Inorganic Agricultural Anti freeze De icing Agent
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2827100000 | 37.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2827200000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π§ Inorganic Agricultural Anti-freeze & De-icing Agents
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Strategy
π Part I: Product Definition & Classification: What exactly is "Inorganic Anti-freeze"?
Inorganic Agricultural Anti-freeze and De-icing agents are chemical compounds used to lower the freezing point of water in agricultural settings (protecting crops, pipes, or irrigation systems) and for de-icing purposes (roads, equipment, or infrastructure). Unlike organic antifreezes (like ethylene or propylene glycol), these are inorganic salts.
The provided data highlights two primary inorganic chlorides commonly used in this context:
- Calcium Chloride (CaClβ): A highly effective, fast-acting de-icer and dust control agent. It is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air) and releases heat upon dissolving, making it superior for freezing temperatures.
- Ammonium Chloride (NHβCl): Often used in specific industrial or agricultural applications, sometimes as a component in de-icing mixtures or as a fertilizer/nutrient supplement in certain contexts, though less common as a pure de-icer compared to Calcium Chloride.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- If the product is Ammonium Chloride β It falls under 2827.10.00.00.
- If the product is Calcium Chloride β It falls under 2827.20.00.00.
- Do not confuse these with organic glycols (which fall under Chapter 29) or prepared mixtures that might fall under Chapter 38 (if significantly mixed with other non-primary ingredients). The data provided strictly refers to the pure inorganic chemical forms.
π¦ Part II: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Reference)
Based on the provided <DATA>, here is the exact classification for the inorganic agricultural anti-freeze/de-icing agents:
| HS Code | Product Description | Typical Agricultural/De-icing Use | Primary Chemical Nature |
|---|---|---|---|
2827.10.00.00 |
Ammonium Chloride | Agricultural soil amendment, specialized de-icing mixtures, flux in welding (industrial side-use). | Inorganic Salt (Nitrogen/Chlorine) |
2827.20.00.00 |
Calcium Chloride | Most common de-icer for roads/parking lots; dust control on agricultural roads; livestock mineral supplement; concrete accelerator. | Inorganic Salt (Calcium/Chlorine) |
π Key Reminder:
- Both products belong to Chapter 28: Inorganic Chemicals; Organic or Inorganic Compounds of Precious Metals... - Specifically, Heading 2827: Chlorides, chloride oxides and chloride hydroxides; bromides and bromide oxides; iodides and iodide oxides. - The distinction lies entirely in the cation: Ammonium (NHββΊ) vs. Calcium (CaΒ²βΊ).
π° Part III: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current as per provided data
π― 1. 2827.10.00.00 β Ammonium Chloride
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Free from base duties) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | 0.0% (No additional tariff applied for this specific HS code in the provided data) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0 Duty |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Likely Yes (if value < $800, though agricultural chemicals may have special entry requirements) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:2827.10.00.00 β No Section 301 footnote listed in data. |
π Interpretation:
- Ammonium Chloride enjoys a 0% tariff rate for Chinese origin under the provided data.
- This makes it a cost-effective option for importers compared to many other chemical classes.
- Caution: While tariffs are 0%, ensure the product is not misclassified as a "fertilizer" under Chapter 31 if it is intended primarily for soil amendment, as Chapter 31 may have different rules. However, for de-icing or pure chemical trade, 2827.10 is correct.
π― 2. 2827.20.00.00 β Calcium Chloride
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (Free from base duties) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +25.0% (Additional tariff applied for this HS code) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 25.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25% = 25% Duty |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Section 301 goods often excluded or subject to higher scrutiny; verify with CBP) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:2827.20.00.00 β Section 301 Footnote (Commonly associated with chemical products from China) |
π Interpretation:
- Calcium Chloride, despite a 0% base rate, incurs a 25% additional tariff due to US-China trade tensions (Section 301).
- This is a significant cost factor. For every $10,000 of CIF value, you pay $2,500 in duties.
- This is a common scenario where a product has low "base" tariffs but high "effective" tariffs due to trade policies.
π οΈ Part IV: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Essential Documentation Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Required? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Calcium Chloride, Technical Grade" or "Ammonium Chloride, Industrial Grade." Include purity (e.g., β₯95%). |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Critical. Classify as hazardous if necessary. For de-icers, SDS helps CBP determine proper handling and any environmental restrictions. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must specify HS Code (2827.10 or 2827.20) and clearly describe the product as "Inorganic Salt for De-icing/Agricultural Use." Avoid vague terms like "White Powder." |
| β Certificate of Analysis (COA) | βοΈ | Proves chemical composition. CBP may require this to distinguish from similar-looking fertilizers or industrial chemicals. |
| β Bill of Lading / Air Waybill | βοΈ | Standard shipping documents. |
| β EPA Registration (if applicable) | β οΈ Conditional | If marketed as a "pesticide" or "disinfectant" in addition to de-icing, EPA registration may be needed. For pure de-icing, usually not required, but check if additives are present. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βPure Chemicals, Chapter 28; Mixtures, Chapter 38; Fertilizers, Chapter 31.β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Declaration | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Calcium Chloride for De-icing | 2827.20.00.00 - Calcium Chloride, Technical Grade |
"De-icing Agent" (Vague) | CBP may question classification; possible delay. |
| Calcium Chloride mixed with sand/sawdust | Potentially 3824.99 or 2517 (if predominantly non-chemical) |
2827.20.00.00 |
Misclassification Risk! If mixed, it may no longer be "pure" inorganic compound. |
| Ammonium Chloride used as Fertilizer | 3102.80 (Urea blends, etc.) vs 2827.10 |
2827.10.00.00 |
High Risk. If used as fertilizer, Chapter 31 may apply, which could have different duties and regulatory requirements. |
| Calcium Chloride for Dust Control | 2827.20.00.00 |
"Agricultural Chemical" (Vague) | CBP may misclassify as pesticide or fertilizer, leading to penalties. |
π Note: The description must match the chemical nature, not just the end-use. "De-icing agent" is a use; "Calcium Chloride" is the substance. Always declare the substance.
