HS 560312 Weighing more than 25 g/m2 but not more than 70 g/m2
Quick Answer: Nonwovens imported under HS 560312 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.30%, and the US at 74% under the MFN rate. This code specifically covers man-made fiber nonwovens weighing more than 25 grams per square meter but not exceeding 70 grams per square meter. These materials are commonly used in applications such as disposable hygiene products, medical textiles, and filtration media. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity for this product in the US market, which may necessitate exploring trade agreements or alternative sourcing strategies. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603120000 | — | — | — |
| 5603121000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603121090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603129000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603121010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603121000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603129060 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603129090 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603120000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603121010 | 4.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603120010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 56031200 | Free | — | — |
| 5603120070 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5603120095 | — | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 560312 cover?
This subheading covers nonwovens and articles thereof, of man-made filaments, weighing more than 25 g/m² but not more than 70 g/m². According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes synthetic or artificial textile materials that have been formed into a sheet or web by bonding, entangling, or needling, and fall within the specified weight range. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm this scope, focusing on the material composition and weight per square meter as primary classification criteria.
What falls outside HS 560312?
The following products are excluded from HS 560312: nonwovens weighing less than or equal to 25 g/m² or more than 70 g/m², which are classified under HS 560311 or 560313 respectively. Also excluded are nonwovens made from natural fibers, or those that are felted or knitted, as these fall under different HS headings. For instance, bonded fabrics that are laminated or coated, or articles made from these nonwovens that have a specific end-use (e.g., medical gowns), may be classified elsewhere based on additional processing or function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 560312?
A common error is miscalculating or misreporting the weight per square meter (g/m²). This specific subheading is precisely defined by its weight range, and exceeding or falling short of the 25-70 g/m² threshold by even a small margin will lead to incorrect classification. Another mistake involves confusing nonwovens with woven or knitted fabrics, or with paper products, which are governed by different HS chapters and headings. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 560312?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 560312 involves first identifying the material composition (man-made filaments) and then accurately determining the weight per square meter. Importers and customs brokers must obtain precise technical specifications from the manufacturer, including the basis weight in grams per square meter. Cross-referencing these specifications with the official tariff schedule, such as the UK Trade Tariff or the USITC HTS, is essential to confirm the correct subheading. If the product meets the criteria of being a nonwoven of man-made filaments and weighs between 25.01 g/m² and 70.00 g/m², then HS 560312 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 560312?
A shipment of 1,000 square meters of a nonwoven fabric for medical drapes, weighing 50 g/m² and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. 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), and an additional duty of $0.01 per square meter ($1000 m² × $0.01/m² = $10.00), resulting in a total duty of $35.00. This calculation is based on the specific rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 560312. *Note: This example uses hypothetical specific duties for illustrative purposes; actual duties may vary.*
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 560312?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 560312, 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) may also offer preferential rates for goods originating from member countries. To claim these preferences, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement, depending on the agreement and jurisdiction, is typically required. For goods originating from developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A may be necessary.
```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 560312 (nonwovens, weighing more than 25 g/m² but not more than 70 g/m²)?
Import duty rates for HS code 560312 vary by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff may have different rates, often influenced by trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates. Some preferential trade agreements may offer reduced or zero duty rates.
How is HS code 560312 classified, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 560312 falls under Chapter 56, which covers 'Wadding, articles of felt; textile materials; special yarn; twine, cordage, ropes and cables and articles thereof.' Specifically, 5603 covers 'Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated.' The subheading 560312 is distinguished by the weight of the nonwoven fabric: it must weigh more than 25 g/m² but not more than 70 g/m². The material composition (e.g., synthetic or artificial fibers) is also a critical factor in determining the correct HS code within this chapter.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 560312?
Standard import documentation for goods under HS 560312 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications or technical data sheets that confirm the weight (g/m²) and fiber composition of the nonwoven material to substantiate the HS classification.
How is the import duty for HS 560312 calculated, using a concrete example?
Import duty is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if nonwoven fabric classified under HS 560312 is imported into the United States with an MFN duty rate of 4.00%, and the declared customs value of the shipment is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 4.00% (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always verify the duty calculation method for the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 560312, and how can importers benefit?
The duty rates for HS code 560312 can be significantly reduced or eliminated under various preferential trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries that are signatories to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may benefit from preferential rates when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico. Similarly, goods originating from countries within the EU may benefit from reduced duties within the EU single market. Importers can benefit by obtaining a valid Certificate of Origin from their supplier, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. This documentation is essential for claiming preferential treatment and reducing overall landed costs.