HS 988055 Classified in Chapter 55
Quick Answer: This HS code, 988055, is not a standard Harmonized System (HS) code used for general tariff classification. It appears to be a specific internal code or a placeholder used within certain systems, possibly for administrative or statistical purposes, rather than for determining general import duties. Therefore, there are no standard duty rates associated with HS 988055 across major jurisdictions like the UK or EU. Importers and customs brokers should verify the correct HS code for their specific goods, as this code does not provide classification guidance. CustomTariffs aggregates data for official HS codes, and this particular entry does not correspond to a globally recognized tariff line.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880550000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9880550000 | — | — | — |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 988055 cover?
This subheading covers products classified within Chapter 55 of the Harmonized System (HS) nomenclature, which pertains to man-made staple fibres. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) HS Explanatory Notes and as reflected in national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU's TARIC, this category includes synthetic staple fibres, such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, as well as artificial staple fibres like rayon and modal, provided they meet the definition of staple fibres (i.e., cut to specified lengths). It encompasses both carded and combed fibres ready for spinning.
What falls outside HS 988055?
The following products are excluded from HS 988055: continuous filament yarns (classified in Chapter 54), fibres that are not staple fibres (e.g., tow or sliver not yet cut to length), and fibres that have undergone further processing beyond carding or combing, such as spinning into yarn or felting. For instance, 100% spun polyester yarn, even if derived from staple fibres, would be classified under a different heading, typically within Chapter 50-55 but not as a raw staple fibre. Waste fibres are also generally excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 988055?
A common error is misinterpreting the "staple fibre" definition. Importers may mistakenly classify continuous filament tow or sliver, which has not been cut to length, under this heading, when it should be classified according to its material and form in Chapter 55 or 54. Another mistake involves confusing processed staple fibres with raw staple fibres; for example, classifying a blended staple fibre product that has undergone significant pre-spinning treatments as raw staple fibre when it might fall under a more specific provision or a different chapter if it constitutes a fabric or felt.
How should importers classify products under HS 988055?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 988055 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and its stage of processing. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official HS Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to determine if the material meets the definition of man-made staple fibres. Key considerations include whether the fibres are cut to a specific length and have undergone only carding or combing, not spinning or further manufacturing.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 988055?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of polyester staple fibre, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for relevant polyester staple fibres under Chapter 55, which is then referenced by the Chapter 98 provision. Note that specific end-use or origin might alter this rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 988055?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 988055, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating staple fibres from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate declaration is typically required, specifying the origin of the goods and compliance with the Agreement's rules of origin. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for specific countries of origin.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for goods classified under HS code 988055?
HS code 988055 is a special code used in certain jurisdictions, such as the United States, for specific statistical or administrative purposes, rather than a standard Harmonized System code for tariff classification. Goods that fall under the scope of 'Chapter 55' of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) of the United States, which covers man-made staple fibers, are subject to various duty rates. For example, certain polyester staple fibers may have a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem, while others could range higher. It is crucial to consult the HTSUS, specifically Chapter 55, for the precise classification and applicable duty rate for the specific product being imported. The USITC (United States International Trade Commission) website provides the official HTSUS.
How is the duty calculated for a product classified under Chapter 55 of the HTSUS, which might be referenced by 988055?
The duty calculation depends on the specific classification within Chapter 55 and the applicable duty rate. Most duties in Chapter 55 are based on the ad valorem system (a percentage of the value of the goods). For instance, if a specific type of synthetic staple fiber is classified under an HTSUS subheading with a 5% ad valorem duty rate, and the declared value of the imported goods is $10,000, the import duty would be $500 (5% of $10,000). Always refer to the HTSUS for the exact rate and the basis of valuation.
Are there preferential duty rates available for goods classified under Chapter 55 when imported into the United States?
Yes, preferential duty rates may be available depending on the country of origin and any applicable trade agreements the United States has in force. For example, goods originating from countries that are beneficiaries of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) might receive duty-free treatment or reduced rates. Similarly, trade agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) can offer preferential treatment for qualifying goods. Importers and customs brokers must verify the country of origin and consult the HTSUS, which details preferential rates and the specific requirements (e.g., Certificates of Origin) to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under Chapter 55 of the HTSUS?
Standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For goods classified under Chapter 55, specific documentation might be needed to support the classification and duty rate. This could include technical specifications or product data sheets to verify the fiber type, composition, and manufacturing process. If preferential duty rates are claimed, a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin acceptable under the relevant trade agreement will be mandatory. Always check the specific requirements for the importing country and the product's origin.
How does one accurately classify a product within Chapter 55 of the HTSUS, given that 988055 might be a reference code?
Accurate classification within Chapter 55 requires a detailed understanding of the product's characteristics. Chapter 55 covers 'Man-made staple fibres.' Key classification criteria include the material (e.g., synthetic or artificial), whether it is carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning, and its length. For example, synthetic staple fibers are further differentiated by their polymer type (e.g., polyester, nylon, acrylic). Importers and customs brokers should meticulously examine product specifications, consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (provided by the WCO), and use resources like the USITC's HTSUS to determine the most specific and correct subheading. If uncertainty remains, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority is advisable.