HS 600538 Other, of yarns of different colours
Quick Answer: Woven fabrics of synthetic or artificial yarns, specifically those where the yarns are of different colors, imported under HS 600538 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.00%, and the US at rates ranging from 10% to 113.5% (with preferential rates for certain trade partners). This classification applies to knitted or crocheted fabrics, not put up in sets, where the color variation is achieved through the use of yarns of different colors. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities, particularly in the US market, and consult specific tariff schedules for precise application. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to highlight such trade considerations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6005380000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6005380000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60053800 | 10% | Free (14 programs) | — |
| 6005380010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 6005380020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 6005380080 | — | — | ["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 6005.38?
Imports of Other, of yarns of different colours 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 12 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 600538 cover?
This subheading covers knitted or crocheted fabrics of synthetic fibres, specifically those not of a width exceeding 30 cm, which are made from yarns of different colours. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses fabrics where the colour variation is achieved through the use of yarns that are already coloured before knitting or crocheting, as opposed to being dyed after fabric formation. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further define these as fabrics where the constituent yarns exhibit distinct colours, contributing to the overall pattern or design of the textile.
What falls outside HS 600538?
The following products are excluded from HS 600538: knitted or crocheted fabrics of synthetic fibres that are of a single colour, fabrics dyed after knitting or crocheting, fabrics printed after knitting or crocheting, and fabrics made from yarns of different colours but exceeding 30 cm in width. For instance, a plain knitted fabric of polyester dyed a uniform blue would not fall under this code, nor would a fabric with a printed pattern. Fabrics made from natural fibres or blends not predominantly synthetic are also classified elsewhere, typically in other chapters of the HS.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 600538?
A common error is misinterpreting the "yarns of different colours" criterion. Importers may mistakenly classify fabrics that have been dyed or printed after knitting under this code, when General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) or specific Section/Chapter Notes would direct them to a different heading based on the method of colouration or the overall appearance. Another mistake involves confusing fabrics made from yarns of different colours with those where the colour effect is achieved through other means, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 600538?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 600538 involves a multi-step process. First, confirm the fabric is knitted or crocheted and composed of synthetic fibres. Second, verify that the colour variation originates from the use of yarns of different colours prior to fabrication. Third, ensure the fabric's width does not exceed 30 cm. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review explanatory notes for precise guidance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 600538?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of a knitted polyester fabric with yarns of different colours, not exceeding 30 cm in width, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem for this specific fabric under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be $375.00 USD (7.5% × $5,000 USD). This calculation is based on the declared customs value and the MFN rate published in the USITC HTS.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 600538?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 600538, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying fabrics of origin from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. For EU preferences, the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) or the Stabilization and Association Agreements (SAAs) may offer reduced or zero duties for originating goods from certain African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries or Balkan nations, respectively. Documentation typically required includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU preferences.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 6005.38, covering knitted or crocheted fabrics of synthetic monofilament or strip of a width not exceeding 5 cm, or of synthetic textile materials, other, of yarns of different colours?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 6005.38 is generally 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under certain trade agreements, countries like Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and the United States (US) may benefit from duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment, as rates can vary based on origin and trade agreements. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a 0% duty for goods from the EU and a 113.5% duty for goods from certain other countries, highlighting the importance of origin verification.
How is the duty for HS code 6005.38 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 6005.38 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import fabric valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.08 (8.00% duty rate) = $800 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise calculation method applicable to your import.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure fabric falls under HS code 6005.38?
To classify fabric under HS code 6005.38, it must meet the general heading criteria for knitted or crocheted fabrics (Chapter 60). Specifically, it must be made from synthetic monofilament or strip with a width not exceeding 5 cm, or from other synthetic textile materials. The crucial sub-heading criterion for 6005.38 is that the fabric must be made of 'yarns of different colours'. This means the fabric's appearance is achieved by using yarns of distinct colors in its construction, as opposed to being piece-dyed or printed after knitting. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide further clarification on the interpretation of 'yarns of different colours'.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 6005.38?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 6005.38. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Crucially, to benefit from preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a Certificate of Origin (COO) is usually mandatory. The COO must be issued by the competent authority in the exporting country and certify that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or fabric samples if requested by customs authorities to verify classification.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 6005.38, and what is the general outcome?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 6005.38. For instance, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), and various bilateral agreements the EU has with countries like South Korea, Canada, and Japan often result in reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying goods. As indicated in the sample rates, agreements with countries such as Australia, Chile, Israel, and Singapore frequently lead to a 'Free' duty rate. Importers must ensure their goods meet the specific Rules of Origin for each agreement to claim these benefits, which typically involve a certain percentage of regional value content or specific manufacturing processes occurring within the partner countries.