Importing Textiles In 2024: The Complete Guide
According to a report published by UKFT and Oxford Economics, the UK textile industry contributed £62 billion to the economy in 2023. It contributed to 1.3 million jobs and equated to £1 in every £34 of the UK’s total gross value-added contribution.
Most people, when they hear the word ‘textiles’, may think of fast fashion or designer clothing. However, textiles can be many different things. From tea cosies to make-up cases, flags to book covers, the importation of textiles is just one part of a worldwide supply chain.
Before diving in head-first, those looking to import textiles should conduct research on the documents, fees and regulations required by HMRC. To make the process easier, you can consult Freight Broker’s 2024 guide to importing textiles.
Most people, when they hear the word ‘textiles’, may think of fast fashion or designer clothing. However, textiles can be many different things. From tea cosies to make-up cases, flags to book covers, the importation of textiles is just one part of a worldwide supply chain.
Before diving in head-first, those looking to import textiles should conduct research on the documents, fees and regulations required by HMRC. To make the process easier, you can consult Freight Broker’s 2024 guide to importing textiles.
What tariffs/import duties apply to imported textiles?
The applicable tariffs and import duties for your imported textiles will vary based on several factors (e.g., the type of textile product, its country of origin, and existing trade agreements).
The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) serves as the default tariff system for goods imported into the UK (unless a specific trade agreement is in place).
The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) applies to most imported goods, including textiles, from countries without a free trade agreement with the UK. Under the UKGT, import duties for textile products vary based on the specific type of textile:
However, certain textile products benefit from zero tariffs if the UK has minimal or no domestic production of those goods. For example, silk yarns and terry towelling fabrics currently have a 0% import duty.
Some textile products are subject to Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQs), which is a two-tiered tariff system that allows a specific quantity to be imported at a reduced or zero tariff rate.
TRQs are generally used to protect domestic production by restricting imports. They are typically tied to the product type and the exporting country.
Textile products are defined as any product that is made of textile fibres, whether raw, semi-worked, semi-manufactured, manufactured, semi-made-up, or made-up.
Textiles imported from countries with which the UK has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) can have significantly lower tariffs.
For example, some textile imports from the EU benefit from a 0% preferential duty rate for most textiles, provided they meet specific rules of origin requirements outlined in the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
However, as outlined by the House of Commons, preferential rates may be harder to obtain in certain sectors, like the textile and clothing industry. It’s noted that, between January to August 2022, only about half of UK exports to the EU traded using zero tariff.
The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) serves as the default tariff system for goods imported into the UK (unless a specific trade agreement is in place).
The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) System
The UK Global Tariff (UKGT) applies to most imported goods, including textiles, from countries without a free trade agreement with the UK. Under the UKGT, import duties for textile products vary based on the specific type of textile:
- Fashion goods generally attract a 12% duty rate.
- Fabrics usually incur an 8% duty.
- Yarns have a lower duty rate of around 4%.
However, certain textile products benefit from zero tariffs if the UK has minimal or no domestic production of those goods. For example, silk yarns and terry towelling fabrics currently have a 0% import duty.
Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQs)
Some textile products are subject to Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQs), which is a two-tiered tariff system that allows a specific quantity to be imported at a reduced or zero tariff rate.
Application
TRQs are generally used to protect domestic production by restricting imports. They are typically tied to the product type and the exporting country.
Textile products
Textile products are defined as any product that is made of textile fibres, whether raw, semi-worked, semi-manufactured, manufactured, semi-made-up, or made-up.
Impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
Textiles imported from countries with which the UK has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) can have significantly lower tariffs.
For example, some textile imports from the EU benefit from a 0% preferential duty rate for most textiles, provided they meet specific rules of origin requirements outlined in the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
However, as outlined by the House of Commons, preferential rates may be harder to obtain in certain sectors, like the textile and clothing industry. It’s noted that, between January to August 2022, only about half of UK exports to the EU traded using zero tariff.
What is the VAT rate charged on imported textiles?
