HS 844511 Machines for preparing textile fibres
Quick Answer: Machines for preparing textile fibres imported under HS 844511 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at a range of rates including free and 40% ad valorem. This classification covers machinery used in the initial stages of textile production to process raw fibres into a form suitable for spinning. This includes carding machines, combing machines, and drawing frames, which align fibres, remove impurities, and create slivers or rovings. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific rates based on the exact machine type and origin, as the US tariff schedule shows significant variation. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8445110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8445110000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8445110000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 844511 cover?
This subheading covers machines specifically designed for the initial preparation of textile fibres before spinning or other further processing. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes machines such as carding engines, combing machines, and sliver lap machines, which are essential for opening, cleaning, aligning, and drafting raw fibres into a more uniform state. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these machines are integral to the textile manufacturing process, transforming raw materials into usable slivers or rovings. For example, a carding machine, which disentangles, cleans, and partially aligns fibres, falls under this classification.
What falls outside HS 844511?
The following products are excluded from HS 844511: machines for spinning, doubling, or twisting textile yarns (classified under 8446 or 8447), machines for weaving or knitting (classified under 8446 or 8447), and machines for finishing textiles (classified under 8450 or 8451). Also excluded are machines for preparing man-made fibres in their artificial state, such as extruding or stretching machines, which are typically classified in heading 8444. For instance, a machine that weaves fabric from prepared yarn would not be classified here, nor would a machine that cleans and presses finished garments.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844511?
A common error is misclassifying machines that perform multiple functions, where the primary function is not fibre preparation. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3, when goods are classifiable under two or more headings or subheadings, classification is determined by the essential character. For example, a machine that both carding and spinning might be misclassified as solely a carding machine. Importers must carefully assess the machine's main purpose and the stage of textile processing it facilitates, ensuring it aligns with the specific definitions provided in the WCO HS Nomenclature and national tariff schedules like the UK Trade Tariff.
How should importers classify products under HS 844511?
The correct procedure for classifying machines under HS 844511 involves a thorough examination of the machine's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System, as well as the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. It is crucial to identify the machine's primary function in the textile fibre preparation process. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from the customs authority is the most reliable method to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844511?
A carding machine for wool, weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,250.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($25,000 USD × 0.05 = $1,250.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8445.11.0000. Note that specific rates can vary based on country of origin and any applicable trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying machinery originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. Similarly, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 844511 (Machines for preparing textile fibres)?
Import duty rates for HS code 844511 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may be eligible for duty-free entry. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify origin for preferential treatment.
How is the import duty for HS code 844511 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 844511 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a machine classified under 844511 has a customs value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.0170 = $170.00. Some countries may also have specific duties based on weight or other units, but ad valorem is most common for this classification.
What are the key classification criteria for machines under HS code 844511?
HS code 844511 covers machines designed for the initial preparation of textile fibres. This includes machinery for opening, carding, combing, or otherwise preparing fibres like cotton, wool, silk, or man-made fibres for spinning. The primary function must be to process raw fibres into a state suitable for subsequent spinning operations. Machines that perform different primary functions, such as spinning itself or weaving, would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing machines classified under HS code 844511?
Standard import documentation for machines under HS code 844511 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin. Depending on the importing country and the specific machine, you may also need an import license, safety certifications (e.g., CE marking for the EU), or technical specifications. It is crucial to confirm the exact requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country or your customs broker.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 844511?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for machines under HS code 844511. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides preferential treatment for goods traded between these North American countries. Similarly, the European Union's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and various bilateral FTAs the EU has with third countries can reduce or eliminate duties. Importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.