HS 551321 Dyed
Quick Answer: Dyed staple fibres of synthetic fibres, not carded or combed, imported under HS 551321 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at rates ranging from free to 81% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This classification specifically applies to synthetic staple fibres that have undergone a dyeing process. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations, particularly the high rates in the US for non-preferential trade. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country rates and any applicable trade agreements before shipment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5513210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5513210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5513210090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5513210060 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55132100 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5513210020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5513210040 | — | — | ["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 5513.21?
Imports of Dyed 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 551321 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, measuring not more than 170 threads per square centimetre. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is further defined by the colour of the fabric, with 551321 specifically denoting fabrics that are dyed. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are typically plain weave fabrics, often used in apparel and home furnishings, characterized by their uniform colour achieved through dyeing processes after weaving.
What falls outside HS 551321?
The following products are excluded from HS 551321: fabrics not containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, fabrics exceeding 170 threads per square centimetre, and fabrics that are not dyed. Also excluded are printed fabrics (which fall under 551341), fabrics of other synthetic staple fibres, or those blended with significant proportions of other materials like cotton or wool. Fabrics that are unbleached, bleached, or have undergone other specific finishing treatments not classified as simple dyeing might also be classified elsewhere under heading 5513 or other headings depending on their exact composition and processing.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551321?
A common error is misinterpreting the thread count threshold or the fibre composition. For instance, fabrics with more than 170 threads per square centimetre, even if dyed polyester staple fibre, would not fall under 551321. Another mistake is confusing "dyed" with "printed"; printed fabrics are classified under a different subheading. Importers may also incorrectly classify fabrics that are not 85% polyester staple fibre, or those with complex finishing treatments that alter their fundamental character, failing to adhere to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3 for composite goods.
How should importers classify products under HS 551321?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551321 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first determine the fibre content, ensuring it is 85% or more polyester staple fibres. Next, they must confirm the fabric construction, specifically that it does not exceed 170 threads per square centimetre. Crucially, the fabric must be dyed, not printed or otherwise finished in a way that changes its primary classification. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and examining the fabric's specifications are essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551321?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dyed polyester staple fibre fabric (HS 551321) with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem, the calculation would be: 7.5% of $5,000 USD = $375.00 USD. This is calculated using the ad valorem rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which applies a percentage of the declared value. This specific rate is subject to change and may differ based on origin country and trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551321?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551321, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement terms.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 551321, specifically for 'dyed' fabrics?
For HS code 551321 (which covers 'Other woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, not carded or combed, dyed, of a weight not exceeding 170 g/m²'), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for countries with trade agreements. For example, under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the rate is Free. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the US HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff, for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates applicable to their origin country.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 551321, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 551321 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and an importer brings in a shipment valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 8.00% (duty rate) = $800 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, so it's crucial to verify the applicable duty basis in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 551321, particularly regarding the 'dyed' aspect?
The primary classification criteria for HS code 551321 are: 1) It must be a woven fabric of synthetic staple fibres. 2) It must contain 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres. 3) The fibres must not be carded or combed. 4) The fabric must be dyed. The 'dyed' aspect means that the colouration is imparted to the fabric after the weaving process, or the yarn used was already dyed before weaving. This distinguishes it from 'printed' fabrics (which fall under different HS codes) or fabrics that are inherently coloured due to the fibre's composition. Importers must ensure their goods meet all these criteria to be correctly classified.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 551321?
When importing goods classified under HS code 551321, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the fabric (e.g., if it's subject to specific textile regulations or safety standards), additional certifications or declarations might be necessary. Customs brokers should verify these requirements with the importing country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551321, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 551321. For example, the US has agreements with 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, which often grant 'Free' entry for goods originating from these countries. The EU has its Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that can reduce or eliminate duties for goods from partner countries. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid Certificate of Origin or equivalent declaration.