HS 550991 Other yarn
Quick Answer: Yarn of synthetic staple fibres, not carded or combed, imported under HS 550991 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.00%, and the US at 12% (MFN). This classification covers synthetic staple fibre yarns that have not undergone carding or combing processes, excluding those made from discontinuous man-made fibres. Significant trade considerations include the substantial MFN duty rate in the US, which contrasts with preferential rates for certain Free Trade Agreement partners. Importers should consult specific tariff schedules for precise rates and any applicable quotas or restrictions. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509910000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509910000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5509910000 | 12% | 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 5509.91?
Imports of Other 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 550991 cover?
This subheading covers other synthetic staple fibres, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning, excluding those of heading 5501 to 5507. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses yarns spun from synthetic staple fibres that do not fall under more specific classifications within heading 5509. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes yarns of artificial staple fibres, such as those made from regenerated cellulose or other synthetic materials, when they are not specifically covered elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 550991?
The following products are excluded from HS 550991: yarns of synthetic staple fibres that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, as these would typically fall under preceding subheadings within heading 5509. Additionally, yarns of artificial staple fibres that are specifically classified under other headings, such as those made from metallic or glass fibres, are not included. For example, pure cotton yarns (Chapter 52) or yarns of man-made filament (Chapter 54) are classified elsewhere and do not belong in this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 550991?
A common error is misclassifying yarns based on their end-use rather than their material composition and processing. For instance, mistaking a yarn intended for a specific textile product for a finished good. Another frequent mistake involves not correctly identifying the type of staple fibre; for example, classifying a yarn of regenerated cellulose under this code when it should be classified as artificial staple fibre. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 550991?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 550991 involves a detailed examination of the yarn's constituent fibres and its processing. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the yarn is made from synthetic staple fibres. Subsequently, they must verify that the yarn is not carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning in a manner that would place it in a more specific subheading. Consulting the official HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 550991?
A 100% polyester spun yarn, weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: 3.5% of $500 USD = $17.50. However, if the yarn is sold by weight and has a specific duty component, that would also apply. For this example, assuming only ad valorem duty, the US duty would be $17.50. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 550991?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 550991, 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 self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, for yarns originating from developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A certificate of origin is often necessary to claim preferential duty rates, which can also be Free for eligible countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 550991 (Other yarn of synthetic staple fibres)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 550991 is typically 4.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under certain trade agreements, duty rates can be Free (e.g., for imports from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG)). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to determine the applicable rate. For instance, the United States applies a 4.00% MFN rate, while the European Union's TARIC system may show different rates depending on the origin and specific provisions. The UK Trade Tariff also provides a detailed breakdown of rates.
How is the duty for HS code 550991 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 550991 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 100 kilograms of yarn valued at $500 USD, the duty calculation would be: 4.00% of $500 USD = $20 USD. If the duty were a specific rate (e.g., per kilogram), the calculation would be rate per unit × quantity. Always ensure your customs value is correctly declared and includes all elements as per customs regulations (e.g., cost, insurance, freight).
What are the classification criteria for HS code 550991?
HS code 550991 covers "Other yarn of synthetic staple fibres, not put up for retail sale." This means it applies to yarns made from synthetic staple fibers (short lengths of synthetic material, like polyester or nylon) that are not packaged for direct sale to consumers. Key classification criteria include: 1. Material Composition: The yarn must primarily consist of synthetic staple fibers. 2. Form: It must be yarn, meaning spun or twisted fibers. 3. Presentation: It must not be put up for retail sale (e.g., in small skeins or retail packages). If the yarn is of synthetic staple fibers and meets these criteria, it falls under this heading. If it were of artificial staple fibres, it would be classified elsewhere (e.g., 5508 or 5510).
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 550991?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 550991. Importers should investigate agreements between the exporting country and the importing country. Examples of agreements that may offer reduced or duty-free access include:
- US Free Trade Agreements (e.g., with Australia, South Korea, Colombia, Peru, Panama, Chile, Morocco, Bahrain, Oman, Singapore, Jordan, Israel).
- European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with various countries.
- UK Free Trade Agreements (e.g., with countries that were previously covered by EU agreements). Always verify the specific origin requirements and rules of origin under each agreement to qualify for preferential treatment. The USITC, EU TARIC, and UK Trade Tariff are excellent resources for checking these provisions.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 550991?
Standard import documentation is required for HS code 550991, which may include:
- Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, total value, and currency.
- Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package, weights, and dimensions.
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: As the contract of carriage.
- Certificate of Origin: Crucial for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This document certifies the country where the goods were manufactured.
- Import Declaration: Submitted to customs authorities. Depending on the importing country and the nature of the goods, additional certifications related to quality, safety, or origin might be requested. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to consult the specific import regulations of the destination country and the requirements of any applicable trade agreement.