HS 591140 Filtering or straining cloth of a kind used in oil-presses or the like, including that of human hair
Quick Answer: Textile materials for filtering or straining, specifically those used in oil presses or similar machinery, including those made from human hair, fall under HS code 591140. These goods imported under HS 591140 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.00%, and the US at 8% (with duty-free provisions for certain trade partners). Importers should verify specific preferential rates applicable to their origin country. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying duty structures is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5911400000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5911400000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5911400100 | 8% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 5911.40?
Imports of Filtering or straining cloth of a kind used in oil-presses or the like, including that of human hair 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 591140 cover?
This subheading covers filtering or straining cloth specifically designed for use in oil presses or similar industrial machinery. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this includes woven, felted, or non-woven fabrics made from various textile materials, including synthetic fibers, cotton, and notably, human hair, when their construction and intended use are for separating solids from liquids in pressing operations, such as in the processing of vegetable oils or other industrial fluids.
What falls outside HS 591140?
The following products are excluded from HS 591140: general-purpose filtering or straining cloths not specifically intended for oil presses or similar machinery, such as those used in household kitchens or for laboratory filtration. Fabrics that are primarily for other industrial applications, like dust collection bags (typically classified under heading 591190) or conveyor belts (heading 5910), are also excluded. Furthermore, finished articles like filter bags or cartridges, unless they are simply cut pieces of the specified cloth, would generally fall under different classifications based on their finished form and function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 591140?
A common error is misclassifying general industrial filter media that do not meet the specific "oil-presses or the like" requirement of this subheading. For instance, filter cloths used in water treatment or air filtration, even if made of similar materials, are typically classified under other headings within Chapter 59 or elsewhere, depending on their specific characteristics and intended use. 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 to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 591140?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 591140 involves a detailed examination of the product's material composition, construction, and, most importantly, its intended end-use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the fabric is specifically manufactured or marketed for use in oil presses or analogous industrial straining applications. Reviewing technical specifications, product literature, and supplier declarations is essential. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, for specific notes and rulings related to heading 5911 is also a critical step.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 591140?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of specialized synthetic filtering cloth for oil presses, declared at a customs value of $10,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, the calculated duty would be $350.00 USD ($10,000 USD × 0.035). This calculation is based on the ad valorem rate applied to the declared customs value, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for subheading 591140.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 591140?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 591140, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico can achieve a duty rate of Free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, for goods originating from certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates, which can also be Free for eligible countries.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 591140, 'Filtering or straining cloth of a kind used in oil-presses or the like, including that of human hair'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 591140 can vary. For instance, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the MFN rate is 6.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are often available. For example, under the US HTS, this classification may benefit from duty-free entry from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR) under specific trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the latest HTS or relevant national tariff schedule for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your specific import.
What specific criteria determine if a filtering or straining cloth falls under HS code 591140?
To be classified under HS code 591140, the filtering or straining cloth must be specifically designed or 'of a kind used' in oil-presses or similar machinery for filtering or straining. This implies a certain weave, material, or construction that makes it suitable for such industrial applications. The inclusion of 'that of human hair' in the description indicates that such specialized cloths made from human hair are also covered. Importers should ensure the product's intended use and technical specifications align with this description. Documentation from the manufacturer detailing the cloth's properties and intended application is highly recommended.
How is the import duty for HS code 591140 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 591140 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.00% and you import 100 kilograms of filtering cloth with a declared customs value of $500, the duty calculation would be: 6.00% of $500 = $30.00. If the tariff also includes a specific duty component (e.g., per unit weight), that would be calculated separately and the higher of the two (or combined, depending on the tariff structure) would apply. Always verify the exact duty calculation method with the relevant customs authority.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 591140?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 591140. For imports into the United States, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may offer reduced or zero duties for goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Other agreements, such as those with Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Australia (AU), often list this HS code as eligible for preferential treatment, typically resulting in duty-free entry. For imports into the EU, the EU's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) database will detail preferential rates under agreements with various countries. UK importers should consult the UK Global Tariff. It is essential for importers to confirm the rules of origin and eligibility under the specific trade agreement.
What documentation is typically required when importing filtering or straining cloth under HS code 591140?
When importing filtering or straining cloth under HS code 591140, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, to support the classification and claim any preferential duty rates, importers may need to provide a certificate of origin. A manufacturer's declaration or technical data sheet detailing the cloth's material, construction, and intended use (specifically for oil-presses or similar applications) can be invaluable in demonstrating compliance with the HS code description. Customs brokers should be consulted for specific requirements based on the importing country and the nature of the goods.