HS 550959 Other
Quick Answer: Yarn of synthetic staple fibres, not put up for retail sale, imported under HS 550959 enters the UK at 4.00% ad valorem, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 81% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This residual category encompasses synthetic staple fibre yarns not otherwise specified, such as those made from acrylic or modacrylic fibres, that are not packaged for direct consumer sale. Importers should consult specific trade agreements and the latest tariff schedules, as detailed on platforms like CustomTariffs, to determine applicable duties and any potential trade barriers.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509590000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509590000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509590000 | 13.2% | 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 5509.59?
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 550959 cover?
This subheading covers other synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, that are not single filaments. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is for synthetic staple fibres other than those specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings within heading 5509. For example, this includes certain types of polyester staple fibre or acrylic staple fibre that do not meet the criteria for more specific classifications, often used in the manufacture of textiles and nonwovens.
What falls outside HS 550959?
The following products are excluded from HS 550959: synthetic staple fibres that are carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as well as continuous filament tow. Also excluded are fibres of artificial staple fibres (Chapter 55, Note 1(a)), and fibres that are specifically classified under other subheadings within heading 5509, such as those made from specific polymers like polyester or acrylic if they meet the criteria for those more precise codes. For instance, carded polyester staple fibre would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550959?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation, leading to the classification of processed or spun fibres under this subheading when they should be classified in headings related to yarn (Chapter 50-55) or fabrics (Chapter 50-63). Another mistake involves not correctly identifying the polymer composition of the staple fibre, which can lead to classification under a more specific polymer-based subheading if available. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 3 is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 550959?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550959 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and processing. Importers must confirm that the material is synthetic staple fibre, not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, and not a continuous filament. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, and reviewing explanatory notes is essential to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550959?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of acrylic staple fibre, not carded or combed, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 550959.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550959?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550959, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer preferential rates, often Free, for eligible goods from developing countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 550959, and how do preferential rates apply?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550959 is typically 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For instance, 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 the United States (US) may receive duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to verify the specific origin of the goods and ensure compliance with the rules of origin stipulated in each trade agreement to claim these preferential rates.
What specific criteria determine if a synthetic staple fiber yarn falls under HS code 550959 ('Other')?
HS code 550959 covers 'Other' yarns of synthetic staple fibers, not specifically enumerated elsewhere in heading 5509. This means it applies to yarns of synthetic staple fibers that do not meet the descriptions of other subheadings within 5509, such as those made from specific synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester, polyamide) or those with particular characteristics (e.g., single yarn, multiple or cabled yarn). Classification relies on the material composition and the absence of specific enumerations in preceding subheadings. Consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 550959?
Standard import documentation for HS code 550959 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin on the invoice, compliant with the specific agreement's requirements, is essential. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or material composition data if requested by customs authorities to verify the classification.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 550959, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550959 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 1,000 kilograms of yarn valued at $5,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $5,000 USD × 4.00% = $200 USD. If a specific duty or a combination duty applies, the calculation would differ. Always refer to the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty calculation method.
Which major trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 550959, and what are the general benefits?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550959. Key agreements include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), agreements with countries like South Korea (ROK-US FTA), Chile (CL-US FTA), and others listed in the first FAQ. The general benefit is reduced or eliminated import duties, making goods from partner countries more competitive. For example, under certain agreements, goods originating from partner countries may enter duty-free. It is imperative to obtain a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure compliance with all rules of origin to benefit from these agreements.