HS 551614 Printed
Quick Answer: Fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, printed, imported under HS 551614 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at a range of rates including 10% and 81%, with some preferential rates available. This classification specifically covers woven fabrics made from synthetic staple fibres that have undergone a printing process. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major trading blocs, particularly the higher rates in the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific preferential agreements for the US market.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516140000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516140000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5516140005 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 55161400 | 10% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 5516140025 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516140015 | — | — | ["m²","kg"] |
| 5516140030 | — | — | ["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 5516.14?
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 551614 cover?
This subheading covers woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, containing 85% or more by weight of synthetic staple fibres, which are printed. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies to fabrics where the printing process imparts a design or pattern. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the printing must be a distinct characteristic of the fabric, not merely a background colouration, and the base fabric must meet the synthetic staple fibre content requirement.
What falls outside HS 551614?
The following products are excluded from HS 551614: fabrics that are not printed, fabrics where the printing is incidental or part of the manufacturing process (e.g., a uniform colour), and fabrics not meeting the 85% synthetic staple fibre threshold. For instance, woven fabrics of artificial staple fibres, or those containing significant amounts of other fibres like cotton or wool, would be classified elsewhere. Similarly, fabrics that are dyed but not printed, or those with embroidered or flocked designs, fall under different HS codes, such as 551611 for unprinted or 551612 for dyed.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 551614?
A common error is misinterpreting the term "printed." Importers may mistakenly classify fabrics with subtle patterns or those that are dyed in a variegated manner under this code, when in fact, the printing must be a distinct application of colour to create a design. Furthermore, failing to verify the fibre content, particularly if the fabric contains a blend of synthetic and natural fibres, can lead to incorrect classification. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System is crucial for determining the essential character of the fabric.
How should importers classify products under HS 551614?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 551614 involves a multi-step process. First, confirm the fabric's composition, ensuring it contains at least 85% synthetic staple fibres by weight. Second, ascertain that the fabric is indeed printed, meaning a design or pattern has been applied after weaving. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, for detailed guidance. Importers and customs brokers should maintain detailed product specifications and photographic evidence of the printing process.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 551614?
A bolt of printed polyester staple fibre fabric weighing 100 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.15 = $75.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5516.14.9000, which is the specific code for this type of printed fabric.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 551614?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 551614, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the origin country and the specific agreement's provisions.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 5516.14, covering "Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibres, printed"?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5516.14 is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for imports from certain countries. For instance, goods originating 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 the United States (US) may enter duty-free under specific trade agreements. It is crucial to verify the origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement to determine the correct preferential rate. Always consult the latest official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, for precise rates.
How is the import duty for HS 5516.14 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 5516.14 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of printed synthetic staple fiber fabric valued at $10,000 is imported and subject to the MFN duty rate of 8.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 (value) × 0.08 (8.00% rate) = $800. If a specific duty or a combination of duties applies, the calculation would be adjusted accordingly. Always ensure accurate valuation and refer to the official tariff for the exact calculation method.
What are the key classification criteria for fabrics to be classified under HS code 5516.14?
To be classified under HS code 5516.14, the fabric must meet several criteria: 1. Material Composition: It must be woven fabric made predominantly from synthetic staple fibers (e.g., polyester staple fibers, nylon staple fibers). 2. Printing: The fabric must be printed. Printing refers to the application of colors or designs onto the fabric surface using various methods (e.g., screen printing, digital printing, roller printing). If the pattern is created during the weaving process (e.g., jacquard), it would fall under a different classification. 3. Weight and Density: While not the primary determinant, the weight and density of the fabric can sometimes be relevant for sub-classification within Chapter 55. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) for detailed guidance on classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 5516.14?
When importing goods under HS code 5516.14, standard import documentation is required, which may include: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading or Air Waybill: Evidence of shipment. 4. Certificate of Origin: Crucial for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements. This document must attest that the goods originate from the partner country. 5. Textile Declaration (if applicable): Some countries may require specific declarations regarding the fiber content and manufacturing process. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific import regulations of the destination country and the relevant trade agreements to ensure all necessary documents are provided.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 5516.14, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often including duty-free access, for goods classified under HS code 5516.14. Notable examples include agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG). To benefit, importers must ensure the printed synthetic staple fiber fabrics meet the Rules of Origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. This typically involves demonstrating that the fibers were spun, the yarn was spun, and the fabric was woven and printed within the territory of the partner country or that sufficient value was added. A valid Certificate of Origin, issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, is mandatory to claim these preferential rates. Consulting the specific trade agreement text and the relevant customs authority is essential for compliance.