Analysis
HTS 5503.11.00 covers of nylon or other polyamides: of aramids under heading 5503 (synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning).
Within this group the rate runs from duty-free to 4.3%. Compared with 5503.90.10 (other: of vinyon), which pays duty-free, a misclassification either way moves the duty by 4.3 percentage points.
The general duty rate is 4.3% of the customs value, which is at the low end of the rates in chapter 55 (10th percentile of 133 lines with an ad valorem rate). On a shipment valued at $10,000 that is $430 in duty before any Chapter 99 additions or preference claims.
Goods that qualify under the Australia FTA, the Bahrain FTA, the Chile FTA, the Colombia TPA, the Israel FTA, and 9 others can enter duty-free instead of paying 4.3%. It is also eligible under GSP, the developing-country programme, which Congress has to renew; check whether GSP is in force on the entry date.
The column 2 rate, for countries without normal trade relations, is 25%, 5.8 times the general rate.
Neighbouring lines
| Line | Description | General rate |
|---|---|---|
| 5503.19.10 | Containing 10 percent or more by weight of nylon 12 | Free |
| 5503.19.90 | Other: other | 4.3% |
| 5503.20.00 | Synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning: of polyesters | 4.3% |
| 5503.30.00 | Acrylic or modacrylic | 4.3% |
| 5503.40.00 | Synthetic staple fibers, not carded, combed or otherwise processed for spinning: of polypropylene | 4.3% |
| 5503.90.10 | Other: of vinyon | Free |
| 5503.90.90 | Other: other | 4.3% |