5506.30.00.00 - Acrylic or modacrylic

This HTS category, 5506.30.00.00, specifically covers acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers that have been carded, combed, or otherwise processed for spinning. These fibers are characterized by their synthetic nature, often mimicking the feel and appearance of natural fibers like wool or cotton. Acrylic fibers are known for their warmth, softness, and resistance to shrinking and wrinkles, while modacrylic fibers offer enhanced flame resistance and durability. The processing methods mentioned – carding and combing – prepare these staple fibers for yarn production, aligning them into parallel strands ready for spinning into thread.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its siblings. HTS codes 5506.10, 5506.20, and 5506.40 are reserved for staple fibers of nylon or other polyamides, polyesters, and polypropylene, respectively. Therefore, the defining characteristic of 5506.30.00.00 is the specific polymer composition: acrylic or modacrylic. The "Other" category (5506.90.01.00) would encompass staple fibers that do not fall under nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or modacrylic.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Classification at this level relies entirely on the precise identification of the material as either acrylic or modacrylic, processed in a manner suitable for spinning. This means that any acrylic or modacrylic staple fibers, regardless of color or specific processing technique (as long as it's for spinning), will fall under this heading, provided they meet the general requirements of Chapter 55.