HS 550912 Multiple (folded) or cabled yarn
Quick Answer: Yarn of synthetic staple fibres, multiple (folded) or cabled, imported under HS 550912 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.00%, and the US at 10.6% under the MFN rate, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically covers synthetic staple fibre yarns that have been twisted together to form multiple strands or cabled. Importers should be aware of the varying duty rates across major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, careful consideration of the specific yarn construction and origin is crucial for accurate classification and duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509120000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509120000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509120000 | 10.6% | 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 5509.12?
Imports of Multiple (folded) or cabled yarn 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 550912 cover?
This subheading covers multiple (folded) or cabled yarn of synthetic staple fibres, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. This includes yarns where two or more single yarns have been twisted together, or where a single yarn has been folded back on itself and twisted. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further clarify that these yarns are typically intended for retail sale or for further manufacturing, and are distinct from single yarns classified elsewhere in heading 5509.
What falls outside HS 550912?
The following products are excluded from HS 550912: single yarns of synthetic staple fibres (classified under HS 550911), yarns of artificial staple fibres, yarns of silk, wool, fine animal hair, cotton, or other vegetable fibres, and sewing thread, cordage, ropes, and cables. For instance, a single strand of polyester yarn, even if intended for cabling later, would not fall under this subheading. Similarly, yarns that have been specifically prepared for retail sale as sewing thread are classified under their own specific headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550912?
A common error is misinterpreting the "multiple (folded) or cabled" requirement. Importers may mistakenly classify single yarns that are simply wound together without being twisted as "cabled." According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. If a yarn is not genuinely folded or cabled, it should be classified as a single yarn under HS 550911, even if it is presented in a multi-ply format for convenience.
How should importers classify products under HS 550912?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550912 involves a thorough examination of the yarn's construction. Importers and customs brokers must verify if the yarn consists of two or more single yarns twisted together or folded back and twisted. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If the yarn is indeed multiple or cabled and made of synthetic staple fibres, then 550912 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550912?
A 100 kg shipment of "cabled polyester yarn, 2-ply, 500 denier" declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 10% = $50.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 550912.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550912?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550912, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, yarns originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. Additionally, certain developing countries may benefit from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) offered by various importing nations, potentially resulting in preferential rates or duty-free entry, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550912, covering multiple (folded) or cabled yarn of synthetic staple fibers?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550912 can vary significantly by country. For instance, the United States applies a rate of 4.00% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC system may show different rates depending on the specific type of synthetic fiber and origin. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also provides specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. For example, the US rate is 4.00% ad valorem.
How is the import duty for HS code 550912 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate for HS code 550912 is 4.00% ad valorem, and the declared customs value of a shipment of folded or cabled synthetic staple fiber yarn is $10,000 USD, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 4.00% = $400 USD. Always ensure accurate valuation and apply the correct duty rate.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 550912, and what distinguishes it from single yarn?
HS code 550912 specifically covers yarn that is either 'folded' (two or more single yarns twisted together) or 'cabled' (three or more single yarns twisted together). The key distinction from single yarn (typically classified under HS 5509.11) lies in the construction: the yarn must comprise multiple individual strands twisted or plied together. The constituent material must be synthetic staple fibers, such as polyester, nylon, or acrylic, with each single yarn measuring more than 67 decitex (dtex) and having a total linear density (of the folded or cabled yarn) of more than 83.3 decitex (dtex).
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550912, and what documentation is needed?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in 'Free' entry or significantly reduced tariffs. Examples include agreements with 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. To claim preferential treatment, importers or their customs brokers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin that meets the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement. This document proves that the goods originate from a country that is a party to the agreement.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and packing list for importing goods under HS code 550912?
Beyond the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, specific documentation for HS code 550912 may include a Certificate of Origin, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement. Some countries may also require a declaration from the manufacturer or exporter specifying the fiber content, yarn construction (folded/cabled), and linear density (dtex) to confirm correct HS classification. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific import regulations of the destination country with the customs authority or a licensed customs broker in that country.