High Carbon Alcohol Mixture (Industrial)
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3824999320 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999330 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 290516 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 382499 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402421000 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402499000 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π§ͺ High Carbon Alcohol Mixture (Industrial)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "High Carbon Alcohol Mixture"?
A High Carbon Alcohol Mixture is an industrial chemical substance primarily composed of acyclic, monohydric, unsubstituted alcohols with 12 or more carbon atoms (C12+). It is typically used as a raw material for surfactants, emulsifiers, or industrial cleaning agents.
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on the purity, composition, and intended use:
1. Pure Chemical Substances (Single Item or Specific Mixture):
If the product is a defined chemical mixture (e.g., a specific blend of C12-C15 alcohols) and not formulated for a specific end-use like laundry, it may fall under Chapter 29 (Organic Chemicals) or Chapter 34 (Soap/Cleaning Preparations).
2. Prepared Chemical Products / Mixtures:
If the mixture is "prepared" (blended for specific industrial performance) and not elsewhere specified, it often falls under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If it is a non-ionic surfactant intended for cleaning or surface-active applications β Heading 3402
- If it is a generic mixture of alcohols for industrial synthesis, not specifically for cleaning β Heading 3824
- If it is a pure/single alcohol (not applicable here as it is a "Mixture") β Heading 2905
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided reference data, here are the possible HS Codes and their corresponding tax implications. Note that "Failed to retrieve" indicates high risk or ambiguity in automated systems; manual verification is required.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Status |
|---|---|---|---|
3402.42.10.00 |
Non-ionic organic surface-active agents: Aromatic or modified aromatic | Used if the alcohol mixture is specifically formulated as a non-ionic surfactant with aromatic/modified aromatic characteristics for cleaning | π’ 29.0% (4% Base + 25% Additional) |
3402.49.90.00 |
Other organic surface-active agents: Other | If classified as a surface-active agent but not aromatic/modified | π’ 0.0% (0% Base + 0% Additional) |
2905.16 |
Acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives: Saturated monohydric alcohols | If considered a pure chemical substance (unlikely for a "Mixture" unless highly standardized) | β οΈ Error (Failed to retrieve) |
3824.99 |
Prepared binders for foundry molds; chemical products and preparations: Other | If classified as a prepared chemical product (generic mixture) without specific alcohol designation | β οΈ Error (Failed to retrieve) |
3824.99.93.20 |
Other Mixtures of acyclic, monohydric, unsubstituted alcohols: Containing C12 or higher alcohols only | Highly Specific: Mixtures where the ONLY significant alcohols are C12+ | π’ 5.0% (5% Base + 0% Additional) |
3824.99.93.30 |
Other Mixtures of acyclic, monohydric, unsubstituted alcohols: Other | If it contains C12+ alcohols but also other components not fitting 93.20, or is a "Other" mixture |
π’ 30.0% (5% Base + 25% Additional) |
π Critical Analysis:
-3824.99.93.20and3824.99.93.30are the most technically accurate for an "Industrial Alcohol Mixture" if it is not a soap/cleaning agent.
-3402.42.10.00applies only if it is explicitly marketed/used as a surfactant with aromatic properties.
-3402.49.90.00offers 0% tariff but requires proof that it is a "surface-active preparation" and not just a chemical raw material.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3402.42.10.00 ββ Non-ionic Surfactant (Aromatic/Modified Aromatic)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff (China/ HK) | Not explicitly listed in data, but Base+301 totals 29.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 29.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 29.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High value goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3402.42.10.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Explanation:
- This classification assumes the product is a surfactant. The 25% surtax is applied due to its Chinese origin under Section 301. - Total Cost Impact: Significant. Must ensure marketing and MSDS support "surfactant" classification.
π― 2. 3402.49.90.00 ββ Other Surface-Active Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | N/A (0% rate) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3402.49.90.00 |
π Strategic Note:
- If the product can be legally classified here, it offers zero tariff. - Risk: Requires strong evidence that it is a "surface-active preparation" and not a pure chemical. Misclassification can lead to penalties.
π― 3. 3824.99.93.20 ββ Mixtures of Acyclic Alcohols (C12+ Only)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 5.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 5.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3824.99.93.20 |
π Explanation:
- This is the best-case scenario for non-surfactant industrial mixtures if the alcohol content is strictly C12 or higher. - The 0% additional tariff is a significant advantage over3824.99.93.30.
