HS 550969 Other
Quick Answer: Yarn of other synthetic staple fibres, not carded or combed, imported under HS 550969 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.00%, and the US at a MFN rate of 9%, with significant duty-free access for certain trade partners. This residual category encompasses synthetic staple fibre yarns not otherwise specified, such as those made from acrylic or modacrylic fibres, when they are not carded or combed. Importers should verify specific country of origin and applicable Free Trade Agreements for potential preferential duty rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise classification for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509690000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509690000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 550969 | — | — | — |
| 5509692000 | 9% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 5509694000 | 10% | Free (14 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 5509696000 | 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 5509.69?
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 550969 cover?
This subheading covers other synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, that are not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings of heading 5509. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this category is a residual one for synthetic staple fibres where the specific type of fibre or its processing does not align with more detailed classifications within heading 5509. For example, it would include certain acrylic or polyester staple fibres that do not meet the criteria for other specific subheadings.
What falls outside HS 550969?
The following products are excluded from HS 550969: synthetic staple fibres that are carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as these fall under different subheadings within 5509. Additionally, continuous filament tow of synthetic fibres, as well as yarns of synthetic staple fibres, are classified elsewhere in Chapter 55. For instance, 100% polyester staple fibre intended for direct spinning into yarn would not be classified here, nor would acrylic tow.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550969?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation, leading to the incorrect classification of synthetic staple fibres that actually fit into more specific subheadings within HS 5509. This often occurs when the degree of processing or the specific polymer composition is not fully understood. For example, fibres that have undergone a degree of carding or combing, even if minimal, may be mistakenly placed here, violating General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(a) which prioritizes more specific headings.
How should importers classify products under HS 550969?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550969 involves a thorough examination of the product's characteristics against the WCO HS Nomenclature and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the product is a synthetic staple fibre. If it is, they must then ascertain if it has been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. If it is not specifically covered by a more precise subheading within 5509, then 550969 becomes the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550969?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of undyed, unbleached acrylic staple fibre, 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 declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 550969.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550969?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550969, 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 reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP-eligible countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550969, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 550969 covers "Other" synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce this. For example, under certain Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) such as those 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, the goods may be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin and have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 550969?
HS code 550969 is a residual category for synthetic staple fibers that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 55. The key criteria are: 1) The material must be synthetic (man-made fibers produced by chemical synthesis, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc.). 2) The fibers must be in staple lengths (short lengths, typically under 5 cm, suitable for spinning into yarn). 3) They must not be carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning beyond basic preparation. If the fibers have undergone significant processing like carding or combing, they would likely be classified under a more specific subheading (e.g., 5503 series). Importers should consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance on distinguishing between different stages of fiber processing.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 550969?
Standard import documentation for HS code 550969 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under FTAs, a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin on the invoice, compliant with the specific FTA's requirements, is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional documents like a safety data sheet (SDS) or quality certificates might be requested. Customs brokers should ensure all documentation accurately reflects the goods' description, quantity, value, and country of origin to avoid delays or penalties.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 550969, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 550969 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 1,000 kilograms of synthetic staple fiber valued at $2,000 USD (customs value), the duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty Amount = $2,000 USD × 4.00% = $80 USD. Some countries may also have specific duties (e.g., per kilogram) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the official tariff schedule of the importing country for the precise calculation method and applicable rates.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550969, and what are the implications for importers?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 550969. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Under these agreements, synthetic staple fibers classified as 'Other' may be eligible for duty-free entry. The implication for importers is a significant cost saving on duties. However, to benefit, importers must meticulously comply with the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement and provide valid proof of origin. Failure to do so will result in the standard MFN duty rate being applied.