Leather Waterproofing Agent
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3809931000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3809935000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3403915000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3403115000 | 36.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3914006000 | 38.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𧴠Leather Waterproofing Agent (Chemical Preparations for Leather)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know "Leather Waterproofing Agent"?
Leather waterproofing agents are specialized chemical preparations used in the leather industry to enhance water resistance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. In international trade, these agents are primarily classified based on their chemical composition and intended function. They generally fall into two categories:
1. Specific Chemical Preparations (Chapter 38): Substances specifically designed for leather treatment, such as waterproofing agents, dye carriers, and finishing agents. 2. Material Handling Agents (Chapter 34): Oils, greases, or other preparations for treating hides, skins, or leather that do not have a more specific classification elsewhere. 3. Polymer-based Preparations (Chapter 39): If the product is primarily a polymer or resin formulation not covered by specific chemical headings, it may fall under residual categories.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is a specific chemical mixture for leather waterproofing/finishing β Classified under Chapter 38 or Chapter 34.
- If the product is an oily/greasy preparation β Classified under 3403.
- If the product is a polymer/resin-based agent not specifically covered elsewhere β Classified under Chapter 39 (Residual).
- Crucial Note: The presence of specific "waterproofing" functionality for leather strongly points towards 3809 or 3403, while ambiguous chemical compositions may default to 3914.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Primary Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
3809.93.10.00 |
Finishing agents for the leather industry, suitable for leather waterproofing | Specific leather waterproofing agents, chemical finishes | Chemical compounds for leather treatment |
3809.93.50.00 |
Finishing agents, dye carriers, and similar preparations for leather or similar industries, suitable for leather waterproofing | Leather waterproofing, dye carriers, finishing mixtures | Chemical mixtures for leather processing |
3403.91.50.00 |
Chemical preparations for treating materials, suitable for leather waterproofing, no material conflict | General chemical preparations for material/leather treatment | Chemical preparations not elsewhere specified |
3403.11.50.00 |
Oily or greasy chemical preparations for leather treatment, suitable for leather waterproofing | Oils, greases, or wax-based waterproofing agents | Oils, greases, waxes for leather |
3914.00.60.00 |
Polymer-based or related chemical preparations, as a residual category, suitable for leather waterproofing | Polymer/resin-based waterproofing agents not covered by specific headings | Polymers, resins, or synthetic compounds |
π Key Reminders:
- Chapter 38 (3809) is the most specific for "leather finishing agents." If the product is explicitly marketed as a "leather finishing agent" or "waterproofing agent for leather," this is the primary choice. - Chapter 34 (3403) applies if the product is essentially an oil or grease used for leather treatment. - Chapter 39 (3914) is a residual category. It should only be used if the product is a polymer-based agent that does not fit the specific definitions of Chapters 38 or 34. Misclassification here can lead to disputes.
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: From 2025-11-10 onwards (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3809.93.10.00 ββ Finishing Agents for Leather Industry (Waterproofing)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% (Under USITC Footnote for Section 301) |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10% (Under specific executive orders for Chinese goods) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis applies to Section 301 goods) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3809.93.10.00 β Section 301: +25% β EO 122: +10% |
π Explanation:
- The 6.5% base rate is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. - The +25% USITC tariff is under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, targeting specific Chinese chemical products. - The +10% 122 Section tariff is an additional levy on certain Chinese imports. - Total 41.5% is a high tariff, requiring strict compliance and cost pre-assessment.
π― 2. 3809.93.50.00 ββ Finishing Agents, Dye Carriers, etc. for Leather (Waterproofing)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.0% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3809.93.50.00 β Section 301: +25% β EO 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Slightly lower base rate (6.0%) compared to3809.93.10.00(6.5%). - Same surcharges apply. This code is used for broader "finishing agents" including dye carriers.
π― 3. 3403.91.50.00 ββ Chemical Preparations for Material Treatment (Waterproofing)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3403.91.50.00 β Section 301: +25% β EO 122: +10% |
π Note:
- This code is for "chemical preparations for treating materials" not elsewhere specified. It applies if the product is a general chemical waterproofing agent for leather but doesn't fit the specific "finishing agent" definition of Chapter 38.
π― 4. 3403.11.50.00 ββ Oily/Greasy Preparations for Leather (Waterproofing)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 1.4% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 36.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 36.4% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3403.11.50.00 β Section 301: +25% β EO 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Lowest total tariff (36.4%) among the options due to a very low base rate (1.4%). - Applicable ONLY if the product is primarily an oil, grease, or wax. If it is a synthetic chemical, this classification may be contested.
π― 5. 3914.00.60.00 ββ Polymer-Based Preparations (Residual Category)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| USITC Additional Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Section Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.9% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3914.00.60.00 β Section 301: +25% β EO 122: +10% |
π Note:
- Moderate total tariff (38.9%). - Use only as a fallback if the product is a polymer-based agent not covered by Chapters 38 or 34. - Risk of misclassification if the product is clearly a leather-finishing agent (Chapter 38).
