Sourcing centrifuge filter bags from China
Centrifuge filter bags classified in the relevant technical textile lines carry 6% UK duty from China; the wider heading ranges from 0% to 6%. Confirm the finished bag's code and assess UK REACH obligations for its substances, finishes and coatings. Cambridge China Bridge sources centrifuge filter bags.
6% on the relevant bag and filter-cloth lines
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 30 September 2026, heading 5911 covers textile products and articles for technical uses. The table is a classification shortlist for finished centrifuge bags and their media. The listed polyester spunbond line describes specified raw media, rather than a general code for finished bags.
The selected lines carry 6% duty for goods from China. The supplied tariff facts show no anti-dumping or countervailing measures, suspensions or attached import controls on these lines. The wider heading includes duty-free polishing pads and suspensions for specified membrane parts, polishing pads and loudspeaker dampers; these descriptions do not cover ordinary centrifuge filter bags.
Confirm the commodity code with the bag drawing, fibre composition, woven or felt construction and centrifuge application. Check raw media against the complete tariff description separately from made-up bags. For wider filter-cloth sourcing, see filter press cloths.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping or countervailing duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Other technical textile articles; check applicability to finished woven bags | 5911 90 99 90 | 6% | None |
| Technical articles of felt; check applicability to finished felt bags | 5911 90 10 00 | 6% | None |
| Other filtering or straining cloth; possible media for bag manufacture | 5911 40 00 90 | 6% | None |
| Listed pleatable polyester spunbond media; only if the full description matches | 5911 40 00 10 | 6% | None |
Specify the basket fit and separation duty
Send a drawing showing basket diameter and depth, bag profile, mouth attachment, base shape, seams and any discharge opening. Describe how the bag is installed, secured and removed. Specify fibre, weave or felt construction, fabric mass, finish and permeability at an agreed test pressure. Include the slurry, operating temperature, cleaning chemicals and cake-removal method.
Agree a filtration trial using representative process material, with acceptance criteria for solids retention, drainage and cake release. Ask for a UK REACH statement covering fibres, finishes and coatings, and assess the applicable obligations for substances in the bag. For food-processing use, treat the bag as a food contact material and request compliance evidence covering the actual materials and intended contact conditions.
Worked duty example
Illustrative example, not a quote: Illustrative batch of replacement woven centrifuge filter bags for a small processor under 5911 90 99 90, invoiced at £14,000 free on board, with £1,200 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £15,200. Duty at 6% is £912. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £16,112, so it is £3,222.40. Import taxes total £4,134.40; a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim the VAT, so the lasting cost is the £912 of duty. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.
Inspection checklist
Fit: measure the mouth, body, base and discharge opening against the drawing; trial-fit an approved sample in the intended basket and check the attachment.
Seams: check stitch continuity, seam position, reinforcement and loose threads; compare closures and attachment details with the signed sample.
Media: verify fibre identity, fabric mass and permeability using the agreed method; compare filtration trial results with the ordered grade.
Arrival: check for damp packing, embedded debris, abrasion and mixed bag sizes; match batch labels to inspection records and retain a labelled sample.
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What goes wrong
A bag may match the basket diameter but sit incorrectly at the base or fail to seal at the mouth. Poor seams allow solids to bypass the media. A substitute fabric can change drainage or cake release, while an unsuitable fibre or finish can deteriorate in the process liquid or during cleaning.
Approve fit and filtration performance together before accepting a substitution. Compare production bags with the signed sample and repeat the agreed checks after any material or seam change. A generic fabric report does not establish the performance of the finished bag in your centrifuge.
Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For own-brand ranges, see sourcing for brands.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on centrifuge filter bags from China?
The relevant bag and filter-cloth lines carry 6% in the supplied tariff facts, with no anti-dumping or countervailing measures. Confirm the finished bag's commodity code before importing.
What dimensions does a centrifuge filter bag supplier need?
Provide basket diameter and depth, bag profile, mouth attachment, base shape, seams and any discharge opening. Include a drawing and explain installation, securing and removal.
How do I compare centrifuge filter bag samples?
Check actual basket fit, fibre, fabric mass, seams and permeability using the same method. Trial representative slurry and compare solids retention, drainage and cake release.
What evidence should I request for food-processing filter bags?
Request food-contact compliance evidence covering the fibre, finish, coating and intended contact conditions. Match the evidence to the supplied bag, rather than accepting a generic fabric statement.