Activated Carbon Formaldehyde Remover
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4402900100 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8421390115 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3802100050 | 39.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3808945095 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3808594000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
πΏ Activated Carbon Formaldehyde Remover
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Activated Carbon Formaldehyde Remover"?
Activated Carbon Formaldehyde Removers are widely used in home and office air purification systems to adsorb Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), specifically formaldehyde. In international trade, the classification of these products is complex because they can be viewed through multiple lenses: as a raw material (carbon), as a chemical agent (adsorbent/disinfectant), or as a device component (air purifier medium).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is considered a processed carbon material itself β It falls under Chapter 38 (Chemical Products).
- If the product is viewed strictly as charcoal/wood charcoal derivative β It falls under Chapter 44 (Wood and Articles of Wood).
- If the product is seen as a functional medium within an air purifier β It might be linked to Chapter 84 (Machinery), but typically, standalone carbon is classified by its material/chemical nature, not its application alone.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the specific attributes of Activated Carbon Formaldehyde Removers, here are the four most relevant HS Codes and their corresponding tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Classification Logic | Total Tax Rate (US from China) |
|---|---|---|---|
4402.90.01.00 |
Wood Charcoal including Shells Charcoal | Viewed as a derivative of wood charcoal; activated carbon is a processed form of charcoal. | 35.0% |
8421.39.01.15 |
Air Purifying Machinery/Devices | Viewed based on function: "Air Purification." Carbon is the medium for dust/gas removal. | 35.0% |
3802.10.00.50 |
Activated Carbon (Other) | Viewed based on material: Purely chemical/processed carbon material fitting "Activated Carbon" definition. | 39.8% |
3808.94.50.95 |
Disinfectants and Pesticides (Other) | Viewed as a functional agent: "Formaldehyde Remover" is classified as a disinfectant/chemical agent. | 40.0% |
3808.59.40.00 |
Disinfectants (Other Chemical Preparations) | Viewed as a chemical preparation for disinfection/removal of harmful substances. | 40.0% |
π Key Insight:
-4402vs3802: The core debate is whether it's "Charcoal" (Wood product) or "Activated Carbon" (Chemical/Processed product).3802usually attracts a higher base tariff (4.8% vs 0%) but both face the sameιε tariffs. -8421Risk: Classifying as machinery (8421) is risky if the product is sold as a loose bag of carbon, not an integrated machine. Customs may reclassify it. -3808Risk: Classifying as a disinfectant (3808) assumes a "biocidal" or "purification agent" function. While common for "formaldehyde removers," the base tariff is highest (5.0%).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (Including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 4402.90.01.00 ββ Wood Charcoal / Activated Carbon Derivative
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122/CN) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:4402.90.01.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- This classification treats the product as Charcoal. The base tariff is 0%, making it seemingly attractive, but it still bears the full brunt of trade war tariffs. - Suitable for bulk industrial charcoal or raw activated carbon bags where the "chemical processing" aspect is deemphasized.
π― 2. 8421.39.01.15 ββ Air Purification Equipment (Medium)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122/CN) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:8421.39.01.15 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- This classification focuses on Function: Air Purification. - β οΈ Warning: If you import standalone carbon bags without a machine, Customs may reject this code as "not a machine." It is safer for integrated air purifier filters or components sold with machinery. - Same total rate as4402, but different classification logic.
π― 3. 3802.10.00.50 ββ Activated Carbon (Chemical/Material)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.8% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122/CN) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 39.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3802.10.00.50 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- This is the most accurate material-based classification for "Activated Carbon." - It acknowledges the chemical processing (activation) of the carbon. - The base tariff is higher (4.8%), leading to a higher total rate (39.8%). This is often the safest technical classification for pure activated carbon products.
π― 4. 3808.94.50.95 & 3808.59.40.00 ββ Disinfectants / Chemical Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122/CN) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β USITC:3808.xxxxx β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- These codes classify the product as a "Formaldehyde Remover Agent" (Disinfectant/Chemical). - This is common for products marketed explicitly as "Chemical Air Purifiers" or "Formaldehyde Neutralizers" rather than just adsorbents. - Highest Total Rate (40%): Because the base tariff is 5.0%. - β οΈ Risk: If the product is just plain carbon without chemical additives, Customs may challenge this classification as misleading.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Clearly state: Is it pure activated carbon? Or does it contain chemical impregnants (e.g., KMnO4, zeolite)? |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show packaging, labeling, and the carbon material itself. |
| β Ingredient List / SDS | βοΈ | Critical for 3808 codes. If it's pure carbon, SDS should show >99% C. If it has chemicals, list them. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Describe accurately: "Activated Carbon Filter" vs "Air Purifier Component" vs "Chemical Disinfectant." |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions must match. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Material Defines Nature, Function Defines Context, Accuracy Saves Cost!"
