HS 551441 Printed
Quick Answer: Fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, of a weight exceeding 170 g/m², printed, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 81%, with a standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 14.9%. This classification specifically applies to polyester staple fibre fabrics that are printed and weigh over 170 grams per square meter. Importers should be aware of the significant duty variations in the US, particularly the preferential rates available for specific trading partners. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate declaration and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514410000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514410000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514410020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55144100 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5514410030 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514410050 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514410090 | — | — | ["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 5514.41?
Imports of Printed 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 551441 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, of a weight not exceeding 170 g/m², printed. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to textiles that have undergone a printing process, altering their original appearance. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the printing must be applied to the fabric itself, not to a component thereof, and the fabric must meet the specified weight and fibre composition criteria.
What falls outside HS 551441?
The following products are excluded from HS 551441: fabrics that are not printed, fabrics with a weight exceeding 170 g/m², fabrics containing less than 85% polyester staple fibres, or fabrics where the printing is achieved through methods other than surface application, such as flocking or embroidery. For instance, plain dyed fabrics of polyester staple fibres, or fabrics woven with a significant proportion of other synthetic or natural fibres, would be classified elsewhere under Chapter 55 or other relevant chapters, depending on their specific composition and characteristics.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551441?
A common error is misinterpreting the "printed" criterion, classifying fabrics that have been dyed in the yarn before weaving as printed. General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 6 of the Harmonized System are crucial here, emphasizing that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and subheadings and, if necessary, by the relevant Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify fabrics based solely on their visual appearance without verifying the exact percentage of polyester staple fibres or the fabric's weight, which are critical for accurate classification under this specific subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 551441?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551441 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the fabric is woven and composed of synthetic staple fibres. Subsequently, they must ascertain that polyester staple fibres constitute at least 85% by weight of the total fibre content. The fabric's weight must then be verified to ensure it does not exceed 170 g/m². Finally, the presence and method of printing must be confirmed, ensuring it is a surface print applied after weaving.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551441?
A bolt of printed polyester staple fibre fabric, weighing 150 kg 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 rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 5514.41.10, which covers printed woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551441?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551441, 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, requiring a USMCA certification of origin. Additionally, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), potentially offering reduced or Free duties, often requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation requirements are jurisdiction-dependent.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty rate for HS code 551441 (Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, printed, of a weight not exceeding 170 g/m²) in the US?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551441 in the United States is 8.00% ad valorem. This rate applies to imports from countries not covered by specific trade agreements. For example, if a shipment valued at $10,000 is imported, the duty would be calculated as 8.00% of $10,000, resulting in a duty of $800. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current rates and any applicable additional duties or taxes.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 551441 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for HS code 551441 under various trade agreements. For instance, imports 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 be eligible for duty-free entry (Free). To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin or other documentation as required by the specific trade agreement. It is crucial to verify eligibility and documentation requirements with the relevant customs authority and the terms of the applicable Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 551441?
HS code 551441 specifically covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres. The primary criteria for classification are: 1) The fabric must be woven. 2) It must be made of synthetic staple fibres, with polyester staple fibres constituting 85% or more by weight. 3) The fabric must be printed. 4) Its weight must not exceed 170 g/m². Importers must ensure that their product meets all these specifications. Documentation such as a manufacturer's declaration or technical specifications confirming the fibre content, weave, printing, and weight is essential for customs verification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 551441?
When importing goods classified under HS code 551441, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, to substantiate the classification and duty rate claimed, importers should be prepared to provide: 1) A Certificate of Origin (especially if claiming preferential treatment under a trade agreement). 2) Technical specifications or a manufacturer's declaration detailing the fibre composition (85% or more polyester staple fibre), weave type, printing process, and fabric weight (not exceeding 170 g/m²). 3) In some cases, a sample of the fabric might be requested by customs for verification. Compliance with specific country import regulations is also necessary.
How is the import duty for HS code 551441 calculated if it's not duty-free?
For countries where a duty rate applies, the calculation is typically based on the ad valorem system, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if HS code 551441 has an 8.00% ad valorem duty rate and a shipment has a customs value of $5,000, the duty would be calculated as $5,000 (customs value) × 0.08 (duty rate) = $400. Some countries may also impose specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the exact duty calculation method and applicable rates.