About HS Code 550390
This HS code is a residual category covering synthetic staple fibers made from materials not specifically enumerated in other subheadings of 5503, and which have not undergone further processing like carding or combing. These are short, discontinuous fibers, distinct from continuous filament tow, and serve as raw materials for a diverse range of textile and non-textile products. This category might include fibers like elastane (spandex), aramid staple fibers (if not covered elsewhere), or specialty high-performance synthetic fibers. Major importers are typically countries with advanced textile manufacturing, non-woven industries, or specialized technical textile production, such as the EU, USA, and Japan. Exporters often include nations with sophisticated chemical industries and specialized fiber production, like China, Japan, and the USA. The trade in these "other" synthetic staple fibers is driven by niche applications requiring specific performance characteristics, innovation in polymer science, and the demand for specialized blends.
Products Under This Code
Elastane staple fibers, Aramid staple fibers (non-specific), Polyurethane staple fibers, Polyethylene staple fibers, Specialty high-performance staple fibers, Bi-component staple fibers, Flame-retardant specialty staple fibers
Real World Examples
Invista Lycra (staple form), Teijin Aramid (staple form), Kuraray Vectran (staple form), DSM Dyneema (staple form), Toray specialty fibers (staple form)
Common Misclassification
This "n.e.c." (not elsewhere specified) code is a catch-all, making misclassification common with other specific synthetic staple fiber codes (e.g., 550311 for aramid staple, 550320 for polyester staple) if the fiber type is not clearly defined. It's crucial to ensure the fiber isn't explicitly covered by another 5503 subheading.
Products Classified Under 5503.90
Industry
This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.
Trade Overview
Top importers include the EU, USA, and Japan, while major exporters are China, Japan, and the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 550390?
HS code 550390 covers: Fibres; synthetic staple fibres, of synthetic materials n.e.c. in heading no. 5503, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning. This HS code is a residual category covering synthetic staple fibers made from materials not specifically enumerated in other subheadings of 5503, and which have not undergone further processing like carding or combing. These are short, discontinuous fibers, distinct from continuous filament tow, and serve as raw materials for a diverse range of textile and non-textile products. This category might include fibers like elastane (spandex), aramid staple fibers (if not covered elsewhere), or specialty high-performance synthetic fibers. Major importers are typically countries with advanced textile manufacturing, non-woven industries, or specialized technical textile production, such as the EU, USA, and Japan. Exporters often include nations with sophisticated chemical industries and specialized fiber production, like China, Japan, and the USA. The trade in these "other" synthetic staple fibers is driven by niche applications requiring specific performance characteristics, innovation in polymer science, and the demand for specialized blends.
What products fall under HS code 550390?
Elastane staple fibers, Aramid staple fibers (non-specific), Polyurethane staple fibers, Polyethylene staple fibers, Specialty high-performance staple fibers, Bi-component staple fibers, Flame-retardant specialty staple fibers
What are common misclassifications for HS code 550390?
This "n.e.c." (not elsewhere specified) code is a catch-all, making misclassification common with other specific synthetic staple fiber codes (e.g., 550311 for aramid staple, 550320 for polyester staple) if the fiber type is not clearly defined. It's crucial to ensure the fiber isn't explicitly covered by another 5503 subheading.
How is HS code 550390 structured?
HS code 550390 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (03) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.