For most textile products imported into the UK, the standard VAT rate of 20% applies: this is the same rate that applies to most imported goods, regardless of whether they come from EU or non-EU countries.
While the standard rate of 20% applies to most textile imports, some specific categories may qualify for a reduced VAT rate of 5% or even 0%. However, these reduced rates are usually reserved for specific types of goods, such as children's car seats and medical supplies.
Textiles generally don’t fall under these reduced categories unless they are explicitly classified under a special exemption category.
While the standard rate of 20% applies to most textile imports, some specific categories may qualify for a reduced VAT rate of 5% or even 0%. However, these reduced rates are usually reserved for specific types of goods, such as children's car seats and medical supplies.
Textiles generally don’t fall under these reduced categories unless they are explicitly classified under a special exemption category.
What documents do you need for importing textiles into the UK?
To avoid delays, additional costs, or potential legal issues, importers must submit all relevant documentations to HMRC:
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| EORI number | An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number is mandatory for all businesses importing goods into the UK. It is used to identify the importer for customs procedures. Without an EORI number, you cannot clear goods through UK customs. |
| Commercial invoice | A detailed document provided by the exporter to the importer outlining the sale transaction. It includes information about the seller and buyer, the description of goods, quantity, value, and the terms of sale. |
| Customs declaration form | An official document that must be submitted to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). It includes detailed information about the imported goods, such as value, weight, and nature, which determines the amount of duty and VAT payable. |
| Certificate of Origin | A document certifying the country of origin of the imported goods. It is often required to qualify for preferential duty rates under free trade agreements and is used to confirm compliance with the rules of origin. |
| Bill of Lading | A legal document issued by a carrier to the shipper, detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being shipped. It serves as a receipt for the shipped products and a contract between the carrier and the shipper. |
| Packing list | A detailed list of the contents in each package or shipment. It includes information such as the dimensions, weight, and packaging type. |
| CE Certificate | The CE Certificate or Marking demonstrates that a product has been assessed and meets EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. |
| Commodity codes | A numerical code used in the UK to classify goods for import and export. These codes are essential to determine the correct tariff rates and to complete customs declarations accurately. |
What are the commodity codes for imported textiles?
Commodity codes in the UK follow a 10-digit format for imports.
These codes are part of the global Harmonized System (HS), where the first 6 digits represent the standard international HS code, and the additional digits provide further detail specific to the UK or EU regulations.
To determine the exact 10-digit commodity code for each specific product, importers should use the UK Trade Tariff tool. Classifying textiles correctly means you can avoid potential delays or fines during importation.
Below, you can find all relevant codes from Section 11, ‘Textiles and Textile products’, as outlined in the UK Trade Tariff.
These codes are part of the global Harmonized System (HS), where the first 6 digits represent the standard international HS code, and the additional digits provide further detail specific to the UK or EU regulations.
To determine the exact 10-digit commodity code for each specific product, importers should use the UK Trade Tariff tool. Classifying textiles correctly means you can avoid potential delays or fines during importation.
Below, you can find all relevant codes from Section 11, ‘Textiles and Textile products’, as outlined in the UK Trade Tariff.
| Code 50-63 | Description |
|---|---|
| 50 | Silk |
| 51 | Wool, fine or coarse animal hair; Horsehair yarn and woven fabric |
| 52 | Cotton |
| 53 | Other vegetable textile fibres; Paper yarn and woven fabrics of paper yarn. |
| 54 | Man-made filaments; Strip and the like of man-made textile materials |
| 55 | Man-made staple fibres |
| 56 | Wadding, felt and nonwovens; Special yarns; Twine, cordage, ropes, and cables and articles thereof |
| 57 | Carpets and other textile floor coverings |
| 58 | Special woven fabrics; Tufted textile fabrics; Lace; Tapestries; Trimmings; Embroidery |
| 59 | Impregnated, coated, covered or laminated textile fabrics; Textile articles suitable for industrial use |
| 60 | Knitted or crocheted fabrics |
| 61 | Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted |
| 62 | Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, not knitted or crocheted |
| 63 | Other made-up textile articles; Sets; Worn clothing and worn textile articles; Rags |
Why are the labelling restrictions for textile products?
