HS 560311 Of man-made filaments
Quick Answer: Nonwovens of man-made filaments imported under HS 560311 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.30%, and the US at 74% under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers non-woven fabrics made from synthetic or artificial filaments, such as polyester or nylon, that are bonded together by various methods. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity in the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, careful consideration of the specific bonding process and filament type may be necessary for precise classification and to leverage any potential preferential trade agreements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603110000 | — | — | — |
| 5603111000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603111090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603119000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603111010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603110000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603111000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603111010 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603111090 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603119000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603110070 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 56031100 | Free | — | — |
| 5603110010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5603110095 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>","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 560311 cover?
This subheading covers nonwovens and wadding of man-made filaments, weighing not more than 25 g/m². According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes materials manufactured from synthetic or artificial filaments, such as polyester, nylon, or rayon, that are bonded together by any process. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the key defining characteristic is the filamentary origin of the constituent fibers and the low basis weight, distinguishing them from heavier nonwoven fabrics.
What falls outside HS 560311?
The following products are excluded from HS 560311: nonwovens made from staple man-made fibers (which fall under 560312 or 560313), nonwovens of natural fibers, wadding of natural fibers, and nonwovens weighing more than 25 g/m². For instance, felt made from wool fibers would not be classified here, nor would a heavy-duty spunbond fabric used in construction. Products that are further processed into finished articles, such as disposable diapers or medical gowns, are typically classified under their respective finished product headings, not as raw nonwoven material.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 560311?
A common error is misinterpreting the "man-made filaments" requirement, leading to the inclusion of nonwovens made from staple fibers. General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, concerning goods consisting of different materials or components, is often overlooked. Importers may also incorrectly classify products based solely on their end-use rather than their material composition and physical characteristics, failing to adhere to the specific weight limitation of 25 g/m² for this subheading, which is crucial for accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 560311?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 560311 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first confirm that the material is composed of man-made filaments, not staple fibers. Secondly, they must verify the basis weight, ensuring it does not exceed 25 g/m². Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO are essential steps to confirm the correct classification and avoid discrepancies.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 560311?
A roll of lightweight spunbond polyester nonwoven fabric, weighing 15 g/m², with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD for a shipment of 1,000 kg, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($5,000 USD × 0.035 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the specific rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 560311.9000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 560311?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 560311, 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 EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, often Free, for goods originating from the UK or EU. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and the value of the goods.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 5603.11, covering nonwovens of man-made filaments?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 5603.11, which covers nonwovens of man-made filaments, can vary by importing country. For example, in the United States, the general duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, rates can range from 0% to 6.5% ad valorem depending on specific product characteristics and origin. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often around 4.00% ad valorem for standard imports. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may offer reduced or zero duties if origin requirements are met.
How is HS code 5603.11 classified, and what are the key criteria for 'man-made filaments'?
HS code 5603.11 falls under Chapter 56, which deals with 'Wadding, articles of felt and nonwovens; special yarns; twine, cordage, ropes and cables and articles thereof'. Specifically, 5603 covers 'Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated'. The subheading 5603.11 is for nonwovens where the 'principal defining characteristic' is that they are made of man-made filaments. 'Man-made filaments' refers to continuous artificial threads or fibers produced by extruding a filament-forming substance through a spinneret. This includes synthetic fibers (like polyester, nylon, acrylic) and regenerated fibers (like rayon, modal, lyocell) that are manufactured in filament form, as opposed to staple fibers (short, discrete lengths). The WCO's Explanatory Notes to Chapter 56 provide further guidance on distinguishing filaments from staple fibers and the manufacturing processes of nonwovens.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 5603.11?
Standard import documentation for goods classified under HS 5603.11 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the nonwovens; 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 the specific nature of the nonwovens (e.g., if they are treated, coated, or intended for specific uses like medical or hygiene products), additional certifications may be required. These could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under an FTA, or specific health, safety, or environmental compliance certificates. Importers should verify the exact requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
How are import duties calculated for HS 5603.11, and can you provide an example?
Import duties for HS code 5603.11 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of nonwovens classified under 5603.11 has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 4.00%, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.04 (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit weight or volume) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, especially for certain types of nonwovens or under specific trade regimes. It is crucial to confirm the calculation method and applicable rates with the destination country's customs regulations.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 5603.11, and what are the general requirements?
Many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can provide preferential duty rates, potentially reducing or eliminating duties for HS code 5603.11. Examples include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), agreements between the EU and various partner countries (e.g., CETA with Canada, EPAs with African nations), and the UK's global FTA network. The primary requirement to benefit from these agreements is meeting the product-specific Rules of Origin (ROO). This typically involves demonstrating that the nonwovens, or the man-made filaments used to produce them, have undergone sufficient transformation or meet a regional value content threshold within the FTA's member countries. A Certificate of Origin is usually required as proof.