DOT3制动液
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3403191000 | 35.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3819000090 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3819000010 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
🚗 DOT3 Brake Fluid: HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide (USA/China Context)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Level Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What is DOT3 Brake Fluid?
DOT3 Brake Fluid is a glycol-based hydraulic fluid used in automotive braking systems. Unlike DOT4 or DOT5, DOT3 is primarily composed of polyglycol ethers (such as diethylene glycol monomethyl ether).
Key Distinction for Classification: * DOT3/DOT4: Glycol-based (Water-soluble, hygroscopic). Not primarily petroleum-based. * DOT5: Silicone-based (Water-repellent). * Mineral Oil-based: Used in some European luxury cars (e.g., old Mercedes/BMW).
⚠️ Critical Classification Point:
Since DOT3 is glycol-based and not predominantly derived from petroleum oils (typically >70% hydrocarbon content), it DOES NOT qualify for Chapter 34 (Petroleum-based lubricants/additives) under the "Petroleum Oil" criteria.
Instead, it falls under Chapter 38 as "Prepared Industrial Chemicals" or specifically "Hydraulic Fluids."
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided <DATA> for DOT4 (which shares similar chemical and functional characteristics with DOT3 for classification purposes in this context), here are the relevant HS Codes:
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
3819.00.00.10 |
Hydraulic Brake Fluid | Automotive braking systems | ✅ Primary Choice: Explicitly covers "Hydraulic Brake Fluid" per classification notes. DOT3 is a type of hydraulic brake fluid. |
3819.00.00.90 |
Other Hydraulic Fluids | Other industrial hydraulic fluids | ✅ Alternative: If not explicitly identified as "Brake Fluid" in documentation, it may fall here as a general hydraulic fluid. |
3403.19.10.00 |
Preparations for Lubrication... | Petroleum/Asphalt-based preparations | ❌ Incorrect for DOT3: DOT3 is glycol-based, not petroleum-based. This code is for mineral-oil-based preparations. Note: The provided data suggests this code might be argued for DOT4 in some specific interpretations, but technically DOT3 is distinct. However, following the constraint, we analyze it as a potential (though less accurate) alternative if misidentified as petroleum-based. |
🔍 Important Note on DOT3 vs. DOT4:
While DOT4 has a higher dry/wet boiling point, both are glycol-ether based. Customs often classify them under the same heading (3819) because they share the same primary function (hydraulic brake fluid) and base chemistry (polyglycol).
The provided<DATA>uses DOT4 as the reference. We apply this logic to DOT3.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (USA/China Context)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: Post-2025 (Including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 3819.00.00.10 —— Hydraulic Brake Fluid (Preferred)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Tariff (USITC) | +25.0% (Additional tariff on Chinese goods) |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10.0% (Specific administrative tariff) |
| Total Tax Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (High tax rate prevents 80/80/200 rule exemption) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3819.00.00.10 → SECTION:301 (Footnote 9903.88.01 applies) → SECTION:122 |
📌 Explanation:
- 6.5% Base: Standard MFN rate for prepared industrial chemicals.
- +25% Section 301: Trade war tariff on Chinese goods.
- +10% Section 122: Additional administrative tariff.
- Total: 41.5%. This is a high-cost category for imports into the US.
🎯 2. 3819.00.00.90 —— Other Hydraulic Fluids
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF × 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3819.00.00.90 → SECTION:301 → SECTION:122 |
📌 Note:
- Tax rate is identical to3819.00.00.10.
- Use this code only if the product is not specifically labeled as "Brake Fluid" but is a general hydraulic fluid.
⚠️ 3. 3403.19.10.00 —— Petroleum-Based Lubrication Preparations (Less Accurate for DOT3)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.2% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.2% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF × 35.2% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3403.19.10.00 → SECTION:301 → SECTION:122 |
📌 Critical Warning:
- DOT3 is NOT petroleum-based. It is glycol-based.
- Classifying DOT3 under3403is technically incorrect and poses a high customs risk (misclassification).
- If customs audits and finds it is glycol-based, you will face penalties, back taxes, and potential delays.
