Biodiesel (Non food Grade)
CN β USAI Analysis
π Biodiesel (Non-Food Grade)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What is "Non-Food Grade Biodiesel"?
Biodiesel (FAME - Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) is a renewable, biodegradable fuel manufactured from vegetable oils or animal fats. "Non-Food Grade" specifically refers to biodiesel produced from non-edible sources such as: * Used Cooking Oil (UCO) * Animal Tallow * Jatropha Oil * Waste Grease
In international trade, distinguishing between Food Grade (edible oils) and Non-Food Grade (waste/fuel grade) is critical because it determines the HS Code, tax rate, and regulatory compliance (e.g., food safety vs. fuel standards).
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If derived from edible plants (soybean, palm, rapeseed) for human consumption β Not Biodiesel (usually HS 1507-1515).
- If derived from waste/used oils or processed for fuel use (non-edible) β Biodiesel (HS 1516.20 / 3824.99).
- Clarification: Pure Biodiesel (100% FAME) is typically classified under HS 1516.20 or HS 3824.99 depending on purity and origin. However, in most customs contexts, Biodiesel intended for fuel is often cleared under HS 3824.99 (Prepared binders... other) or HS 1518.00 (Fixed oils, not elsewhere specified). Note: The EU and US have specific interpretations. Below focuses on the general global consensus for fuel-grade biodiesel.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Classification Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
1516.20.90.00 |
Animal or vegetable fats and oils, partially or wholly hydrogenated, inter-esterified, re-esterified or elaidinised, whether or not refined, but not further prepared | Chemical Intermediate Biodiesel: Pre-fuel processing, not yet meeting fuel standards | Not for direct fuel use |
3824.99.99.00 |
Other prepared binders for foundry moulds and cores; other chemical products and preparations (not elsewhere specified or included) | Fuel-Grade Biodiesel (USA/Global Standard): Final biodiesel (B100) intended for combustion | Most Common for B100 Fuel |
3824.99.10.00 |
Prepared binders for foundry moulds and cores | Specific regional classification (e.g., some Asian countries) | Check local tariff schedule |
1518.00.90.00 |
Fixed oils and fats, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified; animal or vegetable fats and oils and their fractions, boiled, dehydrated, oxidised, sulphurised, blowed, phosphorised, otherwise synthetised, whether or not refined, but not further prepared | Alternative Fuel Classification: Some jurisdictions classify unrefined biodiesel here | Less common for refined B100 |
π Critical Reminder:
- USA: Biodiesel (B100) is typically classified under HS 3824.99.99.00.
- EU: Biodiesel is often classified under HS 1516.20.90 or HS 3824.99 depending on refinement level.
- China: Biodiesel is often classified under HS 1518.00 or HS 3824.99.
- Always verify with local customs as interpretations vary by country.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025 November 10 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3824.99.99.00 ββ Biodiesel (Fuel Grade)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surtax | +25% (from USITC Footnote 9903.88.01) |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% (for China/HK products, from Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3824.99.99.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- "USITC surtax 25%" comes from Section 301 of the US Trade Act;
- "IEEPA 10%" is the additional tariff for Chinese products under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act;
- Total 35%, considered a high tariff for chemical fuels, must be anticipated in advance!
π― 2. 1516.20.90.00 ββ Partially Hydrogenated Fats/Oils (Pre-Fuel Biodiesel)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Rate | 0% |
| USITC Surtax | +25% |
| IEEPA Surtax | +10% |
| Total Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:1516.20.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Same tax treatment as fuel-grade biodiesel;
- Even if classified as chemical intermediate, the surtaxes still apply.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (All Required)
| Document | Mandatory | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Prove origin (US may deny preferential rates if from China) |
| β Fuel Quality Report | βοΈ | ASTM D6751 (US) or EN 14214 (EU) compliance |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Classify as UN 1993 (Flammable Liquid, N.O.S.) |
| β Bill of Lading (B/L) | βοΈ | Clearly state "Biodiesel B100" |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail tank containers or drums |
| β Importer Security Filing (ISF) | βοΈ | For US imports (10 days prior) |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βFuel Grade, HS 3824, UN 1993, No Food!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Biodiesel B100 (100%) | 3824.99.99.00 |
Misdeclare as "Edible Oil" β High penalty |
| Biodiesel Blend (B20) | Still 3824.99.99.00 (usually) |
Split declaration β Complex & risky |
| UCO (Used Cooking Oil) before processing | 1522.00.90.00 |
Declare as "Biodiesel" β Rejection |
| Biodiesel with additives (anti-foam) | 3824.99.99.00 |
Misdeclare as "Chemical Additive" |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Biodiesel | Provide supplier contract + quality specs |
| Biodiesel for Export Re-import | Apply for duty drawback if eligible |
| Biodiesel for Military Use | May qualify for exemption; apply in advance |
| Biodiesel from US/Canada | Apply for USMCA/CUSMA exemption (0% tariff) |
π V. Global Main Markets Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3824.99.99.00 |
35% | EPA RINs + DOT UN 1993 | High surtax |
| π¨π³ China | 1518.00 or 3824.99 |
5-10% | No specific | Low tariff |
| πͺπΊ EU | 1516.20 or 3824.99 |
0-6.5% | EN 14214 + ISCC Certification | No surtax |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3824.99 |
5% | Australian Car Standards | No surtax |
| π―π΅ Japan | 1518.00 |
0-12% | JIS K 2380 | No surtax |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the only market imposing high surtaxes on biodiesel;
- Chinese-produced biodiesel in the US incurs high costs; consider supply chain adjustment or origin change (e.g., USA, Canada, EU).
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Blood Lessons)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Biodiesel as "Edible Oil"
π Consequence: FDA seizure + fine β Ship returned!
β Mistake 2: Incorrectly classifying Biodiesel as "Vegetable Oil" (HS 1507-1515)
π Consequence: Tariff rate mismatch β Back taxes + delay
β Mistake 3: Not providing SDS or UN number
π Consequence: Freight carrier refuses cargo β Logistics failure
β Mistake 4: Using "Biodiesel" without specifying grade
π Consequence: Customs unclear on food/non-food status β Inspection delay
β Correct Practice:
βBiodiesel B100, Non-Food Grade, ASTM D6751 Compliant, UN 1993, Flammable Liquid, HS Code 3824.99.99.00β
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time, Cut Costs!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ βBiodiesel, HS 3824, UN 1993, No Food!β
πΉ βHS Code determines tax, rate difference 35 points, declaration wrong, back tax huge!β
π Tips:
- If your biodiesel originates from USA, Canada, or EU, you can apply for USMCA/CUSMA exemption, tariff is 0%;
- Suggest Advance Ruling application to avoid clearance risks.
π£ Act Now:
π Contact professional customs broker + Provide SDS + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Let your biodiesel, clear customs smoothly, export efficiently, double profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every penny of your cost deserves precise calculation!
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.