Stringent labelling restrictions for textiles are a result of the Textile Products (Labelling and Fibre Composition) Regulations, established in 2012.
These regulations were imposed to make sure consumers receive accurate information about the textile products they purchase. They’re also designed to maintain high standards of consumer protection and transparency in the textiles market.
As defined in The Textile Products (Indications of Fibre Content) Regulations 1986, ‘textile products’ means:
The regulations cover all textile products that are made available for sale within the UK, including clothing, mattresses, home textiles, and accessories that consist of at least 80% textile fibres by weight.
There are some exemptions under these regulations. For example, certain items listed in Annex V of the EU Regulation may not require labelling. Below are several examples:
The regulations require that all textile products must clearly display their fibre composition. The label must provide the exact percentage of each fibre present in the product, as outlined by Annex I in Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011.
Examples include:
Textile products made entirely of one fibre must be labelled as "100%", "pure", or "all" (e.g., "100% Cotton"). Doing this makes consumers aware that the product is made exclusively from that particular fibre, without any mixture or blend.
For multi-fibre products, the label must indicate the percentage of each fibre in descending order by weight (e.g., "60% Cotton, 40% Polyester"). The consumer can then understand the composition of the product and make informed choices based on the material's properties.
If a textile product includes any components of animal origin, such as leather patches or fur trims, the label must explicitly state "Contains non-textile parts of animal origin."
Making this requirement clear helps consumers who wish to avoid such products due to ethical, religious, or allergy-related reasons.
Labels must be securely attached to the product or its packaging (they may be sewn into clothing or attached as tags that remain affixed throughout the product’s lifecycle). Labels should be easily visible and readable at the point of sale.
They must provide the consumer with clear, unambiguous information.
Size and care instructions are not mandatory under the EU Regulation. However, importers can use the voluntary, flexible sizing system (BS EN 13402) as part of their labelling information.
They can also use the voluntary BS EN ISO 3758 standard for care labels, which uses symbols to indicate washing, drying, ironing, and professional care instructions.
When products are marketed in the UK, all labels must be in English. Multilingual labels may be used if a product is being sold in multiple markets, but the English language must always be present.
These regulations were imposed to make sure consumers receive accurate information about the textile products they purchase. They’re also designed to maintain high standards of consumer protection and transparency in the textiles market.
Product scope
As defined in The Textile Products (Indications of Fibre Content) Regulations 1986, ‘textile products’ means:
‘raw, semi-worked, worked, semi-manufactured, manufactured, semi-made-up or made-up products which are exclusively composed of textile fibres, regardless of the mixing or assembly process employed;’
The regulations cover all textile products that are made available for sale within the UK, including clothing, mattresses, home textiles, and accessories that consist of at least 80% textile fibres by weight.
Are there any exemptions?
There are some exemptions under these regulations. For example, certain items listed in Annex V of the EU Regulation may not require labelling. Below are several examples:
- Pin cushions
- Purses, pouches, cases, bags and saddlery of textile materials
- Painted canvas
- Watch straps of textile materials
- Tobacco pouches of textile fabric
- Shoe-cleaning cases
- Oven gloves and cloths
- Egg cosies
Fibre composition
The regulations require that all textile products must clearly display their fibre composition. The label must provide the exact percentage of each fibre present in the product, as outlined by Annex I in Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011.
Examples include:
- Wool
- Animal/horsehair
- Silk
- Nylon
- Polyester
Products made of one textile fibre
Textile products made entirely of one fibre must be labelled as "100%", "pure", or "all" (e.g., "100% Cotton"). Doing this makes consumers aware that the product is made exclusively from that particular fibre, without any mixture or blend.
