HS Code for Modacrylic staple fiber

Modacrylic staple fiber is classified under HS code 5503.30. This code is part of Chapter 55, which covers man-made staple fibers. Heading 5503 is dedicated to synthetic staple fibers that have not been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. This means the fiber is in its raw, bulk form, often referred to as tow that has been cut into specific lengths. Modacrylic is a specific type of synthetic fiber defined by having at least 35% but less than 85% acrylonitrile units. It is prized for its flame retardancy, which is an inherent property of the polymer itself. The classification 5503.30 is used for the bulk fiber, often shipped in large bales, before it undergoes the mechanical processes (carding or combing) that align the fibers for spinning into yarn. If the fibers were carded or combed, they would move to heading 5506. If the fibers were continuous filaments rather than cut staple lengths, they would be classified under heading 5501 (synthetic filament tow). Accurate classification under 5503.30 requires technical documentation specifying the chemical composition of the fiber and its physical state. Customs officials may use laboratory testing to verify that the acrylonitrile content falls within the modacrylic range.

Products Included

• Raw modacrylic staple fibers
• Cut modacrylic tow for spinning
• Flame-retardant synthetic staple fibers (modacrylic)
• Modacrylic fibers for non-woven applications
• Bulk modacrylic fiber bales

Common Misclassification

Modacrylic staple fiber is often misclassified under 5501.30 (synthetic filament tow) or 5506.30 (synthetic staple fibers, carded or combed). The distinction is based on the stage of processing; 5503.30 is only for raw, unprocessed staple fibers. It is also sometimes confused with 5503.20 (polyester staple fibers).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Modacrylic staple fiber?

The HS code for acrylic or modacrylic synthetic staple fibers, not carded or combed, is 5503.30.

What is the difference between acrylic and modacrylic staple fiber?

While both are under 5503.30, modacrylic contains higher levels of other polymers (like vinyl chloride) to enhance flame resistance, whereas standard acrylic is primarily acrylonitrile.