HS Code 5401
Man-Made Sewing Thread
HS code 5401 is for sewing thread made of man-made filaments, used in garment manufacturing and household repairs, available for retail or bulk industrial use.
4-digit Section XILCL
HS Code 5401 — Man-Made Sewing Thread
This code covers sewing thread made from synthetic or artificial filaments. It includes thread processed for retail sale (small spools) or industrial use (large bobbins), designed specifically for sewing machines or hand sewing.
What's included
- Polyester sewing thread
- Nylon sewing thread
- Viscose rayon sewing thread
- Retail-ready spools
What's excluded
- Cotton sewing thread → use
5204(Sewing thread made of cotton is classified in chapter 52.) - Embroidery floss → use
5402(If not prepared specifically as 'sewing thread', it may fall under general filament yarn.)
Common examples
- Gutermann polyester thread spools
- Industrial nylon bonded thread
- All-purpose synthetic sewing thread
- High-tenacity polyester thread
Frequently asked questions
What defines thread as 'sewing thread'?
It must be dressed (finished) and have a final 'Z' twist to be used in a sewing machine.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 5% - 12%
- Documentation: Must specify filament type (synthetic vs artificial) on customs documents.
- Typical shipping mode: LCL
- Top exporters: China, Germany, Turkey
- Top importers: USA, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Standard classification for both domestic and industrial synthetic sewing materials.
Related HS codes
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