Multi-fibre textile products
For multi-fibre products, the label must indicate the percentage of each fibre in descending order by weight (e.g., "60% Cotton, 40% Polyester"). The consumer can then understand the composition of the product and make informed choices based on the material's properties.
Non-textile part of animal origin
If a textile product includes any components of animal origin, such as leather patches or fur trims, the label must explicitly state "Contains non-textile parts of animal origin."
Making this requirement clear helps consumers who wish to avoid such products due to ethical, religious, or allergy-related reasons.
Placement
Labels must be securely attached to the product or its packaging (they may be sewn into clothing or attached as tags that remain affixed throughout the product’s lifecycle). Labels should be easily visible and readable at the point of sale.
They must provide the consumer with clear, unambiguous information.
Size and care instructions
Size and care instructions are not mandatory under the EU Regulation. However, importers can use the voluntary, flexible sizing system (BS EN 13402) as part of their labelling information.
They can also use the voluntary BS EN ISO 3758 standard for care labels, which uses symbols to indicate washing, drying, ironing, and professional care instructions.
Language
When products are marketed in the UK, all labels must be in English. Multilingual labels may be used if a product is being sold in multiple markets, but the English language must always be present.
What are the ethical/environmental considerations with textile importation?
Any importer must consider the ethical and environmental impacts of their trade practices.
The textile industry, particularly, has faced heavy criticism from environmentalists. Research conducted by the European Parliament found that textile production is responsible for around 20% of water pollution from dyeing and finishing products.
The ‘fast fashion’ industry, which is often imported via air and sea freight, is also reportedly responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions. Given these worrying statistics, it’s important to learn more about sustainable sourcing, labour rights, and UK regulations.
In the textile industry, sustainable sourcing is the only way to mitigate the long-term impact of fast fashion.
UK REACH Regulations: The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation focuses on controlling the use of hazardous chemicals in textile production.
It mandates that chemicals used in textiles, such as dyes and finishing agents, must be registered and proven safe for human health and the environment.
Net Zero 2050 commitments: The UK is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
However, a report conducted by the UK government in April 2024 found that the textile industry contributes more to greenhouse gas emissions than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
As such, the government has introduced a voluntary business program that aims to reduce the carbon and water footprints of new products. Signatories to the program include businesses that represent over 62% of clothing sold in the UK.
The program's targets include:
The UK government has implemented several regulations to ensure fair working conditions and human rights throughout the supply chain.
Modern Slavery Act 2015: The UK’s Modern Slavery Act requires businesses to publish annual statements on the steps they have taken to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within their supply chains.
Textile importers must make sure their suppliers adhere to ethical labour practices, providing safe working conditions, fair wages, and respect for workers' rights.
Non-financial reporting requirements: Under the Companies Act 2006, large UK companies are also required to disclose non-financial information in their strategic reports. The information includes reports on:
The textile industry, particularly, has faced heavy criticism from environmentalists. Research conducted by the European Parliament found that textile production is responsible for around 20% of water pollution from dyeing and finishing products.
The ‘fast fashion’ industry, which is often imported via air and sea freight, is also reportedly responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions. Given these worrying statistics, it’s important to learn more about sustainable sourcing, labour rights, and UK regulations.
Impact of sustainable sourcing
In the textile industry, sustainable sourcing is the only way to mitigate the long-term impact of fast fashion.
UK REACH Regulations: The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation focuses on controlling the use of hazardous chemicals in textile production.
It mandates that chemicals used in textiles, such as dyes and finishing agents, must be registered and proven safe for human health and the environment.
Net Zero 2050 commitments: The UK is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
However, a report conducted by the UK government in April 2024 found that the textile industry contributes more to greenhouse gas emissions than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
As such, the government has introduced a voluntary business program that aims to reduce the carbon and water footprints of new products. Signatories to the program include businesses that represent over 62% of clothing sold in the UK.
