HS 701961 Mechanically bonded fabrics
Quick Answer: Glass-fiber fabrics, mechanically bonded, imported under HS 701961 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 7.00%, and the US at 50% under the MFN rate. This classification covers non-woven glass fiber materials where the fibers are interlocked through mechanical means, such as needle-punching, rather than chemical bonding or weaving. These fabrics are often used for insulation, filtration, and reinforcement. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates across different trade blocs and consult specific tariff schedules for precise application. According to CustomTariffs data, while the US imposes a significant duty, other major markets have more moderate rates for this category.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7019610000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610011 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610019 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610083 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610085 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7019610000 | 7.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610019 | 7.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610029 | 7.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610070 | 7.00 % | — | — |
| 7019610083 | 7.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7019610500 | Free | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>","kg"] |
| 7019611000 | 6% | Free (14 programs) | ["m<sup>2</sup>","kg"] |
| 7019619030 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>","kg"] |
| 701961 | — | — | — |
| 7019614030 | — | — | ["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 7019.61?
Imports of Mechanically bonded fabrics 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 701961 cover?
This subheading covers mechanically bonded fabrics of glass fibers, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are textiles made from glass fibers that are interlocked or consolidated through mechanical means, such as needle-punching, rather than by chemical bonding agents or weaving. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, typically including non-woven glass fiber mats and felts used for insulation, filtration, or reinforcement, provided they are not further processed into specific articles under other headings.
What falls outside HS 701961?
The following products are excluded from HS 701961: woven fabrics of glass fibers (classified under 7019.4x or 7019.5x), knitted or crocheted fabrics of glass fibers (classified under 7019.7x), glass wool and glass wool products (classified under 7019.10), and fabrics of glass fibers impregnated or coated with plastics or rubber (which may fall under Chapter 39 or 40). Also excluded are finished articles made from these fabrics, such as specific types of insulation panels or filtration media, which are classified according to their end-use or form.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 701961?
A common error is misinterpreting the "mechanically bonded" criterion, leading to the incorrect classification of chemically bonded or heat-bonded glass fiber fabrics under this subheading. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 and GIR 3(b) are crucial here; if a product could be classified under multiple headings, the most specific heading or the heading describing the essential character of the good should be applied. Importers may also mistakenly classify glass fiber fabrics with a specific function, like filtration media, under 701961 when a more specific heading for the finished product exists.
How should importers classify products under HS 701961?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 701961 involves a detailed examination of the manufacturing process and the physical characteristics of the glass fiber textile. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the fibers are consolidated solely through mechanical action, such as interlocking by needles. Reviewing product specifications, technical data sheets, and potentially consulting with the manufacturer is essential. Cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or UK Trade Tariff will confirm the appropriate classification based on the specific construction and composition.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 701961?
A roll of mechanically bonded glass fiber insulation mat weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $1,000 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,000 USD × 0.035 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 7019.61.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 701961?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 701961, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, certain developing countries may benefit from preferential rates under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), often requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation requirements depend on the origin country and the importing jurisdiction's trade agreement provisions.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 701961, 'Mechanically bonded fabrics'?
The import duty rates for HS code 701961 vary by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.00% ad valorem. Other countries may have different rates. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 7.00% ad valorem for goods from most countries. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is HS code 701961 defined, and what are its classification criteria?
HS code 701961 specifically covers 'Mechanically bonded fabrics' made of glass fibers. This means the glass fibers are held together by mechanical means, such as entanglement or stitching, rather than by chemical binders or resins. The key classification criterion is the method of bonding: if the fabric is formed by physically interlocking or entangling glass fibers, it falls under this heading. Fabrics bonded with chemical binders would typically be classified elsewhere.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreements that might affect the import duties for HS code 701961?
Yes, preferential duty rates can significantly impact the cost of importing goods under HS code 701961. For example, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing nation may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates. For instance, under the EU's Combined Nomenclature (CN), which aligns with the HS, fabrics of glass fibers may have preferential rates if they originate from countries with preferential trade agreements. Importers must ensure they have valid proof of origin to claim these benefits. Always verify the specific provisions of applicable trade agreements.
How is the import duty for HS code 701961 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 701961 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate in the U.S. is 6.00% and you import mechanically bonded glass fiber fabric with a declared customs value of $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.06 (Duty Rate) = $600. This $600 would be the import duty payable. Always ensure your customs value is correctly determined according to international valuation rules (e.g., WTO Customs Valuation Agreement).
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 701961?
When importing mechanically bonded fabrics (HS 701961), standard import documentation is generally required. 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 transport. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Customs authorities may also request technical specifications or product literature to verify the classification and ensure compliance with any specific product standards.