Eco friendly Paint Remover
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3824994900 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402905030 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824992900 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402905010 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π¨ Eco-Friendly Paint Remover (Water-Based)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Eco-Friendly Paint Remover"?
"Eco-Friendly Paint Remover" typically refers to chemical strippers that replace traditional volatile organic compound (VOC) solvents (like methylene chloride) with water-based or low-toxicity formulations. In international trade, these are classified based on their chemical composition and primary function.
Because they are liquid chemical mixtures designed to remove coatings (paint, varnish, etc.), they generally fall into two major chapters: 1. Chapter 38: Miscellaneous Chemical Products (General chemical preparations). 2. Chapter 34: Soap, Organic Surface-Active Agents, Washing Preparations (Cleaning/Processing preparations).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is primarily a chemical solvent mixture designed for industrial stripping β It usually falls under 3824.
- If the product is formulated more like a surfactant/cleaning agent that dissolves paint through emulsification or mild chemical action β It may fall under 3402.
- Note: "Eco-friendly" does not automatically change the HS Code. The chemical nature (solvent vs. surfactant) determines the code.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
| HS Code | Product Description | Logic for Classification | Tax Rate (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
3824.99.49.00 |
Other chemical products and preparations (e.g., plasticizers, non-refined oils). Water-based paint removers are often classified here as general chemical preparations. | Chemical Preparation: Fits the logic of "chemical products or preparations" in Chapter 38. Liquid form, chemical stripping action. | 41.5% |
3402.90.50.30 |
Other surface-active preparations and preparations for use as laundry or cleaning products. | Cleaning/Processing: Logic is "Cleaning preparations" (Cleaning/Processing category). If the product acts more like a specialized cleaner/detector than a harsh solvent. | 38.7% |
3824.99.29.00 |
Other chemical products and preparations. | Chemical Preparation: Common classification for liquid chemical mixtures used in industrial or DIY stripping. Based on common sense as a liquid mixture. | 41.5% |
3402.90.50.10 |
Other surface-active preparations. | Chemical/Surfactant Logic: Functions as a cleaning/removal chemical. Fits Chapter 34 logic for "surfactant/cleaning agents" that remove coatings. | 38.7% |
π Critical Reminder:
- 3824 vs. 3402 Debate: Customs officers may challenge the classification. If your product contains harsh solvents (even if water-based), 3824 is safer. If it is predominantly surfactant-based and mild, 3402 might apply.
- Tax Difference:3402codes have a lower Base Duty (3.7% vs 6.5%), but both are subject to the same additional tariffs below.
- Liquid State: All these codes require the product to be declared as a liquid.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Ongoing (including imports after 2025)
π― 1. Classification Group A: 3824.99.49.00 & 3824.99.29.00
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 6.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% (USITC Footnote associated with China origin) |
| Section 122 Duty | +10.0% (Specific additional tariff, often referred to as "122 Clause") |
| Total Effective Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Authority Path | USITC:3824.99.49.00 β Section 301: +25% β Section 122: +10% |
π Explanation:
- The 6.5% is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty for miscellaneous chemical products.
- The 25% is the standard Section 301 tariff for most Chinese chemical goods.
- The 10% is an additional layer of tariff (often linked to specific trade enforcement clauses).
- Total: 41.5%. This is a significant cost factor for bulk imports.
π― 2. Classification Group B: 3402.90.50.30 & 3402.90.50.10
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 3.7% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +25.0% (USITC Footnote associated with China origin) |
| Section 122 Duty | +10.0% (Specific additional tariff) |
| Total Effective Rate | 38.7% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Deny De Minimis) |
| Legal Authority Path | USITC:3402.90.50.30 β Section 301: +25% β Section 122: +10% |
π Explanation:
- The 3.7% base rate is lower than the 3824 group, making this classification slightly more tax-efficient.
- However, if Customs determines the product is not a "surface-active agent" but a "chemical solvent," they will reassess to 3824, resulting in a 2.8% increase in total tax (41.5% vs 38.7%).
