HS Code for Polyester rayon blend yarn

Polyester rayon blend yarn is classified under HS code 5509.51. This classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically focusing on the material composition and the state of the fibers. Chapter 55 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule is dedicated to man-made staple fibers. Heading 5509 specifically covers yarn (other than sewing thread) of synthetic staple fibers, not put up for retail sale. The subheading 5509.51 is designated for yarn of polyester staple fibers mixed mainly or solely with artificial staple fibers, such as rayon or viscose. To be classified here, the fibers must be "staple," meaning they are of finite length and have been spun together, as opposed to continuous filaments. Furthermore, the "not put up for retail sale" provision implies the yarn is typically imported in large industrial packages like cones or beams intended for further manufacturing. The blend ratio is a critical factor; if the yarn is mixed with artificial fibers and the polyester predominates by weight among the synthetic fibers, 5509.51 is the appropriate classification. The classification process also involves examining the physical properties of the yarn, such as its linear density and twist. Under Section XI of the HS nomenclature, specific notes define the transition from yarn to twine or cordage. For 5509.51, the yarn must not meet the criteria for twine or cordage found in heading 5607. Additionally, the presence of any other fibers, such as cotton or wool, must be secondary to the polyester-rayon blend. If the yarn were put up for retail sale—meaning in balls, hanks, or skeins of a specific weight—it would instead be classified under heading 5511. Importers must provide detailed mill certificates or composition lab reports to verify the percentage of polyester versus rayon to satisfy customs authorities that the "mainly or solely" requirement of the subheading is met.

Products Included

• Spun polyester-viscose blended yarn
• Polyester-rayon ring-spun yarn
• Open-end polyester-rayon yarn for weaving
• Industrial polyester-artificial fiber blended yarn
• Multi-ply blended staple fiber yarn

Common Misclassification

This product is frequently confused with HS code 5402, which covers synthetic filament yarn. The primary difference is that 5509.51 applies to staple fibers (spun), while 5402 applies to continuous filaments. It is also often misclassified under 5509.21 if the rayon content is overlooked, or 5511.10 if the yarn is packaged for retail sale.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Polyester rayon blend yarn?

The HS code for polyester rayon blend yarn is 5509.51.

Does this code apply to yarn put up for retail sale?

No, yarn put up for retail sale is classified under heading 5511, specifically 5511.10 or 5511.20 depending on the blend.