HS Code Subheading

Sewing thread; of artificial staple fibres, whether or not put up for retail sale

5508.20 Subheading
Section XI — Textiles and textile articles

About HS Code 550820

This HS code covers sewing threads made from artificial staple fibers, which are crucial components in the global textile and apparel manufacturing supply chain. These threads are valued for their strength, durability, and often their aesthetic qualities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from garment construction to upholstery and industrial sewing. Major importers are typically countries with large garment production industries, such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Mexico, which source these threads from specialized manufacturers globally. Exporters often include nations with advanced chemical and textile industries like China, India, and Taiwan. Key things to know include the importance of thread count, tensile strength, and colorfastness for specific applications, as well as compliance with various international textile standards. The trade in these threads is a significant indicator of activity in the downstream apparel and home furnishings sectors, reflecting global consumer demand for finished textile products.

Products Under This Code

Rayon sewing thread, Viscose sewing thread, Modal sewing thread, Lyocell sewing thread, Cupro sewing thread, Acetate sewing thread, Triacetate sewing thread

Real World Examples

Coats Astra, Gütermann Sew-all Thread (artificial fiber variants), A&E Perma Core (artificial fiber variants)

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with 550810 (sewing thread of synthetic staple fibres) due to the similar end-use but different fiber origin (artificial vs. synthetic). It might also be confused with general yarns (Chapter 55, other headings) if not clearly identified as "sewing thread."

Products Classified Under 5508.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Textiles & Clothing industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Mexico, while major exporters are China, India, and Taiwan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 550820?

HS code 550820 covers: Sewing thread; of artificial staple fibres, whether or not put up for retail sale. This HS code covers sewing threads made from artificial staple fibers, which are crucial components in the global textile and apparel manufacturing supply chain. These threads are valued for their strength, durability, and often their aesthetic qualities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from garment construction to upholstery and industrial sewing. Major importers are typically countries with large garment production industries, such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Mexico, which source these threads from specialized manufacturers globally. Exporters often include nations with advanced chemical and textile industries like China, India, and Taiwan. Key things to know include the importance of thread count, tensile strength, and colorfastness for specific applications, as well as compliance with various international textile standards. The trade in these threads is a significant indicator of activity in the downstream apparel and home furnishings sectors, reflecting global consumer demand for finished textile products.

What products fall under HS code 550820?

Rayon sewing thread, Viscose sewing thread, Modal sewing thread, Lyocell sewing thread, Cupro sewing thread, Acetate sewing thread, Triacetate sewing thread

What are common misclassifications for HS code 550820?

This code can be confused with 550810 (sewing thread of synthetic staple fibres) due to the similar end-use but different fiber origin (artificial vs. synthetic). It might also be confused with general yarns (Chapter 55, other headings) if not clearly identified as "sewing thread."

How is HS code 550820 structured?

HS code 550820 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (55) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.