Import duty on sewing thread in the UK

HS code

5401.10

UK codes

5

UK import duty

4%

UK VAT

20%

Source: UK Global Tariff (HMRC Trade Tariff service) · checked 2026-10-31

Sewing thread of synthetic filaments is 5401.10.

UK commodity codes under 5401.10

UK commodity codeDescriptionImport dutyVAT
5401 10 12 00Not put up for retail sale › Core yarn › Polyester filament surrounded by cotton fibres4%20%
5401 10 14Not put up for retail sale › Core yarn › Other
2 full 10-digit codes
  • 5401 10 14 10 — Not put up for retail sale › Core yarn › Other › Core yarn of high tenacity polyester filament surrounded by polyester staple fibres:<br>-with a twist of 410 tpm or more but not more than 1200 tpm,<br>-with a linear density of 200 dtex or more but not more than 1500 dtex,<br>-with an average tenacity of 46 cn/tex or more,<br>-with an elongation at break of 13 % or more but not more than 23 %,<br>-wound on a perforated dyeing tube,<br>-with a weight, including tube, of 900 g or more<br>
  • 5401 10 14 90 — Not put up for retail sale › Core yarn › Other › Other
4%20%
5401 10 16 00Not put up for retail sale › Other › Textured yarn4%20%
5401 10 18 00Not put up for retail sale › Other › Other4%20%
5401 10 90 00Put up for retail sale4%20%

Import duty on sewing thread by country

Import into the US

11.4%

See HTS codes ›

Import into the UK

4%

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Import into the EU

4% – 5%

See CN codes ›

How UK import charges work

The duty shown is the standard rate for goods from countries without a trade deal. Goods from a country with a UK trade agreement may pay less, or nothing, if they meet the rules of origin. A few products from certain countries also pay anti-dumping duties. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.

What will sewing thread really cost you?

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Related products and their UK import duty.

HS 5208.52

Printed cotton fabric

UK duty: 8%

HS 5511.10

Acrylic yarn

UK duty: 0%

HS 9606.21

Plastic buttons

UK duty: 0%

HS 1804.00

Cocoa butter

UK duty: 6%

HS 9607.19

Zippers

UK duty: 0%

HS 1515.90

Shea butter

UK duty: 0% – 12%

Frequently asked questions

Q1What is the UK commodity code for sewing thread?
It depends on the product’s details: 5 UK codes sit under HS 5401.10. The table on this page lists each one with its duty.
Q2What is the import duty on sewing thread in the UK?
Between 4%, depending on the exact code. Goods from countries with a trade agreement may pay less if they meet the rules of origin.
Q3Do I pay VAT on imported sewing thread?
Yes. Import VAT of 20% applies on top of duty. The UK charges import VAT on the customs value plus shipping, insurance and duty.
Q4Is the UK code the same as the US HTS code?
Only the first 6 digits (5401.10) are the same. The US adds its own digits and rates: see the US HTS code for sewing thread.

Find another product’s UK duty

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New to customs terms? Read what an HS code is and our guide on how to calculate landed cost.

Classification guidance only, not a binding ruling or customs advice. The right code depends on your product’s exact material, function and construction. For certainty, get an Advance Tariff Ruling from HMRC, or ask a licensed customs broker.