π― 4. 3824.99.93.30 ββ Other Mixtures of Acyclic Alcohols
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 30.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 30.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3824.99.93.30 β FOOTNOTE:301 |
π Explanation:
- Applies if the mixture does not fit93.20(e.g., contains lower carbon alcohols or other impurities). - High Risk: The 25% surtax makes this costly.
β οΈ 2905.16 & 3824.99 (General)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Tax Status | Error (Failed to retrieve) |
| Implication | These codes are too broad or lack specific USITC tariff lines in the provided data. Do not use without manual customs broker verification. High risk of clearance delay. |
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Essential Documents)
| Document | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β MSDS (Safety Data Sheet) | βοΈ | Must specify chemical composition, carbon chain length (C12+?), and whether it is a surfactant. |
| β COA (Certificate of Analysis) | βοΈ | Laboratory analysis proving alcohol content and mixture ratio. |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Detailed description: "Industrial High Carbon Alcohol Mixture, C12-C15, Non-ionic Surfactant" or "Chemical Intermediate". |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly state: "Chemical Mixture" or "Surfactant Raw Material". Avoid vague terms like "Oil". |
| β Bill of Lading | βοΈ | Consistent with invoice and COA. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Rules)
π₯ βComposition Dictates Code, Surfactant Status Matters!β
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product is C12+ Alcohol Mixture for Chemical Synthesis | 3824.99.93.20 |
2905.16 |
Clearance delay (Error) |
| Product is C12+ Alcohol Mixture with other impurities | 3824.99.93.30 |
3824.99.93.20 |
Underpayment (25% surtax penalty) |
| Product is Formulated Surfactant (Aromatic) | 3402.42.10.00 |
3824.99.93.30 |
Overpayment (4% vs 5% base, but similar total) |
| Product is Formulated Surfactant (Non-Aromatic) | 3402.49.90.00 |
3824.99.93.30 |
Savings! (0% vs 30%) |
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label | Provide original formula agreement to prove composition. |
| Mixed Container | Ensure HS Code matches the specific alcohol mixture, not just "Chemicals". |
| Uncertain Composition | Do not self-classify. Hire a licensed customs broker to verify 3824.99.93.20 vs 3824.99.93.30. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3824.99.93.20 or 3402.49.90.00 |
0% - 5% (if eligible) | TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) | Critical: TSCA certification required before import. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3824.99 or 3402 |
6.5% - 8% | REACH Registration | No additional tariffs. |
| π¨π³ China | 3824.99 or 3402 |
5% - 10% | N/A | Low import tariff, but environmental taxes may apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex due to Section 301 tariffs and TSCA regulations. - EU is straightforward but requires REACH compliance. - Optimal Strategy for USA: Aim for3824.99.93.20(5% total) or3402.49.90.00(0% total) if legally defensible. Avoid3824.99.93.30(30%) and3402.42.10.00(29%) if possible.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying as 2905.16 (Single Alcohol)
π Consequence: Customs Error. "Mixture" does not fit single alcohol code. Clearance halted.
β Mistake 2: Classifying as 3824.99.93.30 when it fits 3824.99.93.20
π Consequence: Overpayment. You pay 30% instead of 5%. Loss of profit.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring TSCA (US)
π Consequence: Detention. Chemicals under TSCA require certification. No certificate = No entry.
β Correct Action:
"High Carbon Alcohol Mixture (C12-C15), Industrial Grade, Non-Surfactant, For Surfactant Synthesis"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "C12+ Only? Go to .93.20 (5%). Other Mixtures? .93.30 (30%). Surfactant? .49.90 (0%)!"
πΉ "TSCA First, HS Code Second, Tariff Third."
π Pro Tip:
If your product is 100% C12+ Acyclic Alcohols, fight for 3824.99.93.20 (5% total).
If it is a Surfactant, fight for 3402.49.90.00 (0% total).
Avoid 3824.99.93.30 (30%) and 3402.42.10.00 (29%) unless your product composition specifically demands it.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a Customs Broker to verify TSCA status and exact HS Code.
π Optimize Your Supply Chain by choosing the lowest tariff class that fits your productβs true nature.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every Percent of Tax Matters!
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.