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Why? | Risk if Misclassified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Activated Carbon Bags (No chemicals) | 3802.10.00.50 |
Most accurate for "Activated Carbon." | Using 4402 might be accepted but 3802 is safer for processed carbon. |
| Activated Carbon with Chemical Additives (e.g., formaldehyde neutralizer) | 3808.94.50.95 or 3808.59.40.00 |
The chemical action classifies it as a disinfectant/preparation. | Using 3802 might be rejected if chemicals are present. |
| Integrated Air Purifier Filter (Part of a machine) | 8421.39.01.15 |
It is a component for air purification machinery. | Declaring as loose carbon when sold as a filter kit may cause rejection. |
| Bulk Wood Charcoal / Raw Carbon | 4402.90.01.00 |
It is essentially charcoal. | High risk if the carbon is highly processed (activated). |
β 3. Special Cases & Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| "Formaldehyde Remover" is a Marketing Term | If the product is pure carbon, do NOT use "Disinfectant" (3808) in the declaration. Use "Activated Carbon" (3802). Using 3808 for pure carbon is fraudulent misclassification. |
| Chemically Impregnated Carbon | If the carbon is soaked in potassium permanganate or other oxidizers to chemically break down formaldehyde, must use 3808 codes. The chemical reaction is the primary function, not just adsorption. |
| OEM Custom Products | Provide client orders and design specs. If the design specifies "Air Purifier Component," lean toward 8421. If it specifies "Raw Material," lean toward 3802 or 4402. |
| Duty Mitigation Strategy | Since 4402 and 8421 have lower base tariffs (0%), they are attractive. However, 4402 requires the product to be legally "Charcoal." 8421 requires it to be part of machinery. If neither applies, 3802 (39.8%) is the correct and safe choice despite being slightly more expensive than 4402 (35%). Do not risk a 301/301 investigation for a 3-5% saving. |
π V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Update)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Base Tariff | Additional Taxes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3802.10.00.50 |
4.8% | 35% Total (301+IEEPA) | Most accurate for pure activated carbon. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3808.94.50.95 |
5.0% | 40% Total (301+IEEPA) | Use only if chemically treated. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3802.10.00 |
0% | None (Standard MFN) | EU does not have Section 301/122 tariffs on China. |
| π¨π³ China | 3802.10.00 |
5-8% (Import) | None | Domestic sales not affected by import tariffs. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3802.10.00 |
5% | None | No additional surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- The US is the most difficult market due to theε ε (stacking) of USITC (25%) and IEEPA (10%) tariffs. - The EU and other markets are much friendlier, with no additional surcharges on these HS codes. - For the US, accuracy is critical to avoid audits.3802.10.00.50is the standard for activated carbon.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Declaring "Activated Carbon" as 4402 (Charcoal) when it is chemically processed.
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify to 3802, leading to back taxes + penalties.
β Error 2: Declaring "Activated Carbon Bags" as 8421 (Machinery) to avoid higher base tariffs.
π Consequence: If no machine is included, Customs will reject the entry. 8421 is for machines/components, not loose consumables.
β Error 3: Using 3808 (Disinfectant) for pure carbon to claim "green" benefits.
π Consequence: High Audit Risk. If lab tests show no biocidal chemicals, you will be fined for misclassification.
β Error 4: Ignoring the "122 Clause" (IEEPA 10%).
π Consequence: All four codes above carry the 10% IEEPA surcharge. Failing to budget for this leads to cash flow issues.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Activated Carbon, Granular, for Air Purification, Pure Carbon >99%, Model AC-200, Made in China"
HS Code:3802.10.00.50
Rate: 39.8%"Activated Carbon Filter, Impregnated with Potassium Permanganate, for Formaldehyde Removal, Part #XYZ, For Use in Air Purifier Model ABC"
HS Code:8421.39.01.15(if part of system) or3808.94.50.95(if sold as chemical agent)
Rate: 35.0% or 40.0%
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification, Risk-Free Clearance!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Pure Carbon? Use
3802(39.8%).
πΉ "Chemical Treated? Use3808(40.0%).
πΉ "Part of Machine? Use8421(35.0%).
πΉ "Raw Charcoal? Use4402(35.0%).
πΉ "Never Guess! Documentation is King!"πΉ "HS Code Determines Tax, Tax Determines Cost, Misclassification Means Penalty!"
π Pro Tip:
- If you are importing pure activated carbon, consider applying for an Advance Ruling (Pre-classification) from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to lock in 3802.10.00.50 and avoid disputes.
- For chemical-treated carbon, ensure your SDS (Safety Data Sheet) explicitly states the active ingredients to support 3808 classification.
- Always calculate the 35-40% total landed cost into your pricing strategy for the US market. The tariffs are non-negotiable for Chinese-origin goods.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Licensed Customs Broker + Provide Product Samples + Request HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Ensure Smooth Clearance, Minimize Taxes, Maximize Profits!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar Saved is a Dollar Earned!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.