- Total: 38.7%.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Must-Have)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail: Water-based formulation, % of active ingredients, VOC content, pH level. |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) | βοΈ | Crucial. Must classify as "Non-Hazardous" or "Low Hazard" to avoid complex HazMat clearance fees. |
| β Formula Declaration | βοΈ | To support the argument for 3402 (surfactant-based) vs. 3824 (general chemical). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Water-Based Eco-Friendly Paint Remover," not just "Paint Remover." |
| β Free Sale Certificate | βοΈ | Proves the product is legally sold in the country of origin. |
| β Packaging Photos | βοΈ | Show liquid containers, labels, and hazard symbols (if any). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Clarify Formula, Emphasize 'Eco', Label Precisely, Avoid 'Solvent'!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration Approach | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Product is Water-Based | Use terms: "Water-Based," "Low VOC," "Surfactant-based." | Using terms: "Solvent-based," "Chemical Striker," "Methylene Chloride Alternative." |
| HS Code Selection | If surfactant-heavy β 3402. If general chemical β 3824. |
Guessing. If unsure, 3824 is the "safe" default, but 3402 saves tax if justified. |
| Description on Invoice | "Eco-Friendly Water-Based Paint & Varnish Remover, Liquid." | "Chemical Cleaner" (Too vague) or "Industrial Solvent" (Triggers higher scrutiny). |
| HazMat Classification | If UN Number is none (non-hazardous), state "Not Regulated for Transport." | Failing to declare. If it's hazardous, expect extra handling fees. |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
Customs Challenges 3402 |
Provide third-party lab reports showing surfactant content > 50%. Argue it functions as a "cleaning/preparation agent." |
| Product is "Gel" Form | Still liquid/paste. Ensure SDS classifies it correctly. Gels are often scrutinized more. |
| OEM/Private Label | Ensure the supplier provides the exact chemical formula for duty determination. Different formulas = different HS Codes. |
| Small Samples (De Minimis) | Even for small quantities, if the HS Code is under Section 301, de minimis ($800) exemption may be denied for Chinese origin. Check current CBP rulings. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Base Duty | Additional Tariffs (China) | Total Effective Duty | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3824.99.49.00 or 3402.90.50.x0 |
3.7% - 6.5% | +35% (Section 301 + 122) | 38.7% - 41.5% | High barrier. Must justify "Eco" claim to potentially argue for lower base rate. |
| π¨π³ China | 3824.99.99.90 or 3402.90.90.90 |
5% - 6% | None | ~5-6% | Low import duty. Focus on domestic consumption. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3824.72.00.00 or 3402.90.00.00 |
6.5% | None (Generally) | 6.5% | No Section 301 equivalent. Focus on REACH compliance. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3824.72.00.00 or 3402.90.00.00 |
6.5% | None (Generally) | 6.5% | Post-Brexit tariff structure. REACH registration required. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 and additional clauses.
- EU/UK offer much lower tariffs but have stricter environmental/chemical regulations (REACH, SVHC).
- "Eco-Friendly" marketing does not reduce US Tariffs, but it may help in customs disputes by supporting the3402classification (lower base rate).
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons from the Field)
β Error 1: Using "Solvent" in the product name
π Consequence: Customs immediately classifies as 3824 with potential HazMat handling.
π Fix: Use "Water-Based Remover" or "Cleaning Preparation."
β Error 2: Claiming 3402 without surfactant evidence
π Consequence: Customs reassess to 3824, leading to back taxes + interest.
π Fix: Provide lab analysis proving surfactant/cleaning agent properties.
β Error 3: Ignoring Section 122 Duty
π Consequence: Underestimating total cost by 10%.
π Fix: Always include +10% in cost calculations for Chinese origin.
β Error 4: Incorrect SDS Classification
π Consequence: If SDS says "Flammable," shipping costs skyrocket (HazMat air freight).
π Fix: Ensure SDS reflects "Non-Flammable" if water-based.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"Eco-Friendly Water-Based Paint and Varnish Remover, Liquid, Surfactant-Based, Low VOC, Model: GreenStrip 100, HS: 3402.90.50.30"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Optimization!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Water-Based, Not Solvent; 3402 Saves Money, 3824 is Safe."
πΉ "SDS is Key, Formula is King; 41.5% Total Tax, Plan Your Margin."
π Pro Tip:
If your product is manufactured in Vietnam, Malaysia, or Thailand (not China), you can avoid the 35% additional tariffs (Section 301 + 122).
- Total Duty drops to just the Base Rate (3.7% - 6.5%).
- Recommendation: For the US market, consider supply chain diversification to non-China origins to significantly reduce landed cost.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker with your SDS and Formula.
π Get a Pre-Ruling if the volume is high to lock in the HS Code and avoid retroactive penalties.
π‘ Your Profit Margin Depends on Precision!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Duty Saved is Pure Profit!
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.