HS 560394 Weighing more than 150 g/m2
Quick Answer: Nonwovens weighing more than 150 g/m² imported under HS 560394 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.30%, and the US with a range of rates, including 40% and 74% under the MFN tariff, with some items entering duty-free. This classification specifically applies to fabrics made from artificial or synthetic filaments or fibers, which are neither knitted nor crocheted, and exceed a weight of 150 grams per square meter. Importers should note the significant duty rate variations across major markets, requiring careful consideration for landed cost calculations. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise classification for compliance and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603941000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603940000 | — | — | — |
| 5603948030 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603942000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 5603948000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603948090 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603940000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603941000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603942000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
| 5603948000 | 4.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5603949010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 560394 | — | — | — |
| 56039410 | Free | — | — |
| 5603949030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 5603949050 | — | — | ["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 560394 cover?
This subheading covers nonwovens and articles thereof, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated, weighing more than 150 g/m². According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes a broad range of synthetic or artificial textile materials produced by bonding fibers or filaments together mechanically, thermally, or chemically. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that the defining characteristic for classification under 5603.94 is the weight exceeding 150 grams per square meter, irrespective of the specific fibers used or the manufacturing process, provided they are not knitted or crocheted.
What falls outside HS 560394?
The following products are excluded from HS 5603.94: nonwovens weighing 150 g/m² or less, which are classified under HS 5603.11, 5603.12, 5603.13, 5603.14, 5603.91, 5603.92, or 5603.93 depending on their weight and material composition. Additionally, knitted or crocheted fabrics of textile materials, even if they resemble nonwovens, are classified in Chapter 60. Products that are significantly impregnated with substances that alter their essential character, such as paper impregnated with bitumen or asphalt, are also excluded and classified elsewhere based on their primary characteristic.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 560394?
A common error is miscalculating or inaccurately determining the weight per square meter of the nonwoven material. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify finished articles made from these nonwovens under this heading without considering specific product notes or headings for made-up articles, such as those in Chapter 63, if the nonwoven material is merely a component.
How should importers classify products under HS 560394?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 5603.94 involves a multi-step process. First, determine if the product is a nonwoven textile material. Second, accurately measure its weight in grams per square meter. If this weight exceeds 150 g/m², then it falls within the scope of heading 5603. Finally, consult the specific national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to confirm the correct subheading and any specific exclusions or additional requirements. Obtaining a technical data sheet from the manufacturer detailing the weight is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 560394?
A roll of spunbond polypropylene nonwoven fabric weighing 200 g/m², measuring 100 square meters, 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 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 10% = $50.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 5603.94.9000, which applies to nonwovens weighing more than 150 g/m².
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 560394?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 5603.94, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying nonwovens originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying products from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation depend on the origin country and the terms of the respective trade agreement.
```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 5603.94, which covers nonwovens weighing more than 150 g/m²?
Import duty rates for HS code 5603.94 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 4.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate can be 4.00% ad valorem, but specific trade agreements or origin rules may apply. The UK Trade Tariff also lists rates, often around 4.00% ad valorem for MFN. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change and be influenced by trade agreements.
How is the classification of nonwovens under HS code 5603.94 determined, specifically the 'weighing more than 150 g/m²' criterion?
The classification under HS code 5603.94 hinges on two primary factors: first, that the material is a 'nonwoven' (meaning it is manufactured by entangling fibers or filaments, bonded by mechanical, thermal, or chemical means, without weaving or knitting); and second, that its weight exceeds 150 grams per square meter (g/m²). Importers must ensure their product meets the definition of a nonwoven and provide accurate weight documentation, such as a certificate of analysis or manufacturer's specification, to customs authorities to substantiate the classification. This weight threshold is a critical determinant for distinguishing it from lighter nonwoven fabrics classified under other subheadings.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 5603.94?
For goods classified under HS code 5603.94, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to support the classification and ensure compliance, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. A technical specification sheet or manufacturer's declaration detailing the nonwoven nature of the product and confirming its weight (exceeding 150 g/m²) is highly recommended to avoid classification disputes with customs authorities. Depending on the destination country's regulations, other certifications related to product safety or environmental standards might also be necessary.
How can trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 5603.94?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS code 5603.94 if the nonwoven fabric originates from a partner country. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying nonwoven fabrics may receive preferential treatment, potentially resulting in a Free duty rate, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries that could grant preferential access. To benefit from these agreements, importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the specific origin criteria outlined in the respective trade agreement. Without proper documentation, the standard MFN duty rate will apply.
Can you provide a concrete example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 5603.94?
Certainly. Let's assume an importer is bringing 10,000 square meters of nonwoven fabric weighing 200 g/m² into the United States, classified under HS code 5603.94. The MFN duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. First, we need the declared value of the goods. If the declared value for customs purposes is $1.50 per square meter, the total value is 10,000 m² * $1.50/m² = $15,000. The import duty would then be calculated as 4.00% of $15,000, which equals $600. The calculation is: Duty = (Total Value) × (Ad Valorem Rate) = $15,000 × 0.04 = $600. It's important to note that some countries might apply duties based on weight (specific duty) or a combination of value and weight (compound duty), but for this example and common treatment of 5603.94 in many jurisdictions, an ad valorem rate is used.