HS 551423 Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres, weighing more than 170 grams per square meter, and containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US with a range of rates including 14.9% and 81% for most favored nation (MFN) imports, with certain trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers fabrics that are not of the "other" category within the broader polyester staple fibre woven fabric group, meaning they are not specifically defined by their weave or other characteristics in preceding subheadings. Importers should consult specific trade agreements and the latest tariff schedules for precise duty calculations, as CustomTariffs aggregates this data.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514230000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514230000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514230040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514230090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55142300 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5514230020 | — | — | ["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 5514.23?
Imports of Other woven fabrics of polyester 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 551423 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres, specifically those that are not of the kind described in subheadings 5514.11 to 5514.22. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes fabrics where polyester staple fibres constitute 85% or more by weight of the total fibre content. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to fabrics with a weight exceeding 170 grams per square meter, excluding those with specific weaves or treatments that would place them in other headings.
What falls outside HS 551423?
The following products are excluded from HS 551423: woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres that are specifically classified under subheadings 5514.11 to 5514.22, such as those that are dyed, printed, or of a specific weave like poplin or twill. Additionally, fabrics made from other staple fibres, or where polyester staple fibres constitute less than 85% of the total fibre content, are not covered. For instance, blended fabrics with significant cotton content or those that are felt or non-woven are classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 56 or Chapter 63.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551423?
A common error is misinterpreting the "other" designation within the subheading, leading to the classification of fabrics that should fall under more specific subheadings within heading 5514. For example, fabrics that are printed or dyed are often mistakenly classified here. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c), when goods cannot be classified by reference to GRI 3(a) or 3(b), they are to be classified under the heading which occurs last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration. Importers may also overlook the weight threshold of 170 grams per square meter, which is a crucial determinant for certain classifications within heading 5514.
How should importers classify products under HS 551423?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551423 involves a detailed examination of the fabric's composition and characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must first determine that the fabric is woven and composed of polyester staple fibres, making up at least 85% of the total fibre content by weight. They should then consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) to ensure it does not meet the criteria for more specific subheadings within 5514, such as dyed or printed fabrics, and confirm it exceeds the 170 g/m² weight threshold if applicable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551423?
A bolt of polyester staple fibre woven fabric, weighing 250 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,500 USD × 10% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 5514.23.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551423?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551423, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide a rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A is typically required, depending on the origin country and the specific importing jurisdiction's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551423, 'Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551423 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is 8.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff may have different rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate. Preferential rates are available for countries with trade agreements. For instance, under certain agreements, duty rates might be Free (e.g., for imports from Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Morocco, Oman, Peru, Singapore, and others under specific agreements). Always verify the origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement.
How is the import duty for HS 551423 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 551423 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and the declared customs value of a shipment of polyester staple fibre woven fabric is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 8.00% (Duty Rate) = $800 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so it's essential to check the specific tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for 'Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres' under HS code 551423?
HS code 551423 covers woven fabrics made predominantly (by weight) from polyester staple fibres. This means the fibres are cut to a specific length, not continuous filaments. The fabric must be woven, distinguishing it from knitted or non-woven materials. 'Other' in the description implies it covers fabrics not specifically enumerated in preceding subheadings within heading 5514. Key factors for classification include the fibre composition (predominantly polyester staple fibre), the method of fabric construction (woven), and potentially the fabric's weight or specific characteristics if detailed in the tariff notes or explanatory notes of the WCO (World Customs Organization).
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 551423?
Standard import documentation for HS code 551423 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin. The certificate of origin is particularly important for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country and the specific fabric, additional documentation such as a textile declaration, safety data sheets (if applicable), or specific import licenses might be required. Importers and customs brokers should consult the customs authorities of the destination country for a comprehensive list.
Which common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 551423?
Several trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 551423. For instance, the United States has agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) which may offer preferential rates for qualifying goods. The European Union has numerous Association Agreements and Free Trade Agreements with countries worldwide, often providing reduced or zero duties. The UK also has a network of trade agreements post-Brexit. Examples of countries often benefiting from preferential rates include Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG), among others, depending on the specific bilateral or multilateral agreement in force and the origin of the goods.