5407.51.00 - Unbleached or bleached

This HTS classification covers woven fabrics primarily composed of synthetic polyester filaments, specifically those manufactured from textured polyester yarns. The defining characteristic of this category is that the fabrics are either unbleached or have undergone a bleaching process, meaning they have not been dyed or printed with patterns. These fabrics represent a foundational stage in textile finishing, serving as raw materials for a wide array of downstream products.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial for accurate classification. Unlike fabrics classified under 5407.52, which are dyed, or 5407.53, which utilize yarns of different colors, the fabrics here are either in their natural, unbleached state or have been whitened. Furthermore, this category is distinct from 5407.54.00, which specifically covers printed fabrics. The absence of dyeing, yarn color variation, or printing is the primary differentiator.

Within this broad classification, further distinctions are made based on the fabric's weight per square meter. Subcategories exist to differentiate between fabrics weighing not more than 170 g/m² and those exceeding this weight threshold. This distinction is often relevant for determining suitability for specific end-uses and can impact tariff rates.