HS 551120 Of synthetic staple fibres, containing less than 85 % by weight of such fibres
Quick Answer: Yarn of synthetic staple fibres, containing less than 85% by weight of such fibres, enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 5.00% ad valorem, and the US at rates varying from 55% ad valorem to free, depending on the country of origin. This classification specifically applies to yarns where synthetic staple fibres are the primary component but do not constitute at least 85% of the weight. Other textile materials, such as cotton or regenerated cellulose, make up the remainder. Importers should carefully verify the exact fibre composition and consult specific trade agreements for preferential duty rates, as CustomTariffs aggregates this information. Customs brokers must ensure accurate declaration of fibre content to avoid misclassification and potential penalties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5511200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5511200000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5511200000 | 7.5% | 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 5511.20?
Imports of Of synthetic staple fibres, containing less than 85 % by weight of such 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 551120 cover?
This subheading covers yarns of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing less than 85% by weight of synthetic staple fibres, mixed predominantly with other fibres. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes yarns where the synthetic staple fibre component is not the primary constituent by weight. For instance, a blend of 70% cotton and 30% polyester staple fibre would fall under this classification, as per the definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU's TARIC database.
What falls outside HS 551120?
The following products are excluded from HS 551120: yarns of synthetic staple fibres containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, which are classified under HS 551110. Also excluded are yarns of artificial staple fibres, pure synthetic staple fibre yarns, and yarns of vegetable fibres. For example, a yarn composed of 90% polyester staple fibre and 10% nylon staple fibre would be classified elsewhere, as would pure cotton yarn or linen yarn, which are governed by different chapters of the HS nomenclature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551120?
A common error is misinterpreting the "less than 85% by weight" criterion. Importers may incorrectly classify yarns with a synthetic staple fibre content just below 85% under the wrong subheading if the predominant fibre is not correctly identified. For example, a yarn with 84% polyester staple fibre and 16% wool staple fibre must be classified under 551120, not a subheading for predominantly synthetic yarns. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 551120?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551120 involves a detailed analysis of the fibre composition by weight. Importers and customs brokers must obtain precise declarations from the manufacturer specifying the percentage by weight of each fibre type in the yarn. If the yarn contains synthetic staple fibres and other fibres, the percentage of synthetic staple fibres must be confirmed to be less than 85%. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551120?
A 100% cotton yarn blended with 20% polyester staple fibre, weighing 500 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5% ad valorem (5% × $2,500 = $125.00). It is critical to verify the exact duty rate applicable to the specific country of import and the declared value or weight.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551120?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551120, 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, provided a valid Certificate of Origin is presented. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. Documentation requirements vary by agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551120, which covers yarns of synthetic staple fibres containing less than 85% by weight of such fibres?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551120 is typically 5.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods originating from countries with which the importing country has trade agreements. For example, under certain agreements, goods 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 may receive a duty rate of Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule or the EU TARIC database, to determine the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 551120 when the duty rate is 5.00% ad valorem?
The duty is calculated based on the declared customs value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of yarn classified under HS 551120 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable MFN duty rate is 5.00% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.05 (5.00% Duty Rate) = $500.00. Importers and brokers must ensure accurate valuation and proper declaration to avoid discrepancies and potential penalties.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 551120, and what documentation is needed to support it?
HS code 551120 specifically applies to yarns of synthetic staple fibres that contain less than 85% by weight of synthetic staple fibres, and not put up for retail sale. This means the yarn's composition is predominantly other fibres (e.g., cotton, wool, or regenerated cellulosic fibres) mixed with synthetic staple fibres. To support this classification, importers must provide a detailed invoice clearly stating the fibre content by weight, a packing list, and potentially a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Laboratory analysis reports may be required in cases of doubt or dispute regarding fibre composition.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551120, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Several trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often including Free entry, for goods classified under HS 551120. Examples include agreements with countries like Chile (e.g., US-Chile Free Trade Agreement), South Korea (e.g., US-Korea Free Trade Agreement), and members of the EU's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements. To verify eligibility, importers and customs brokers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) from the exporter, which certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. The COO, along with the import declaration, is submitted to customs authorities for verification.