Fatty Alcohol Polypropylene Glycol Ether
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3402422010 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402429000 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824994140 | 39.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999330 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402422010 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ͺ Fatty Alcohol Polypropylene Glycol Ether (Surfactants)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Classification Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Chemical Nature: What Exactly Is It?
Fatty Alcohol Polypropylene Glycol Ether is a non-ionic surfactant widely used in detergents, emulsifiers, and industrial cleaning agents. Its chemical structure consists of: 1. Fatty Alcohol (θθͺι): Derived from vegetable or animal fats (lipid substances). 2. Polypropylene Glycol Ether (θζ°§δΈη―ι): An ethoxylated/polyether structure derived from propylene oxide.
β οΈ Key Classification Challenge:
Due to its complex composition (mixing lipid derivatives with synthetic polyethers), it can fall under different chapters depending on the primary functional characteristic emphasized during customs valuation: - Is it viewed primarily as a surfactant? β Chapter 34 - Is it viewed primarily as a chemical mixture/ester/diol? β Chapter 38
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Matrix (2026 Latest Tariff Data)
Based on the provided tax data, there are 5 specific HS Codes available for this product. Note that two codes are identical but have different summaries, suggesting potential ambiguity or multiple entry points.
| HS Code | Product Description / Rationale | Tax Rate (Total) | Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402.42.20.10 | Surfactant Focus: Fatty alcohol is a lipid source; polypropylene glycol ether is the polyether material. | 39.0% | Fits "Preparations for washing" or surfactants based on physical form and usage. |
| 3402.42.90.00 | Non-ionic Surfactant Focus: Fatty alcohol is organic; polypropylene glycol ether is a typical non-ionic surfactant structure. | 38.7% | Aligns with the definition of non-ionic surfactants (Chapter 34). |
| 3824.99.41.40 | Ester/Derivative Focus: Fatty alcohol is a fatty acid derivative; chemicallyζ¬θ΄¨ (essence) is a mixture of fatty acid esters or related lipids. | 39.6% | Classifies based on material matching as a fatty acid derivative mixture. |
| 3824.99.93.30 | Alcohol Mixture Focus: Fatty alcohol is an alcohol substance; fits the "mixture of alcohols" material requirement with no conflict. | 40.0% | Classified as an "Other Prepared Binders/Preparations" based on alcohol properties. |
| 3824.99.93.30 | Catch-all Principle: Based on alcohol properties and residual principles, classified under other alcohol mixtures. | 40.0% | Same code as above, different interpretive summary (backup classification). |
π Critical Insight:
- The lowest tax rate is 38.7% (HS3402.42.90.00). - The highest tax rate is 40.0% (HS3824.99.93.30). - The difference in total tax is small (1.3%), but the legal basis differs significantly. Misclassification can lead to penalties.
π° III. Detailed Tariff Structure (US Import from China)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. HS Code 3402.42.20.10 (Surfactant - Lipid/Polyether Mix)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% (USITC Footnote) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific US Trade Policy) |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High tariff rate exceeds exemption thresholds) |
| Legal Path | Base: 3402 β Sec301: 25% β Sec122: 10% |
π Explanation:
- The 25% Section 301 tariff applies to most Chinese chemical surfactants. - The 10% Section 122 tariff is an additional layer for specific chemical imports. - Total 39% is a significant cost driver.
π― 2. HS Code 3402.42.90.00 (Non-ionic Surfactant)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.7% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 38.7% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | Base: 3402 β Sec301: 25% β Sec122: 10% |
π Note:
- This is the most favorable classification among the 5 options. - It relies on the strong argument that the product is primarily a non-ionic surfactant.
π― 3. HS Code 3824.99.41.40 (Fatty Acid Derivative Mixture)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.6% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.6% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 39.6% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | Base: 3824 β Sec301: 25% β Sec122: 10% |
π Caution:
- Higher base tariff (4.6%) than Chapter 34 codes. - Requires strong documentation proving the product is a fatty acid ester/derivative mixture rather than a standard surfactant.
π― 4. HS Code 3824.99.93.30 (Alcohol Mixture)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.0% |
| Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | Base: 3824 β Sec301: 25% β Sec122: 10% |
π Note:
- Highest tax rate. - Used as a fallback if the product cannot be clearly defined as a surfactant or fatty acid derivative.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| β Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | βοΈ | Must detail the surfactant function to support Chapter 34 classification. |
| β Composition Breakdown | βοΈ | Percentage of fatty alcohol vs. polypropylene glycol ether. |
| β Product Photos (Label/Container) | βοΈ | Show usage instructions (e.g., "Detergent Ingredient"). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state "Non-ionic Surfactant" and HS Code. |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | To confirm Chinese origin and apply correct Section 301/122 tariffs. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Tips)
π₯ "Highlight Function, Not Just Chemistry!"
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Product sold as detergent ingredient | 3402.42.90.00 (38.7%) | Strongest link to "Surfactant" definition. Lowest tax. |
| Product sold as chemical intermediate | 3824.99.41.40 (39.6%) | If buyer uses it for esterification, not washing. |
| Product sold as raw material blend | 3824.99.93.30 (40.0%) | Last resort if function is ambiguous. |
β οΈ Warning:
- Do NOT use generic terms like "Chemical Mix" or "Ether" on invoices.
- Use precise terms: "Non-ionic Surfactant, Fatty Alcohol Polypropylene Glycol Ether".
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OEM/Private Label | Provide customer PO + specification sheet to prove intended use as surfactant. |
| Mixed Containers | Ensure all units have the same HS Code. Mixed classifications increase audit risk. |
| High-Value Shipments | Consider Advance Ruling from US CBP to lock in the 38.7% rate. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Estimated Duty (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3402.42.90.00 |
38.7% | Includes 301 + 122 tariffs. High cost. |
| π¨π³ China | 3402.42.90.00 |
4.0% - 5.0% | Low import duty. No Section 301. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3824.99.90 |
6.5% | No Section 301/122. Lower base duty. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3402.90.00 |
0.0% - 2.0% | Often 0% for surfactants under FTA. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to layered tariffs.
- EU and Japan are more favorable for Chinese-origin chemicals.
- Strategy: If targeting the US, ensure strict classification under 3402 to minimize the 39%+ burden.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying as 3824.99.93.30 (40.0%) without justification
π Result: Overpayment of 1.3% per unit + audit risk if function is clearly surfactant.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
π Result: Unexpected 10% charge at port, causing shipment delays.
β Mistake 3: Using vague descriptions like "Industrial Chemical"
π Result: CBP may reclassify to a higher-tariff or restricted category.
β Mistake 4: Assuming De Minimis applies
π Result: Package seized or taxed retroactively (Section 301/122 items are not exempt).
β Correct Approach:
"Non-ionic Surfactant, Fatty Alcohol Polypropylene Glycol Ether, for Detergent Formulation, HS 3402.42.90.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification Saves Money
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Best HS Code:
3402.42.90.00(38.7% total tax)
πΉ Avoid:3824.99.93.30(40.0% total tax) unless necessary.
πΉ Always declare: "Non-ionic Surfactant" to support Chapter 34 classification.
π Pro Tip:
If your product is originally from Vietnam, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may qualify for tariff exemptions or lower rates under US trade policies.
For Chinese origin, Apply for a Pre-Ruling (CBP) to secure the 38.7% rate and avoid disputes.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker.
π Prepare TDS and Composition Analysis.
π Classify as 3402.42.90.00 to optimize costs.
β¨ Precision Classification = Lower Costs = Higher Profit!
πΌ Every 0.1% saved on duty adds to your bottom line!
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.