Modal Staple Fiber Woven Fabric (For Garments)
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π Modal Staple Fiber Woven Fabric (For Garments)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Breakdown | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Is "Modal Fabric"?
Modal is a type of rayon (regenerated cellulose fiber) made from beech tree pulp. Unlike filament yarns (continuous threads), this product is made from staple fibers (short fibers similar to cotton), which are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric.
In international trade, it is crucial to distinguish between: 1. Filament Fabrics (Yarn Dyed or Printed): Continuous strands β Usually fall under 5407 or 5512/5513 depending on blend. 2. Staple Fiber Fabrics: Short fibers spun like cotton β Falls under Chapter 55 (Artificial Staple Fibers).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the fabric is made from Modal Filament (continuous, smooth, silk-like feel without spinning) β Go to 5407.72 or 5512.
- If the fabric is made from Modal Staple Fiber (spun, cotton-like feel, matte finish) β Go to 5513 or 5514.
- This guide assumes "Staple Fiber" as per your input.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
Since "Modal Staple Fiber" is classified as Other Artificial Staple Fibers (not viscose staple fibers which have specific codes), we look at Heading 5514 or 5513 depending on the blend. However, pure Modal is often grouped with Artificial Staple Fibers under 5515 or 5516 if blended.
Note: In many customs databases (like US HTSUS), pure Modal Staple is rare; it is often blended with Cotton or Polyester. Below are the most common scenarios for 100% or Majority Modal Staple Woven Fabric.
| HS Code | Product Description | Application | Fiber Content | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5515.21.00.00 |
Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibers, containing <85% synthetic staple fibers, mixed mainly or solely with artificial staple fibers | Pure Modal/Viscose blends | 100% Artificial (Modal) | Soft, breathable, drapes well |
5515.99.00.00 |
Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibers, other | Blended Modal with other synthetics | <85% Synthetics | Mixed properties |
5208.xx.xx |
If blended >85% with Cotton | Cotton-Modal blends | >85% Cotton | Treated as Cotton fabric |
5513.xx.xx |
If mixed mainly with Synthetic (e.g., Polyester) | Poly-Modal blends | <85% Cotton, <85% Modal | Durable, wrinkle-resistant |
π Focus: For 100% Modal Staple Woven Fabric, the most accurate classification is typically
5515.21.00.00(Woven fabrics of synthetic staple fibers, mixed mainly or solely with artificial staple fibers).
Note: Some countries may classify pure Modal under5516if considered "Man-made Fiber Staple Fibers" generally, but5515is standard for "Other Artificial Staple Fibers" in HTSUS.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (Including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 5515.21.00.00 ββ Woven Fabrics of Artificial Staple Fibers (Modal)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax (Section 301) | +7.5% (Standard for many textiles/artificial fibers from China) |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% (On China/HK products, from Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Rate | 24.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 24.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Textiles/Fabrics are generally excluded from $800 de minimis if duties apply) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:5515.21.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- "Base Rate 6.5%" is the standard MFN rate for artificial staple fiber woven fabrics.
- "Section 301 Surtax 7.5%" applies to many textile-related categories from China.
- "IEEPA 10%" is the new additional tariff for Chinese-origin goods.
- Total 24% is significant for low-margin textile imports.
π― 2. If Blended with Cotton (>85%) β 5208.xx.xx (Cotton Woven Fabric)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 6.5% - 16% (depending on weight/weave) |
| USITC Surtax | +7.5% (Common for cotton textiles) |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 24.0% - 33.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
π Note:
- If the fabric is Cotton-Modal blend with >85% Cotton, it is treated as Cotton Fabric.
