HS 551443 Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres, not of a weight exceeding 170g/m², containing 85% or more by weight of polyester staple fibres, and dyed, printed, or otherwise finished, imported under HS 551443, enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 81% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers polyester staple fibre fabrics that have undergone dyeing, printing, or other finishing processes, excluding those that are plain woven and unfinished. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity in the US market, which necessitates careful consideration of the specific fabric composition and finishing for accurate classification and duty assessment. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to highlight key trade considerations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514430000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514430000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5514430040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5514430090 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55144300 | Free | — | — |
| 5514430020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 551443 cover?
This subheading covers other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres, specifically those that are not printed, not of a weight exceeding 170 grams per square metre, and not containing 33% or more by weight of cotton. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses a broad range of woven materials primarily composed of polyester staple fibres, excluding those with specific treatments or compositions detailed in other subheadings. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database provide further detail on the precise definitions and exclusions within this classification.
What falls outside HS 551443?
The following products are excluded from HS 551443: woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres that are printed, those weighing more than 170 grams per square metre, and those containing 33% or more by weight of cotton. Additionally, fabrics of artificial staple fibres, or those with a significant component of other fibres like wool or silk, would be classified elsewhere. For instance, a printed polyester fabric would fall under a different subheading, and a polyester-cotton blend fabric with 50% cotton would be classified under heading 5509.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551443?
A common error is misinterpreting the weight limitation of 170 grams per square metre. Importers may incorrectly classify heavier polyester staple fibre fabrics under this subheading. Another frequent mistake involves overlooking the presence of other fibres, particularly cotton. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are described by a combination of headings, the heading which provides the most specific description shall be preferred. If no such provision exists, classification shall be according to the component which gives them their essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 551443?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551443 involves a detailed examination of the fabric's composition, weight, and any treatments. Importers and customs brokers must first determine that the fabric is woven and primarily composed of polyester staple fibres. Next, they must verify that it is not printed and confirm its weight per square metre does not exceed 170 grams. Finally, the percentage by weight of any other fibres, especially cotton, must be calculated to ensure it remains below 33%. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551443?
A bolt of polyester staple fibre fabric, weighing 150 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 value. The calculation is: 10% of $1,500 USD = $150.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 5514.43. The specific duty rate can vary significantly by country.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551443?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551443, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, fabrics originating from Mexico or Canada may be eligible for a duty rate of Free, provided they meet the rules of origin. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin. Other agreements, like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), may offer reduced duties for eligible developing countries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551443, 'Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres'?
The import duty rates for HS code 551443 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 8.00% ad valorem. Under the UK Global Tariff, the standard rate is 8.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system also lists a rate of 8.00% ad valorem for this code. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may apply.
How is the import duty for HS code 551443 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 551443 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of 1,000 square meters of fabric valued at $2,000 (USD) is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 8.00%, the import duty would be calculated as: $2,000 (value) × 8.00% (duty rate) = $160.00. Always ensure the declared value is the customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the port of entry.
What specific criteria differentiate HS code 551443 from other polyester staple fibre fabric classifications?
HS code 551443 is specifically for 'Other woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres' that do not fall under more specific subheadings within Chapter 55. This typically means fabrics that are not primarily characterized by specific weaves (like plain weave, twill, satin), specific weights per square meter, or specific end-uses as defined in other HS codes. If a fabric is primarily composed by weight of polyester staple fibres (i.e., more than 85% by weight) and is woven, but doesn't meet the criteria for more specific classifications (e.g., certain types of poplin, denim, or upholstery fabrics), it will likely be classified under 551443. Always refer to the Chapter 55 Notes and the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) for definitive classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 551443?
Standard import documentation for HS code 551443 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and any preferential trade agreements being claimed, a certificate of origin may be required to prove the goods' country of manufacture. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or fabric composition details if requested by customs authorities to verify the HS classification.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551443?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 551443 can be accessed through various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, goods originating from countries that are part of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, fabrics imported into the UK from countries with which the UK has an FTA (e.g., CPTPP) might qualify for preferential treatment. The EU also has numerous FTAs with countries worldwide that could impact duties on these goods. To claim preferential rates, importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation as stipulated by the specific trade agreement.