HS 590610 Adhesive tape of a width not exceeding 20 cm
Quick Answer: Adhesive tape of a width not exceeding 20 cm enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.60%, and the US at a duty-free rate for many trading partners, with other rates including 2.9% and 40%. This HS code specifically covers tapes with an adhesive coating, such as those used for packaging, sealing, or medical purposes, provided their width is 20 cm or less. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US, as significant variations exist. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these precise rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5906100000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5906100000 | 4.60 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5906100000 | 2.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 5906.10?
Imports of Adhesive tape of a width not exceeding 20 cm 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, GSP, and 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 590610 cover?
This subheading covers adhesive tapes of a width not exceeding 20 centimeters, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are typically textile materials, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered, or laminated with plastics or rubber, which possess adhesive properties and are presented in rolls. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the key distinguishing factor is the width limitation, ensuring these are not wider industrial tapes.
What falls outside HS 590610?
The following products are excluded from HS 590610: adhesive tapes exceeding 20 centimeters in width, which would be classified under HS 590690. Also excluded are adhesive tapes made from materials other than textiles, such as pure plastic films or paper-based tapes without a textile backing, which fall under different headings. For instance, simple plastic adhesive tapes are typically classified under Chapter 39, and paper-based tapes under Chapter 48, irrespective of their width.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 590610?
A common error is misinterpreting the width limitation or the textile basis of the tape. Importers may incorrectly classify wider adhesive tapes under this subheading or include non-textile based adhesive products. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, meaning the textile component and the 20 cm width are paramount for this specific code.
How should importers classify products under HS 590610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 590610 involves a two-step verification process. First, confirm that the product is indeed an adhesive tape made of textile material. Second, precisely measure its width; if the width is 20 cm or less, it falls under this subheading. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, for definitive guidance and any specific national subdivisions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 590610?
A roll of textile adhesive tape, 2 cm wide, weighing 50 grams and declared at a customs value of $10.00 USD would attract a US duty of $0.35. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem applied to the declared customs value ($10.00 × 0.035 = $0.35). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 590610.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 590610?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 590610, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, preferential rates may apply under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (though not yet fully ratified, existing trade arrangements often provide benefits). Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, or potentially a EUR.1 movement certificate for other agreements if applicable.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 590610, adhesive tape not exceeding 20 cm in width?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 590610 can vary. For example, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule may list rates such as 4.00% or 4.60% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system might show a rate of 2.9% ad valorem, while the UK Trade Tariff could list 4.00% ad valorem. It's crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable at the time of import. These rates are typically applied to the customs value of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 590610, using an example?
Duty calculation for HS code 590610 is generally based on an ad valorem rate, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import adhesive tape valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.04 (Duty Rate) = $400 USD. Always verify the applicable duty rate and ensure accurate customs valuation.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 590610?
HS code 590610 specifically covers 'Adhesive tape of a width not exceeding 20 cm'. The primary classification criterion is the material composition (textile materials, rubber, or plastics) and the fact that it is coated or covered with adhesive, and its width must be 20 cm or less. Tapes exceeding this width would fall under a different HS code. The WCO's Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing this category from other adhesive products.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 590610?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 590610. For example, under certain agreements, countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), Mexico (MX), and Singapore (SG) may benefit from reduced or free trade. The provided sample rates indicate 'Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)', suggesting that imports from these listed countries or blocs might be duty-free or subject to significantly lower rates upon presentation of a valid Certificate of Origin. Importers must confirm eligibility and specific requirements under each trade agreement.
What documentation is typically required for importing adhesive tape under HS code 590610?
Standard import documentation for HS code 590610 typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional certifications related to safety standards or material composition might be requested by customs authorities. Consulting with a customs broker is advisable to ensure all specific documentation requirements are met.