The program's targets include:
- A 50% reduction in carbon footprint by 2030
- A 30% reduction in water footprint by 2030
- Design for circularity, including improved fibres, recyclability, and longevity
Labour and ethical considerations
The UK government has implemented several regulations to ensure fair working conditions and human rights throughout the supply chain.
Modern Slavery Act 2015: The UK’s Modern Slavery Act requires businesses to publish annual statements on the steps they have taken to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking within their supply chains.
Textile importers must make sure their suppliers adhere to ethical labour practices, providing safe working conditions, fair wages, and respect for workers' rights.
Non-financial reporting requirements: Under the Companies Act 2006, large UK companies are also required to disclose non-financial information in their strategic reports. The information includes reports on:
- Environmental matters (including the impact of the company’s business on the
environment), - The company’s employees
- Social matters,
- Respect for human rights, and
- Anti-corruption and anti-bribery matters
Compare Freight Courier services with Freight Broker!
Importers bringing textiles into the UK have many responsibilities. From completing and submitting all relevant documents to navigating customs, managing your imports requires an in-depth understanding of UK regulations.
Another element of importation that necessitates careful consideration is freight courier rates. Securing the best deal will make sure you’re not overpaying for your shipments. So, why not compare freight courier rates with Freight Broker?
With our quick, easy-to-use comparison service, you can access competitive rates from multiple freight couriers. Contact us today to start saving money on your shipments.
Another element of importation that necessitates careful consideration is freight courier rates. Securing the best deal will make sure you’re not overpaying for your shipments. So, why not compare freight courier rates with Freight Broker?
With our quick, easy-to-use comparison service, you can access competitive rates from multiple freight couriers. Contact us today to start saving money on your shipments.
FAQs
What are the main documents required to import textiles into the UK?
The main documents required for textile imports include evidence of EORI registration, commercial invoice, customs declaration form, certificate of origin, packing list, import licences/certificates, and product labelling compliance documents.
How can I benefit from free trade agreements when importing textiles?
Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can ease customs procedures for importers and significantly reduce tariffs. However, to benefit from these agreements, importers must understand the rules of origin.
To qualify for preferential tariff rates, the textiles must meet specific rules of origin requirements (which prove that the goods originate from a country with a trade agreement with the UK).
The rules may specify a minimum percentage of local content or the specific production process that must occur in the originating country.
To qualify for preferential tariff rates, the textiles must meet specific rules of origin requirements (which prove that the goods originate from a country with a trade agreement with the UK).
The rules may specify a minimum percentage of local content or the specific production process that must occur in the originating country.
What are the common compliance challenges for textile importers?
Importers may face several challenges when importing textiles.
Under the UK REACH regulations, textiles containing certain chemicals, dyes, flame retardants, or phthalates must comply with strict limits. Compliance with the Textile Products (Labelling and Fibre Composition) Regulations 2012 can be equally challenging.
Proper labelling must include fibre composition, care instructions, and warnings about non-textile parts of animal origin. Mislabelled products can result in fines, product recalls, or being barred from entry into the UK.
For newer importers, navigating customs declarations, the correct commodity codes, and any applicable tariffs can be complex. Errors can lead to delays or fines.
Under the UK REACH regulations, textiles containing certain chemicals, dyes, flame retardants, or phthalates must comply with strict limits. Compliance with the Textile Products (Labelling and Fibre Composition) Regulations 2012 can be equally challenging.
Proper labelling must include fibre composition, care instructions, and warnings about non-textile parts of animal origin. Mislabelled products can result in fines, product recalls, or being barred from entry into the UK.
For newer importers, navigating customs declarations, the correct commodity codes, and any applicable tariffs can be complex. Errors can lead to delays or fines.
How do the new UK import regulations affect EU suppliers?
Post-Brexit, importing textiles from EU countries to the UK is subject to new rules that affect EU suppliers.
Goods imported from the EU now require customs declarations and are subject to customs checks; this increased administrative burden may be time-consuming for EU importers.
Goods imported from the EU now require customs declarations and are subject to customs checks; this increased administrative burden may be time-consuming for EU importers.