HS 551311 Unbleached or bleached
Quick Answer: Cotton fabrics of a weight not exceeding 170 g/m², of yarns of different colours, not containing synthetic staple fibres, imported under HS 551311 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 14.9% under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers unbleached or bleached woven fabrics made from cotton yarns of varying colors, provided they do not exceed 170 grams per square meter in weight and are free of synthetic staple fibers. Importers should note the significant duty rate variations across major markets, with the US exhibiting a considerably higher MFN tariff. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential rates for trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5513110000 | — | — | — |
| 5513119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5513112000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5513110000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5513112000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5513119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55131100 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5513110040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5513110060 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5513110020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5513110090 | — | — | ["m²","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 5513.11?
Imports of Unbleached or bleached 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 551311 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, with a weight not exceeding 170 grams per square metre, and which are unbleached or bleached. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes plain weave fabrics suitable for apparel and home furnishings, excluding those with specific finishes or constructions that would place them in other headings.
What falls outside HS 551311?
The following products are excluded from HS 551311: fabrics containing less than 85% by weight of synthetic staple fibres, fabrics weighing more than 170 grams per square metre, and fabrics that have undergone dyeing, printing, or other finishing processes beyond bleaching. For instance, dyed polyester staple fibre fabrics (HS 551321) or printed cotton fabrics (HS 5208.32) would be classified elsewhere, as would fabrics with specific technical characteristics like those for technical textiles or medical use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551311?
A common error is misinterpreting the "unbleached or bleached" condition, leading to the incorrect classification of dyed or finished fabrics. Another mistake involves miscalculating the percentage of synthetic staple fibres or the fabric's weight per square metre, which are critical for accurate classification under Section XI of the Harmonized System. For example, a fabric with a significant percentage of cotton or a weight exceeding 170 g/m² would not fall under this subheading, even if it appears similar.
How should importers classify products under HS 551311?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551311 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the fabric's fibre composition, ensuring it contains at least 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight. Secondly, they must accurately determine the fabric's weight per square metre, ensuring it does not exceed 170 grams. Finally, they must verify that the fabric is only unbleached or bleached, not dyed or printed, referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules for definitive guidance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551311?
A shipment of 1,000 square metres of unbleached polyester staple fibre fabric, weighing 150 grams per square metre, 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) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). Note that some fabrics may also have specific duties based on weight, but for this example, the ad valorem rate applies.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551311?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551311, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide a duty-free rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for goods from designated developing countries. To claim preferential treatment under USMCA, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required, while GSP benefits often necessitate a GSP Form A or a self-certification statement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551311?
For HS code 551311, which covers 'Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, of unbleached or bleached, plain weave', the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is generally 8.00% ad valorem in many major markets like the United States. However, specific rates can vary by country. For instance, the EU TARIC system may show different rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also lists specific duties. Always consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 551311, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 551311 is typically 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 8.00% and you import 1,000 square meters of fabric valued at $2,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $2,000 (value) × 8.00% (duty rate) = $160.00 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, so it's crucial to verify the applicable duty basis in the destination country's tariff.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551311?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 551311 are available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule notes 'Free' rates for imports from countries like 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 under specific FTAs. To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 551311?
The primary classification criteria for HS code 551311 are: 1) The material composition: the fabric must contain 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibers. 2) The weave: it must be a plain weave. 3) The condition: the fabric must be unbleached or bleached. Fabrics that do not meet these specific criteria, such as those with different fiber content, different weaves (e.g., twill, satin), or those that are dyed or printed, would be classified under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 551311?
Standard import documentation for HS code 551311 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must be prepared to provide proof of the fabric's composition and weave to substantiate the HS classification. This may involve a manufacturer's declaration, a laboratory test report, or a Certificate of Origin if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Customs authorities may request additional documentation to verify compliance.