HS 551421 Dyed
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, dyed, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at 14.9% under the MFN rate, with several preferential trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers polyester staple fibre fabrics that have undergone a dyeing process. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major markets, particularly the higher US tariff. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55142100 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5514210020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514210030 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514210050 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514210090 | — | — | ["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 5514.21?
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 551421 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, which are dyed. According to the WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature and as interpreted by official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, these fabrics are characterized by their composition and the application of color through dyeing processes after weaving. The key is that the polyester staple fibre content exceeds 85% and the fabric has undergone a dyeing operation.
What falls outside HS 551421?
The following products are excluded from HS 551421: fabrics that are not dyed, such as those in their natural state or bleached; fabrics that are printed; fabrics containing less than 85% by weight of polyester staple fibres, which would be classified under other headings in Chapter 55; and fabrics made from continuous filament polyester, which fall under HS Heading 5407. For instance, a plain woven polyester fabric weighing 150 grams per square meter that is undyed would not be classified here.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551421?
A common error is misinterpreting the "dyed" requirement, classifying undyed or printed fabrics under this subheading. Another mistake involves incorrect calculation of the polyester staple fibre content, leading to classification under a different heading if it falls below the 85% threshold. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3(b) is crucial, ensuring the primary characteristic of the fabric (dyed polyester staple fibre content) dictates its classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 551421?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551421 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm the fabric's composition, ensuring it contains 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres. Secondly, they must verify that the fabric has been dyed. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is essential to confirm the specific wording and any additional notes or exclusions for this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551421?
A specific dyed polyester staple fibre fabric (100% polyester staple fibre, woven, weighing 120 grams per square meter) declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 5.0% = $25.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551421?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551421, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the primary classification criteria for HS code 5514.21?
HS code 5514.21 specifically covers 'Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, mixed mainly or solely with cotton, of yarns of different colours, dyed'. The key criteria are: 1) The fabric must be woven. 2) It must contain 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibers. 3) It must be mixed mainly or solely with cotton. 4) The yarns must be of different colors, and the fabric must be dyed. The 'dyed' aspect refers to the color being imparted after the weaving process, distinguishing it from fabrics woven from pre-dyed yarns (which would fall under 5514.30).
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5514.21 in the US?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5514.21 in the United States is 8.00% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries not covered by specific preferential trade agreements. For example, if a shipment valued at $10,000 is imported from a country subject to the MFN rate, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.08 = $800.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 5514.21?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry, for HS code 5514.21. Examples include agreements with 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. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and possess the required proof of origin documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 5514.21 if the rate is not ad valorem?
While many rates for this code are ad valorem (a percentage of the value), some countries may impose specific duties or a combination. For instance, if a hypothetical rate were $0.50 per square meter, and you imported 500 square meters of fabric valued at $2,000, the duty calculation would be 500 square meters * $0.50/square meter = $250. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country to determine the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) and rate applicable to your shipment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 5514.21?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 5514.21 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 customs declaration. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the fabric (e.g., if it is treated with certain chemicals), additional certifications related to safety or chemical content might be required.