Acetate tow Hs Code

Acetate tow harmonized system code

Product Overview Acetate tow classified under HS Code 550210 refers to the raw fiber form of cellulose acetate, typically derived from purified cotton linters or wood pulp, and processed into continuous filament bundles. This product is characterized by its uniform filament diameter, tensile strength, and controlled moisture content, ensuring consistent quality for downstream processing. The tow is generally supplied in standardized counts and cut lengths, with low impurity levels and specific acetylation degrees to meet industry specifications. Under HS Code 550210, acetate tow is categorized primarily by its chemical composition and physical form, distinguishing it from other cellulose derivatives. It serves as a critical intermediate material in various commercial applications, including the manufacture of cigarette filters, textile fibers, and high-grade upholstery padding. Its properties—such as biodegradability, resistance to moisture, and ease of dyeing—position acetate tow as a versatile raw input in both food service packaging and industrial processing sectors. The product’s consistent quality and compliance with international fiber standards offer importers and exporters a reliable commodity within the global supply chain. HS Code Classification & Trade Specifications The full 6-digit HS Code for acetate tow is 550210, where ‘55’ designates Chapter 55 covering synthetic and artificial filament tow; ‘02’ specifies cellulose acetate tow; and ‘10’ identifies the subheading for unprocessed or semi-processed tow forms. This classification is grounded in the product’s fibrous chemical nature and filamentous physical state, aligning with the Harmonized System’s taxonomy for natural and artificial filament tow. Trade considerations for acetate tow include packaging in moisture-resistant, breathable bales or cartons to maintain fiber integrity and prevent microbial contamination during transit. Preservation often involves controlled humidity environments and anti-static treatments to preserve filament quality. Shipping methods typically comply with international freight standards for textile raw materials, including containerization with desiccants when required. Quality standards adhere to ISO 139 and ASTM D2256 for tensile strength and fiber dimensions, ensuring conformity with WTO trade agreements and national customs regulations. This precise classification and documentation facilitate efficient customs clearance, accurate tariff application, and compliance with global trade protocols.

Acetate tow Chapter Note

1.- Headings 55.01 and 55.02 apply only to man-made filament tow, consisting of parallel filaments of a uniform length equal to the length of the tow, meeting the following specifications : (a) Length of tow exceeding 2 m; (b) Twist less than 5 turns per metre; (c) Measuring per filament less than 67 decitex; (d) Synthetic filament tow only : the tow must be drawn, that is to say, be incapable of being stretched by more than 100 % of its length; (e) Total measurement of tow more than 20,000 decitex. Tow of a length not exceeding 2 m is to be classified in heading 55.03 or 55.04.