HS 550952 Mixed mainly or solely with wool or fine animal hair

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What products does HS 550952 cover?

This subheading covers synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, that are mixed mainly or solely with wool or fine animal hair. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this classification is determined by the predominant fibre content, where synthetic fibres constitute the majority of the mixture, and the presence of wool or fine animal hair is a significant component. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the key criterion is the blend composition, specifically the dominance of synthetic fibres alongside wool or fine animal hair.

What falls outside HS 550952?

The following products are excluded from HS 550952: yarns where wool or fine animal hair is the predominant fibre, or where the synthetic fibre content is not the main component. Also excluded are yarns composed solely of synthetic fibres, or those mixed with other vegetable or man-made fibres in proportions that do not meet the criteria of being "mainly or solely with wool or fine animal hair." For instance, a yarn predominantly of polyester mixed with a small percentage of wool would not fall under this code, nor would a yarn of pure wool or pure synthetic staple fibre.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 550952?

A common error is misinterpreting the "mainly or solely" criterion, leading to incorrect classification when the fibre composition is not clearly defined or when the percentage of wool or fine animal hair is not accurately determined. This can occur when the synthetic fibre content is only slightly above 50% or when other fibres are present in significant quantities. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods is crucial, ensuring the classification is based on the essential character of the goods, which in this case is the blend of synthetic fibres with wool or fine animal hair.

How should importers classify products under HS 550952?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550952 involves a thorough analysis of the fibre composition of the yarn. Importers and customs brokers must obtain precise percentage breakdowns of all fibres present in the yarn. The primary determinant is whether synthetic staple fibres are the predominant component, mixed with wool or fine animal hair. Verification against the official nomenclature and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is essential to confirm the correct subheading and any associated duty rates or import requirements.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550952?

A batch of 100 kilograms of a polyester-wool blend yarn (HS 550952) declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 3.5% of $500 USD = $17.50. If the yarn were classified under a specific quantity-based duty, for example, $0.35 per kilogram, the duty would be $0.35/kg * 100 kg = $35.00. This example uses a hypothetical quantity-based rate for illustrative purposes, as actual rates vary by jurisdiction and are published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550952?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550952. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), yarns originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. Similarly, yarns originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive preferential treatment, often resulting in a Free duty rate. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a GSP Form A, depending on the specific agreement and originating country, such as Mexico or a designated GSP beneficiary nation.

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