HS Code for Combed Cotton Yarn
The HS Code for combed cotton yarn is 520512. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 7.5%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 520512 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 7.5% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 4% |
| Chapter | 52 |
| Heading | 5205 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Single cotton yarn, 714.29 dtex or more, combed
HS Code 520512 covers combed cotton yarn, single, measuring 714.29 dtex or more, with a US MFN duty rate of 7.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the combing process for cotton yarn affect its classification under HTS 520512?
The combing process is a key classification criterion for this heading, as HTS 520512 specifically applies to *combed* cotton yarn, not carded. Combing removes shorter fibers and impurities, resulting in a smoother, stronger, and higher-quality yarn. This distinguishes it from yarns in other headings, such as 520511 for carded cotton yarn of the same metric count.
For HTS 520512 combed cotton yarn, what specific customs inspection risks are associated with its weight-based classification?
The primary risk is a customs finding that the yarn's linear density is actually below the 714.29 decitex threshold, which would force a reclassification to a different, often higher-duty, subheading. Inspectors may verify the yarn count through laboratory testing, and discrepancies from the commercial invoice can lead to penalties, duty reassessment, and shipment delays. Ensure your supplier's test report (e.g., ASTM D1059) explicitly confirms the yarn meets or exceeds the minimum decitex requirement.
What additional costs, beyond the tariff, should importers of combed cotton yarn (HTS 520512) expect to pay?
Importers of this heavy-weight combed cotton yarn will typically incur a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) of 0.3464% of the entered value, with a minimum of $31.67 and a maximum of $634.62 per entry. Additionally, if the yarn enters under a visa arrangement (like for products from certain countries), there will be a separate visa or electronic visa filing fee levied per shipment.
Material Variants in Combed Cotton Yarn (5205.12)
Classification under 5205.12 requires the yarn to be composed of at least 85% cotton by weight and be combed. If the cotton content is less than 85%, the yarn moves to other headings, such as 5205.4X for mixed cotton yarns or Chapter 55 for man-made fiber blends. Yarn containing elastomeric material (e.g., spandex) is generally classified elsewhere, typically in 5204 or 5402, depending on the dominant textile material. The combing process itself must be performed; uncombed or carded cotton yarn of the same weight falls under 5205.11.
Alternative & Commonly Confused HTS Codes for Combed Cotton Yarn
Combed cotton yarn is most precisely classified under heading 5205, but can be confused with yarns of different staple lengths or preparation methods. Key alternatives include 520511 (single yarn, carded, not combed) and 520522 (multiple/folded yarn, combed), where the distinction is the yarn structure. For yarns of shorter staple cotton (under 29.5 mm), check heading 5207. If the yarn is put up for retail sale (e.g., sewing thread or small skeins), it may fall under 5207.00.60 instead. Always verify both the staple length and whether the cotton is carded or combed to ensure proper classification.
Related HS Codes
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