HS 551511 Of polyester staple fibres
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres imported under HS 551511 enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, and the US at 14.9% ad valorem under the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers woven fabrics made predominantly from polyester staple fibres, which are short, discontinuous synthetic fibres. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available in the US for goods originating from Free Trade Agreement partner countries. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based rates for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5515110000 | — | — | — |
| 5515111000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515113000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5515110000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515113000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515111000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515119000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55151100 | 14.9% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5515110005 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5515110015 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5515110020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5515110030 | — | — | ["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 5515.11?
Imports of 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 551511 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, specifically those of polyester staple fibres, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification applies to fabrics where polyester staple fibres constitute 85% or more by weight of the synthetic fibres. These fabrics can be of various weaves, such as plain weave, twill, or satin, and may be dyed, printed, or otherwise finished, provided they meet the fibre composition criteria.
What falls outside HS 551511?
The following products are excluded from HS 551511: woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres that do not meet the 85% by weight threshold of polyester staple fibres among the synthetic fibres, or where other fibres (natural or man-made) are present in significant quantities. Also excluded are knitted or crocheted fabrics (which fall under Chapter 60), felt, or non-wovens (Chapter 56), and fabrics of filament polyester (which fall under HS 5407). For instance, a fabric predominantly of cotton with a small percentage of polyester staple fibre would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551511?
A common error is misinterpreting the fibre composition requirements. Importers may incorrectly classify fabrics where polyester staple fibre is not the predominant synthetic fibre by weight, or where the total synthetic fibre content is less than 85%. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are composed of different materials or components, they are generally classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Overlooking this principle can lead to misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 551511?
The correct procedure for classifying woven fabrics under HS 551511 involves a detailed examination of the fibre content and the manufacturing process. Importers and customs brokers must consult the product's technical specifications or laboratory analysis to determine the exact percentage by weight of polyester staple fibres relative to other synthetic fibres. Verification against the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial to confirm that the fabric's construction and composition align with the subheading's description.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551511?
A bolt of 100% polyester staple fibre woven fabric, weighing 50 kilograms and 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 × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 551511.10.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a valid self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A may be required, depending on the specific agreement and originating country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551511 (Woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 551511 is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce this. For example, under certain trade agreements, goods from countries like Australia, Bahrain, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Morocco, Oman, Peru, Singapore, and others may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the origin of the goods and applicable trade agreements. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU's TARIC database are primary sources for this information.
How is the import duty for HS 551511 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS 551511 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import 1,000 kilograms of fabric valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 8.00% of $5,000 = $400 USD. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared and supported by commercial invoices and other relevant documentation. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, so always check the full tariff description.
What are the key classification criteria for fabrics under HS code 551511?
HS code 551511 specifically covers woven fabrics of polyester staple fibres. The primary classification criteria are the fibre content (predominantly polyester staple fibres) and the fabric construction (woven). Fabrics made from continuous polyester filament yarns would fall under different HS codes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between staple fibres and filament yarns, and the methods for determining the predominant fibre content in blends. Importers must ensure the fabric's composition and weave match the description for this code.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 551511?
Standard import documentation for HS 551511 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. For preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin is usually mandatory, proving the goods originate from a country with a trade agreement. Depending on the importing country's regulations, laboratory test reports confirming fibre content or compliance with specific standards (e.g., flammability for certain end-uses) might also be required. Always consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551511, and how can importers leverage them?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often including duty-free access, for goods classified under HS 551511. Examples include agreements like the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), the US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, and various EU Free Trade Agreements. To leverage these, importers must ensure the woven polyester staple fibre fabric originates from a country that is a party to the relevant trade agreement. This requires a valid Certificate of Origin and adherence to the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Customs brokers play a vital role in verifying eligibility and ensuring correct declaration to benefit from reduced or eliminated duties.