HS 551011 Containing 85 % or more by weight of artificial staple fibres
Quick Answer: Yarn of artificial staple fibres containing 85% or more by weight of artificial staple fibres enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 4.00% ad valorem, and the US at 54% ad valorem (MFN rate), with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically covers spun yarns made from man-made staple fibres, such as those derived from regenerated cellulose (like viscose or rayon) or synthetic polymers (like polyester or nylon), provided the artificial staple fibre content is dominant. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities between major trading blocs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific rates based on origin and destination.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5510110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5510110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5510110000 | 9% | 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 5510.11?
Imports of Containing 85 % or more by weight of artificial staple fibres 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 551011 cover?
This subheading covers yarns of artificial staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of artificial staple fibres. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes yarns made from man-made staple fibres, such as regenerated cellulose (e.g., viscose, rayon) or synthetic fibres (e.g., polyester, nylon) cut into short lengths. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system confirm that the key determinant is the weight percentage of artificial staple fibres, which must be 85% or more.
What falls outside HS 551011?
The following products are excluded from HS 551011: yarns containing less than 85% by weight of artificial staple fibres, yarns of artificial filament, and yarns of natural fibres or synthetic staple fibres not meeting the 85% threshold. For instance, yarns predominantly of cotton or wool, or yarns that are a blend where artificial staple fibres constitute less than 85% of the total weight, would be classified elsewhere, often in headings 5509 or 5511 for other types of yarns.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551011?
A common error is misinterpreting "artificial staple fibres" versus "synthetic staple fibres" or "artificial filament." General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) for the HS states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify yarns of synthetic staple fibres (e.g., polyester staple) as artificial if they do not verify the specific definition of "artificial" versus "synthetic" as per Chapter 55 notes, or if they fail to accurately determine the weight percentage of the fibres.
How should importers classify products under HS 551011?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551011 involves a two-step process: first, determine the fibre composition by weight, ensuring artificial staple fibres constitute 85% or more. Second, confirm that the product is indeed a yarn and not a thread or cordage. Importers and customs brokers must obtain accurate fibre composition declarations from manufacturers and consult the relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, for definitive classification guidance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551011?
A batch of 100 kilograms of viscose staple fibre yarn, 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) rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 3.5% = $17.50). However, if the yarn were valued at $1,000 USD, the duty would be $35.00 ($1,000 USD × 3.5% = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551011?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551011, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries. Under USMCA, qualifying yarns originating from Mexico or Canada may be admitted duty-free. For GSP beneficiaries, preferential rates can be as low as 0% or a reduced percentage. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP-eligible countries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551011, which covers yarns of artificial staple fibres containing 85% or more by weight of artificial staple fibres?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551011 is typically 5.4% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements with the importing nation. For example, under certain trade agreements, duty rates can be Free (0.00%) 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), and others. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff, for the definitive rate applicable to your origin country.
How is the classification of yarn under HS code 551011 determined, specifically regarding the '85% or more by weight of artificial staple fibres' criterion?
The classification under HS code 551011 hinges on the fibre composition. The yarn must contain 85% or more, by weight, of artificial staple fibres. Artificial staple fibres are short lengths of man-made fibres, typically produced by cutting continuous filament man-made fibres or by regenerating natural polymers (like cellulose from wood pulp) into fibres. Importers must ensure their commercial documentation, such as the commercial invoice and packing list, accurately declares this fibre content. Laboratory testing may be required if the fibre content is uncertain or disputed by customs authorities.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 551011?
Standard import documentation for HS code 551011 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, the commercial invoice must clearly state the fibre composition, confirming it meets the 85% or more by weight threshold for artificial staple fibres. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin on the invoice, compliant with the specific agreement's requirements, is mandatory. Always verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
Can you provide an example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 551011?
Certainly. Let's assume an importer is bringing in 1,000 kilograms of yarn classified under HS code 551011, and the applicable Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 5.4% ad valorem. The customs value of the imported yarn is $2,000 USD. The duty calculation would be as follows: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $2,000 USD × 5.4% = $108 USD. If the duty were based on a specific rate per weight (though less common for this code), the calculation would be Rate per kg × Quantity (kg) = Duty Amount. For ad valorem duties, the value of the goods is paramount.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551011, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in Free (0.00%) entry for HS code 551011. Examples include agreements between the United States and countries like Chile (USCMA), South Korea (KORUS), and others. The European Union has its Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that can impact duties. Similarly, the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. To verify eligibility, importers must confirm the 'rules of origin' stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. This typically involves ensuring the goods are 'wholly obtained' in the partner country or have undergone sufficient 'substantial transformation' as defined by the agreement. A valid Certificate of Origin is usually required as proof.