- The 35.2% rate is lower, but the risk of misdeclaration is severe. Do not use this code for DOT3 unless you have a specific, legally binding ruling.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (实战避坑指南)
✅ 1. Document Checklist (Must-Have)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Must state: "Glycol-Based Hydraulic Brake Fluid," "DOT3 Compliance (FMVSS 116 / ISO 4925)." |
| ✅ Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | ✔️ | Shows chemical composition (Polyglycol Ether, NOT Mineral Oil). |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clear description: "DOT3 Brake Fluid, Glycol-Based." |
| ✅ Certificate of Origin (CO) | ✔️ | Required for origin verification. |
| ✅ Packaging List | ✔️ | Net/Gross weight, volume. |
| ✅ Third-Party Test Report | ✔️ | Proof of DOT3 standard compliance (Boiling point, viscosity). |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
🔥 "Specify DOT3, Glycol-Based, Not Petroleum!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| DOT3 Brake Fluid | 3819.00.00.10 - "Hydraulic Brake Fluid, DOT3, Glycol-Based" |
Declare as "Lubricant" → 3403 → Misclassification Risk |
| Mixed Lot (Brake Fluid + Oil) | Separate HS Codes! | Combine into one line item → Confusion & Delay |
| DOT5 (Silicone) | 3819.00.00.90 or specific silicone code |
Declare as DOT3 → Wrong Physical Properties |
| Mineral Oil Brake Fluid | 3403.19.10.00 |
Declare as DOT3 → Wrong Base Chemistry |
✅ 3. Special Cases Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM/Private Label | Provide label samples. Ensure "DOT3" is clearly printed. |
| Bulk vs. Retail | Same HS code. Only packaging differs. |
| Small Sample Shipments | De Minimis Rule (Section 321): If value < $800, NO TAX for US residents. If > $800, pay 41.5%. |
| Hazmat Classification | Brake fluid is NOT generally classified as hazardous for transport (UN Number: Not usually UN listed for glycol brake fluid, but check SDS). However, it is flammable (Low flash point). |
🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3819.00.00.10 |
41.5% | No specific DOT certification required for import, but product must meet FMVSS 116. | High tariff due to Section 301 & 122. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 3819.00.00.10 |
~6.5% | CCC (if applicable for auto parts) | Lower tariff. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3819.00.00 |
~6.5% | CE (if applicable), REACH | No Section 301 equivalent. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | 3819.00.00.10 |
~6.5% (Most Favored Nation) | Transport Canada | Free trade under CUSMA? Check specific rules. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 3819.00.00 |
~6.5% | JASO | No major附加税. |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA has the highest tariff (41.5%) due to trade policies.
- Misclassification under 3403 is risky for DOT3.
- Use3819.00.00.10for accuracy.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood & Tears Lessons)
❌ Error 1: Classifying DOT3 under 3403 because "it's a fluid."
👉 Consequence: Customs audit finds it's glycol-based, not petroleum. Back taxes + Penalties!
❌ Error 2: Declaring "Brake Fluid" without specifying DOT3/DOT4.
👉 Consequence: Customs may default to the highest tax rate or require additional documentation, causing delays.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring Section 301 & 122 tariffs.
👉 Consequence: Underestimating landed cost by 35%!
❌ Error 4: Using De Minimis for shipments > $800.
👉 Consequence: Seizure or forced clearance with back taxes.
✅ Correct Approach:
"DOT3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid, Glycol-Based, FMVSS 116 Certified, Net Weight 1L, HS Code: 3819.00.00.10"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precision Classification Saves Money!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "DOT3 is Glycol, Not Oil!"
🔹 "3819.00.00.10 is the Safe Code!"
🔹 "41.5% Tax in USA, Plan Accordingly!"
📌 Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes into the US, consider applying for a Section 301 Exclusion (if available for your specific product) or explore transshipment through non-China origins (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand) to mitigate the 25% + 10% tariffs. Always verify with a licensed customs broker!
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Contact a licensed US customs broker.
🚀 Get an Advance Ruling to confirm HS Code3819.00.00.10for your specific DOT3 product.
💼 Your bottom line depends on accurate classification!
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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) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — 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 — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — 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.