Degreasing Cleaner

🧪 Degreasing Cleaner: HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide (2026)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Clearance Strategy | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Protocol
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What is a "Degreasing Cleaner"?

Degreasing cleaners are chemical formulations designed to remove oils, greases, lubricants, and carbon deposits from surfaces (metal, machinery, industrial parts, or household items). In international trade, they are typically classified based on their chemical composition and primary function.

⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is primarily a solvent-based degreaser (e.g., containing organic solvents like acetone, toluene, or specialized petroleum distillates) → It often falls under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
- If the product is primarily a surfactant-based detergent (e.g., emulsifying degreasers, foam cleaners) → It often falls under Chapter 34 (Soap, Organic Surface-Active Agents, Washing Preparations).
- If the product is marketed for personal/household hygiene (e.g., hand cleaners for mechanics, bathroom/kitchen cleaning) → It may fall under Chapter 33 or 34.

📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)

The following 5 HS Codes are the most likely classifications for "Degreasing Cleaner," depending on specific formulation and intended use. Each includes the corresponding tax structure.

🔍 Important Note:
- All listed rates include Section 301 tariffs (25%) and Section 122 tariffs (10%) applicable to Chinese-origin goods imported into the US. - The Base Tariff varies depending on whether the product is classified as a chemical preparation (Ch 38), a cosmetic/toilet preparation (Ch 33), or a washing preparation (Ch 34).

💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (With Surcharges)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Country of Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)

🎯 1. 3809.93.50.00 & 3814.00.50.90 — Chemical Degreasers (High Base Tariff)

📌 Explanation:
- These codes apply if the cleaner is solvent-based or used for industrial chemical cleaning. - The 6.0% base tariff is higher than detergent codes, but the 35% combined surcharge dominates the cost. - Risk: High risk of customs scrutiny due to "Section 122" designation. Proper documentation is critical.

🎯 2. 3307.90.00.00 — Household/Sanitary Cleaners

📌 Explanation:
- Applies if the degreaser is marketed for home use (e.g., oven cleaner, grease remover for kitchen surfaces). - Slightly lower base tariff (5.4% vs 6.0%), but surcharges are identical.

🎯 3. 3402.90.50.30 & 3402.90.50.10 — Detergent/Surfactant Cleaners (Lowest Base Tariff)

📌 Explanation:
- Applies if the cleaner is water-based or surfactant-heavy (e.g., foaming degreasers, industrial dish soaps). - Lowest total tax rate (38.7%) among the options. - Crucial: Must prove the product is primarily a "washing preparation" (Chapter 34) and not a "solvent-based chemical" (Chapter 38).

🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoiding Pitfalls)

✅ 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)

✅ 2. Classification Strategy (Key Rules)

🔥 "Know Your Base: Solvent vs. Surfactant!"

📌 Critical Warning:
- Do NOT misclassify a solvent-based degreaser as a detergent (3402). Customs may reclassify it under 3809 or 3814, leading to additional duties and penalties. - Do NOT assume all "cleaners" are the same. The chemical base determines the chapter.

✅ 3. Special Cases

🌍 V. Global Market Comparison (2026)

📌 Conclusion:
- USA imposes high surcharges (35%) on Chinese chemical/detergent imports. - Chapter 34 (3402) is the most cost-effective (38.7% total) if the product qualifies. - Chapter 38 (3809, 3814) and Chapter 33 (3307) have slightly higher totals (40.4–41.0%).

📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)

❌ Error 1: Classifying a solvent-based degreaser as a detergent (3402)
👉 Result: Customs may reclassify to 3809 → Higher base tariff + penalties.

❌ Error 2: Using vague terms like "Chemical Cleaner" on the invoice
👉 Result: Delayed customs clearance, possible audit.

❌ Error 3: Ignoring Section 122 (10%)
👉 Result: Underpayment of duties → Back taxes + interest.

❌ Error 4: Assuming De Minimis ($800) applies
👉 Result: Chemicals are generally excluded from de minimis. Full duty applies.

✅ Correct Approach:

"Industrial Degreasing Cleaner, Solvent-Based, Non-Flammable, for Metal Parts Cleaning, Model XYZ, SDS Provided"

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money

🎯 Remember the Golden Rule:

🔹 "Solvent = Chapter 38 (Higher Base)"
🔹 "Surfactant/Detergent = Chapter 34 (Lowest Base)"
🔹 "Household/Toilet = Chapter 33 (Mid Base)"
🔹 "All = 35% Surcharge (US)"

📌 Pro Tip:

• Get a Pre-Ruling from US Customs (CBP) if your product is borderline between Chapter 34 and 38.
• Ensure your SDS clearly states the primary active ingredient to support your classification.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Consult a licensed customs broker.
📄 Prepare full SDS and formulation details.
📝 Select the lowest applicable HS Code (3402.90.50.10 if possible) with proper justification.

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every percentage point matters — optimize your tax burden today!