- Cotton textiles from China often face higher Section 301 tariffs (up to 25% in some cases), so verify the exact subheading.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must state: "Modal Staple Fiber Woven Fabric", not just "Fabric". |
| β Fiber Composition Report | βοΈ | Must explicitly state % Modal, % Cotton, % Polyester. Crucial for HS Code determination. |
| β Fabric Weight (GSM) | βοΈ | Grams per Square Meter. Affects classification in some subheadings. |
| β Weave Structure | βοΈ | Plain, Twill, Satin? Used for additional identification. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clear description: "Woven Fabric, 100% Modal Staple Fiber, for Garment Manufacturing". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Roll weight, dimensions. |
| β Bill of Lading/Air Waybill | βοΈ | Consistent with invoice. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βFiber Content Dictates Code, Staple vs. Filament Changes Everything!β
| Situation | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Modal Staple | HS 5515.21.00.00 + "Artificial Staple Fiber" |
Mislabeling as "Silk-like Fabric" β May be misclassified as Filament (5407) β 25% penalty risk |
| Modal-Cotton Blend | Specify >% Cotton β HS 5208 |
Hiding cotton content β Customs reclassification β Delay + Back Taxes |
| Rolled Fabric | Declare by Weight (lbs/kg) | Declaring by "Pieces" without weight info β Valuation issues |
| Sample Rolls | Clearly mark "Not for Resale" | If mislabeled, may face duty evasion suspicion |
β 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Modal vs. Viscose | Both are artificial staple fibers. Modal is a type of Viscose. Customs often group them under Artificial Staple Fibers (5515). Do not declare as "Wood Pulp" directly. |
| Dyed vs. Undyed | If dyed, add "Dyed" in description. If printed, add "Printed". This affects the subheading within 5515. |
| OEM/White Label | Provide supplierβs fiber test report. Customs may request a fiber analysis if suspicious. |
| De Minimis (Section 321) | β Do NOT use $800 de minimis for fabric imports if duties >0%. Textiles are heavily monitored. Use Formal Entry (CBP Form 7501). |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Duty Rate (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ US | 5515.21.00.00 |
~24% (Base + 301 + IEEPA) | None specific (but fiber test recommended) | High tariffs, strict fiber labeling |
| π¨π³ China | 5515.21.00.00 |
8% | None | Lower duty, easy entry |
| πͺπΊ EU | 5515.21.00.00 |
6.5% | REACH Compliance | No Section 301 equivalent, but strict chemical regs |
| π¬π§ UK | 5515.21.00.00 |
6.5% | UK CA Mark (if garments) | Post-Brexit, similar to EU but separate |
| π―π΅ Japan | 5515.21.00.00 |
6.2% | FSC/JIS (optional for quality) | Low duty, high quality standards |
π Conclusion:
- US Market has the highest tariff burden (24%) due to IEEPA + Section 301.
- EU/UK/Japan are more tariff-friendly (~6-7%) but have strict chemical regulations (REACH in EU, FSC in Japan).
- China Domestic has low duty (8%) but is irrelevant for export.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring as "Cotton Fabric" because Modal feels like cotton
π Consequence: Misclassification β HS Code 5208 vs 5515 β Penalties + Back Duties.
β Error 2: Ignoring "Staple" vs "Filament"
π Consequence: Modal Filament (5407) has different duties (often higher surtaxes). If you declare Filament but send Staple, customs may reject the shipment.
β Error 3: Using De Minimis for Fabric Imports
π Consequence: Shipment held at border. Textiles are exempt from $800 de minimis if duties apply. Must file formal entry.
β Error 4: Missing Fiber Composition on Invoice
π Consequence: CBP will assign the highest possible duty rate (often "Other Textiles" β 30%+) until you provide proof.
β Correct Practice:
"Woven Fabric, 100% Modal Staple Fiber, Dyed, 150 GSM, Plain Weave, For Garment Manufacturing. Origin: China. HTS: 5515.21.00.00."
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember Mantra:
πΉ "Staple or Filament? Thatβs the key!"
πΉ "100% Modal = 5515.21, Not 5407!"
πΉ "US Tariffs = 24%, Plan accordingly!"
π Tips:
- If your Modal fabric is blended with >85% Cotton, it becomes Cotton Fabric (5208), which may have different tariff rates (check if cotton surtax applies).
- For EU imports, ensure REACH Compliance certificates are ready; modal production may involve chemicals subject to EU restrictions.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify Fiber Content with your supplier (Lab Test Report).
π Declare Accurately as "Modal Staple Fiber Woven Fabric".
πΌ Calculate Landed Cost including 24% US duties + freight + insurance.
β¨ Professional Clearance, Start with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every percent of duty saved is pure profit!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.