HS 591120 Bolting cloth, whether or not made up

Quick Answer: Bolting cloth, whether or not made up, imported under HS 591120 enters the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 4.60%, and the US at 63% (MFN). This classification covers woven fabrics of a kind used for sifting, filtering, or similar industrial purposes, typically made from synthetic or natural fibers, with a fine mesh. These fabrics are crucial for industries such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Importers should note the significant duty rate disparity in the US compared to the EU and UK, which may influence sourcing decisions. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance planning.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5911200000 4.00 % — —
5911200020 4.00 % — —
5911200090 4.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5911200000 4.60 % — —
5911200020 4.60 % — —
5911200090 4.60 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
5911203000 Free — ["m<sup>2</sup>","<u>kg</u>"]
591120 — — —
5911201000 3.3% Free (15 programs) ["m<sup>2</sup>","kg"]
5911202000 Free — ["m<sup>2</sup>","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 5911.20?

Imports of Bolting cloth, whether or not made up 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 13 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?

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What products does HS 591120 cover?

This subheading covers "Bolting cloth, whether or not made up," as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This specifically refers to woven fabrics of textile materials, with a fine mesh, used for sifting or screening, particularly in the milling of flour. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to such specialized textiles, often characterized by their precise weave and durability, regardless of whether they are presented as cut pieces or in a finished state for specific industrial applications.

What falls outside HS 591120?

The following products are excluded from HS 591120: general woven fabrics not specifically designed for bolting or sifting, such as apparel fabrics or upholstery textiles. Additionally, industrial fabrics with coarser meshes or different material compositions, like filter cloths for liquid filtration or screens for construction purposes, are classified elsewhere. For instance, fine mesh fabrics used for insect screens or window coverings would typically fall under different headings within Chapter 59 or Chapter 70, depending on their material and primary function.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 591120?

A common error is misclassifying general textile materials or industrial fabrics that do not meet the specific criteria of "bolting cloth." This can occur when the fine mesh, precise weave, and intended use for sifting fine particles, such as flour, are not adequately considered. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are presented in sets, classification is determined by the component that gives them their essential character, which for bolting cloth is its specific textile construction and function.

How should importers classify products under HS 591120?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 591120 involves a thorough examination of the textile's construction, mesh size, material composition, and intended application. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System. Verifying that the fabric is specifically manufactured and used for sifting fine materials like flour is crucial for accurate classification.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 591120?

A shipment of 100 square meters of synthetic bolting cloth, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 591120.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 591120?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 591120, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying bolting cloth originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is typically required. For imports into the European Union from certain developing countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duty rates, often requiring a GSP Form A.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 591140 HS 591131 HS 591110 HS 591132 HS 590700 HS 590110

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 591120 (Bolting cloth)?

Import duty rates for HS code 591120, 'Bolting cloth, whether or not made up,' vary by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, preferential rates may apply under Free Trade Agreements. In the European Union, the TARIC system indicates a duty rate of 4.00% ad valorem for goods originating from countries without a preferential trade agreement. For the UK, the duty rate is also 4.00% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change.

How is 'bolting cloth' defined for HS classification purposes under code 591120?

Bolting cloth, classified under HS code 591120, refers to textile fabrics of a kind used for making up into, or as, bolting, sieves, or filtering. Key characteristics include a relatively open weave and often made from synthetic or natural fibers such as silk, cotton, or synthetic filaments. The fabrics are typically woven on looms and are intended for separating particles of different sizes. The World Customs Organization (WCO) notes that the essential character is derived from its function as a filtering or sifting material. Importers should ensure the fabric's intended use and construction align with this definition to avoid misclassification.

What documentation is typically required for importing bolting cloth under HS 591120?

Standard documentation for importing bolting cloth (HS 591120) generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For specific applications, such as industrial filtering, technical specifications or a manufacturer's declaration confirming the fabric's properties might be requested by customs authorities to verify compliance with classification criteria.

How is the import duty calculated for bolting cloth, and can you provide an example?

The import duty for bolting cloth (HS 591120) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the customs value of the imported goods. The customs value is usually the transaction value, which includes the price paid or payable for the goods, plus certain other costs like shipping and insurance.

For example, if a shipment of bolting cloth has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem (as seen in some EU or UK tariffs), the duty calculation would be:

Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 4.00% (or 0.04) Duty Amount = $400 USD

Therefore, the import duty payable would be $400 USD. It is important to note that some countries may also apply specific duties or have different calculation methods, and the customs value must be determined according to the importing country's regulations.

Which trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS 591120?

Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for bolting cloth (HS 591120). For instance, goods originating from countries that are signatories to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from preferential duty rates when imported into the United States, Canada, or Mexico, potentially reaching Free. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide, which could grant preferential treatment for bolting cloth imported into the EU. The UK also has a network of FTAs post-Brexit. To determine eligibility for preferential rates, importers must ensure the bolting cloth meets the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin.