Recycled Polyester Filament Tow

Filament tow produced from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) bottles, used for sustainable staple fiber in eco-textiles. Classified under HTS 5501.20.00.00 for its polyester composition in continuous tow form. Recycling does not alter the tariff classification based on material and form.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China7.5%+35.0%42.5%
🇲🇽Mexico7.5%+10.0%17.5%
🇨🇦Canada7.5%+10.0%17.5%
🇩🇪Germany7.5%+10.0%17.5%
🇯🇵Japan7.5%+10.0%17.5%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

5503.20.00Lower: 39.3% vs 42.5%

If cut into recycled staple fibers

Recycled polyester staple is still 5503, but post-tow stage.

5402.49Lower: 18% vs 42.5%

If rPET processed into continuous yarn

Other polyester continuous yarns from recycled sources remain in 5402.

5608.90Lower: 15% vs 42.5%

If formed into knotted netting from tow

Products like fishing nets from synthetic tow shift to 5608.

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

Include recycling certifications like GRS for polyester content verification

Pitfall: lack of rPET documentation may lead to standard polyester scrutiny

Declare post-consumer content accurately for green claims

Related Products under HTS 5501.20.00.00

Polyester Filament Tow for Staple Fiber Production

Uncrimped polyester filament tow consisting of continuous filaments of polyethylene terephthalate, used primarily for cutting into staple fibers for spinning into yarn. It falls under HTS 5501.20.00.00 as synthetic filament tow specifically of polyesters, prior to conversion into staple fibers. This product is essential for textile manufacturing processes.

High-Tenacity Polyester Tow for Industrial Yarns

High-tenacity polyester filament tow designed for conversion into staple fibers used in industrial applications like tire reinforcement and ropes. Classified under HTS 5501.20.00.00 due to its polyester composition and form as uncrimped continuous filament tow. It meets the chapter definition for synthetic filament tow before further processing.

Fine Denier Polyester Tow for Apparel Fibers

Polyester filament tow with fine denier per filament (2-5 dpf), intended for cutting into staple fibers for apparel fabrics like shirts and dresses. It is classified in HTS 5501.20.00.00 as polyester synthetic filament tow, an intermediate material in the yarn production chain. The uncrimped bundle form distinguishes it from yarns or fibers.

Polyester Top Tow for Worsted Spinning

Polyester filament tow processed into aligned 'top' form for worsted spinning systems, used in wool-like yarns for suiting. Falls under HTS 5501.20.00.00 as it remains synthetic polyester filament tow before full staple conversion. This semi-processed state is common in blend yarn production.

Coarse Denier Polyester Tow for Carpet Fibers

High denier polyester filament tow (15+ dpf) for cutting into staple fibers used in carpet backing and upholstery. It is under HTS 5501.20.00.00 as synthetic filament tow of polyesters, suited for bulkier textile applications. The form is uncrimped bundle of parallel filaments.

Bright Polyester Tow for Fillers

Bright (high luster) polyester filament tow used for stuffing pillows, quilts, and cushions after cutting and crimping. Falls under HTS 5501.20.00.00 as it's supplied in continuous filament tow form of polyesters. The brightness enhances aesthetic appeal in fill applications.