β 3. Special Cases & Environmental Compliance
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Liquid vs. Solid Form | Both 2827.10 and 2827.20 can apply to solutions if the primary characteristic is the salt. However, solid granules/crystals are standard for de-icing. If it's a solution, ensure the concentration is declared. |
| Agricultural Use (Soil Amendment) | If Ammonium Chloride is sold as a nitrogen source, CBP might expect Chapter 31. Defense: Provide invoices and marketing materials showing it is sold for de-icing or industrial chemical use, not primarily as fertilizer, to justify Chapter 28. |
| Environmental Impact | Calcium Chloride is corrosive to metals and can affect soil salinity. Ensure packaging is compatible (plastic-lined containers). CBP may inspect for proper hazardous labeling if deemed hazardous under DOT regulations (49 CFR). |
| Origin Marking | Must clearly state "Made in China" on the product and packaging to comply with Section 301 and general US import laws. |
π Part V: Global Market Comparison (2026 Context)
| Market | HS Code | Base Duty | Additional Tariffs (China) | Total Effective Duty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 2827.10.00.00 |
0% | 0% | 0% | Advantageous for Ammonium Chloride. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 2827.20.00.00 |
0% | 25% | 25% | High cost for Calcium Chloride due to Section 301. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 2827.10 / 2827.20 |
0% - 2.7% | None (usually) | 0% - 2.7% | Generally favorable; no equivalent to US Section 301. |
| π¨π³ China | 2827.10 / 2827.20 |
0% - 5% | N/A | 0% - 5% | Import duties into China may vary; focus on domestic production. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex market due to the 25% surcharge on Calcium Chloride.
- Ammonium Chloride (2827.10) is tariff-free into the US, making it a competitive choice for de-icing/fertilizer blends if chemically pure.
- European Union generally offers lower barriers for these chemicals, making it a better alternative for Calcium Chloride imports if US market is too costly.
π Part VI: Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "De-icing Agent" without specifying the chemical.
π Result: CBP assigns a generic code (e.g., 3824) which may have higher duties or additional regulatory scrutiny (EPA/FDA).
β Mistake 2: Assuming all Chlorides are taxed the same.
π Result: Missing the 0% vs. 25% difference between Ammonium (2827.10) and Calcium (2827.20). This can lead to underpayment of duties and penalties.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the "Fertilizer" classification risk for Ammonium Chloride.
π Result: If CBP determines the product is primarily a fertilizer, they may reclassify to Chapter 31, which could trigger different tax rates, quotas, or environmental regulations.
β Correct Approach:
"Declare the Chemistry, Not Just the Use."
Example:"Calcium Chloride, Anhydrous, Technical Grade, for De-Icing, HS 2827.20.00.00"
π― Part VII: Conclusion: Smart Sourcing & Clearance
π― Remember the Strategy:
πΉ Ammonium Chloride = 0% Duty (USA) β Great for cost-sensitive de-icing if chemical properties allow.
πΉ Calcium Chloride = 25% Duty (USA) β High cost due to trade wars; consider sourcing from Vietnam, Mexico, or other non-China origins if possible to avoid Section 301.
πΉ Always provide SDS, COA, and clear chemical descriptions.
πΉ Verify if the product is considered a fertilizer; if so, consult a customs broker about Chapter 31 vs. Chapter 28.
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing Calcium Chloride and the 25% duty is prohibitive:
1. Check for Exclusions: Are there specific HTS exclusions for Section 301 that might apply? (Rare for basic chemicals).
2. Third-Country Sourcing: Source from Vietnam, Thailand, or Mexico where possible to avoid Section 301 tariffs (ensure substantial transformation occurs).
3. Tariff Engineering: Can you blend it in a way that changes the classification? (Consult a trade attorney; risky if not done properly).
π£ Action Plan:
π For Imports: Confirm HS Code with your customs broker using SDS and COA.
π For Cost Savings: If importing Calcium Chloride, evaluate non-China origin suppliers to save 25%. If importing Ammonium Chloride, capitalize on the 0% duty.
πΌ Precision in Classification Saves Thousands!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your Duty Cost is Directly Linked to Your HS Code Choice!
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.