification covers spun yarns made from man-made staple fibres, such as polyester or nylon, intended for textile manufacturing. Importers should be aware of potential preferential rates available in the US for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the varying tariff burdens across major markets for this product category.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5508100000 | — | — | — |
| 5508101000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 5508109000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5508101000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5508109000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 5508100000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5508100000 | 11.4% | 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 5508.10?
Imports of Of synthetic staple fibres 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 550810 cover?
This subheading covers sewing thread of synthetic staple fibres, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. This includes threads made from man-made staple fibres such as polyester, nylon, or acrylic, which have been spun into yarn and prepared for use in sewing. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that these threads must be specifically presented for sewing purposes, distinguishing them from general-purpose yarns.
What falls outside HS 550810?
The following products are excluded from HS 550810: sewing thread of natural staple fibres (e.g., cotton or wool), sewing thread of artificial staple fibres (e.g., rayon), and sewing thread not specifically prepared for sewing, such as bulk yarn or thread for industrial winding. For instance, a spool of 100% polyester yarn intended for knitting would be classified under a different heading, typically within Chapter 54 or 55, but not under 5508.10.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550810?
A common error is misclassifying sewing thread made from blends of synthetic and natural staple fibres, or those made from continuous synthetic filaments. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are presented in sets for retail sale, they are classified according to the component that gives them their essential character; however, for sewing thread, the primary material dictates classification. Threads made from continuous filaments are typically classified under HS 5509.
How should importers classify products under HS 550810?
The correct procedure for classifying sewing thread under HS 550810 involves verifying the fibre content and its preparation for sewing. Importers and customs brokers must consult the product's technical specifications to confirm it is made from synthetic staple fibres and is presented as sewing thread. Cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550810?
A spool of 100% polyester sewing thread weighing 50 grams and declared at a customs value of $10.00 USD would attract a US duty of $0.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($10.00 USD × 5.0% = $0.50). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 5508.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550810?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550810, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Mexico or Canada. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for goods from designated developing countries. For USMCA, a self-certified origin statement is typically required; for GSP, a Form A certificate of origin is often necessary.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550810, 'Yarn of synthetic staple fibres, not put up for retail sale'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550810 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system often shows a rate of 0.00% ad valorem for this code. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists a standard rate of 0.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for HS code 550810 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 550810 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of synthetic staple fiber yarn valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 3.5%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the duty calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key criteria for classifying yarn under HS code 550810, and what documentation is needed?
To classify yarn under HS code 550810, it must be made from synthetic staple fibers (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic) that have been cut to a specific length, rather than continuous filament. The yarn should not be put up for retail sale (e.g., in small skeins or packages for direct consumer purchase). Required documentation typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the fiber content, staple length, and put-up, a packing list, and a bill of lading. A certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550810, and how can importers benefit?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550810. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), yarn originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from duty-free entry into the US. Similarly, agreements like the EU's with various partner countries (e.g., Generalized System of Preferences) or bilateral agreements (e.g., with South Korea) can reduce or eliminate duties. To benefit, importers must ensure the yarn meets the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or origin declaration.
Are there specific requirements for 'synthetic staple fibres' versus other types of yarn that would affect HS classification under 550810?
Yes, the defining characteristic for HS code 550810 is that the yarn is made from 'synthetic staple fibres'. This means the synthetic material (like polyester, nylon, acrylic, or regenerated cellulose like viscose) has been manufactured into short lengths (staple fibers), analogous to natural fibers like cotton or wool. This is distinct from 'synthetic filament yarn' (HS 5402), which is made from continuous strands extruded directly from the polymer. Importers must be able to verify the fiber type and form (staple vs. filament) through product specifications or laboratory analysis if required by customs.