HS 551521 Of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres imported under HS 551521 enter the UK and EU at 8.00% ad valorem, while the US rate varies significantly, with some classifications being duty-free and others as high as 81% ad valorem. This code specifically covers woven fabrics predominantly made from acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, which are synthetic fibres cut into short lengths. Importers should be aware of the substantial duty differential for the US market, necessitating careful classification to secure the most advantageous rate. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional tariff differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5515210000 | — | — | — |
| 5515211000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515213000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5515211000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515213000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515219000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 5515210000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5515210010 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5515210020 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55152100 | Free | — | — |
| 5515210040 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5515210030 | — | — | ["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 551521 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres, specifically those that are not further worked than carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes a wide array of textile materials used in apparel, home furnishings, and industrial applications, provided they are derived from acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres and have undergone basic preparation for weaving but not further finishing processes.
What falls outside HS 551521?
The following products are excluded from HS 551521: woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic continuous filament, fabrics that have undergone further finishing processes such as dyeing, printing, or coating, and fabrics made from blends where acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres are not the predominant component. For instance, 100% polyester woven fabrics or acrylic fabrics that have been treated to be waterproof would be classified under different headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551521?
A common error is misinterpreting "staple fibres" versus "continuous filament" fibres. HS 551521 specifically pertains to staple fibres, which are short, discontinuous fibres. Additionally, confusion can arise with fabrics that have undergone simple finishing treatments; General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for mixtures and GRI 1 for the basic nature of the fabric are crucial. For example, a dyed acrylic woven fabric is not classified here.
How should importers classify products under HS 551521?
The correct procedure for classifying woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres under HS 551521 involves first identifying the fibre content and ensuring it is indeed acrylic or modacrylic staple fibre. Next, confirm that the fabric is woven and has not undergone any finishing processes beyond those permitted by the heading's scope. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC database, is essential for precise classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551521?
A bolt of 100% acrylic staple fibre woven fabric weighing 50 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $200 USD would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 2.0% of $200 USD = $4.00. However, if the fabric is priced by weight, for example, a rate of $0.20 per kilogram, the duty would be 50 kg * $0.20/kg = $10.00. This calculation is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551521?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551521, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, fabrics originating from Canada or Mexico 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, depending on the specific transaction and value.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 551521, covering woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres?
The import duty rates for HS code 551521 can vary significantly depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For instance, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For example, goods from Canada or Mexico under USMCA might have a 0% duty rate. It is crucial to consult the latest USITC Tariff Data to confirm the specific rate applicable to your import. The UK Trade Tariff also lists specific rates, often differing from US rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 551521, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 551521 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if you import 1,000 square meters of fabric valued at $5,000 USD, and the applicable MFN duty rate is 8.00%, the duty would be calculated as: $5,000 (value) × 0.08 (duty rate) = $400.00. Always ensure your declared value is accurate and includes all elements required by customs regulations (e.g., CIF value).
What specific criteria determine if a fabric falls under HS code 551521 for acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres?
HS code 551521 specifically covers woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres. The key classification criteria are: 1. Fibre Content: The fabric must be predominantly made from acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres. Staple fibres are short, discontinuous lengths of synthetic fibres. 2. Weave Type: The fabric must be woven, meaning the yarns are interlaced at right angles. This excludes knitted, felted, or non-woven fabrics. 3. Weight and Composition: While not always the primary determinant, customs authorities may consider the weight per square meter and the percentage of acrylic/modacrylic content (typically above 85% by weight for classification under Chapter 55, as per WCO guidelines) when differentiating from other similar HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 551521?
When importing woven fabrics of acrylic or modacrylic staple fibres (HS 551521), standard import documentation is required. This generally 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 certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates if applicable. Depending on the importing country and the specific fabric, additional documentation such as a textile declaration or compliance certificates might be necessary to ensure adherence to import regulations and trade agreements.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 551521, and how can importers verify eligibility?
The eligibility for preferential duty rates under HS code 551521 depends heavily on the trade agreement between the exporting and importing countries. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may grant duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico into the US. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries that could reduce or eliminate duties on these fabrics. Importers must verify eligibility by checking the specific rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and ensuring their goods meet these criteria. A valid Certificate of Origin issued by the exporter or manufacturer is usually required to support the preferential claim.