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Combat Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (All or Nothing)
| Document | Mandatory? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail chemical composition, active ingredients, and intended use (e.g., "Leather Waterproofing Agent"). |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Crucial for chemical products. Must classify hazards and components correctly. |
| β Product Photos (Labeled) | βοΈ | Clear images of the packaging, label, and product form (liquid, powder, etc.). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must accurately describe the product as "Leather Waterproofing Agent" and specify the HS Code. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail net/gross weights and packaging materials. |
| β Country of Origin Certificate | βοΈ | If claiming preferential rates (not applicable here for China to US), but needed for verification. |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | Proof of chemical composition, especially if contested. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ βOil is 3403, Finish is 3809, Polymer is 3914, Base Rate Determines Savings!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Finishing Agent (e.g., fluorocarbon-based) | 3809.93.10.00 or 3809.93.50.00 |
Misclassified as 3403 β Risk of penalty |
| Oily/Greasy Agent (e.g., wax/oil emulsion) | 3403.11.50.00 |
Misclassified as 3809 β Higher base rate (6.5% vs 1.4%) |
| Polymer/Resin Agent (generic) | 3914.00.60.00 |
Misclassified as 3809 β If not a specific "finishing agent," it may be correct, but if it is, 3809 is more specific. |
| General Chemical Prep | 3403.91.50.00 |
Used only if no specific leather category fits. |
π‘ Optimization Tip:
- If your product is an oil-based waterproofing agent,3403.11.50.00offers the lowest total tariff (36.4%). Ensure the product formulation supports this classification. - If it is a specialized chemical finishing agent,3809is the correct and most specific code, despite the higher base rate.
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Agent | Provide client order + formulation sheet. Avoid generic terms like "Chemical Stuff." |
| Mixed Packaging | Declare as a single product. Do not split packaging components into separate HS codes. |
| Unclear Composition | If chemical composition is ambiguous, consider Advance Ruling to avoid post-clearance adjustments. |
| Chemical Hazards | Ensure SDS is compliant with US DOT/OSHA standards to prevent rejection at entry. |
π V. Global Market Customs Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Total Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3809.93.10.00 / 3403.11.50.00 |
36.4% - 41.5% | SDS, DOT Compliance | High surcharges due to Section 301 & 122 |
| π¨π³ China | 3809.93.10.00 / 3403.11.50.00 |
~6.5% / ~1.4% | CCC (if applicable) | No additional surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3809.93.10.00 / 3403.11.50.00 |
~6.5% / ~1.4% | REACH, CLP | No Section 301 equivalent |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3809.93.10.00 / 3403.11.50.00 |
~5-10% | AICIS Registration | No major surcharges |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3809.93.10.00 / 3403.11.50.00 |
~5-10% | JIS Standards | No major surcharges |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market due to additional tariffs. - China Origin to USA incurs significant added costs. - Consider supply chain diversification (e.g., manufacturing in Vietnam, India) if possible to mitigate US tariffs.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Classifying a chemical finishing agent as 3403.11.50.00 (Oil/Grease)
π Consequence: If the product is not primarily oil/grease, Customs may reclassify it to 3809, leading to higher base rates and potential penalties for misdeclaration.
β Error 2: Classifying an oil-based agent as 3809.93.10.00
π Consequence: You pay a higher base rate (6.5% vs 1.4%). You lose 5.1% x CIF in unnecessary taxes.
β Error 3: Using vague descriptions like "Chemical for Leather"
π Consequence: Customs cannot determine the correct chapter, leading to delays, inspections, or demurrage fees.
β Error 4: Ignoring SDS Requirements
π Consequence: Chemical products without proper SDS will be rejected at US border, causing returns or destruction.
β Correct Practice:
"Leather Waterproofing Agent, Chemical Preparation, Based on [Fluorocarbon/Oil/Polymer], Model XYZ, SDS Available, Intended for [Specific Leather Type]"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time & Money!
π― Remember the Mnemonics:
πΉ "Oil is Cheap (36.4%), Finish is Specific (41.0-41.5%), Polymer is Middle (38.9%)."
πΉ "HS Code Chooser, Tax Rate Changer, Declaration Precision Saves Dollars."
π Pro Tip:
If your product can be legally classified as an oil-based preparation (3403.11.50.00), do so to save 5.1% in tariffs compared to 3809. However, ensure the formulation supports this.
If it is a specialized chemical, stick to 3809 for accuracy and compliance.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult a licensed customs broker + Provide detailed SDS + Apply for Advance Ruling if unsure.
π Ensure your Leather Waterproofing Agent clears US customs smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Every cent of your cost deserves precise calculation!
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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.