Methyl Chloroform Based Cleaner
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3814005090 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3814005010 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π§ͺ Methyl Chloroform Based Cleaner & Organic Solvents
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Methyl Chloroform Based Cleaner"?
In international trade, chemical cleaners and solvents are strictly regulated due to environmental (Ozone Depletion Potential) and health safety concerns. The product "Methyl Chloroform Based Cleaner" falls under Chapter 38: Residual Products of Various Industries.
It is critical to distinguish between two specific categories based on chemical composition:
- Specific Hazardous Composition (1,1,1-Trichloroethane):
Cleaners or solvents explicitly containing Methyl Chloroform (also known as 1,1,1-trichloroethane). This substance is heavily regulated globally. - General Organic Composite Solvents:
Organic composite solvents and thinners not elsewhere specified or included (N.E.S.I.), which do not contain the specific restricted chemicals listed above.
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- If the product contains Methyl Chloroform (1,1,1-trichloro-ethane) β It MUST be classified under 3814.00.50.10.
- If it is a general organic solvent/thinner with no specific restriction mentioned in the HS description β It falls under 3814.00.50.90.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Cross-Reference)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Contains Methyl Chloroform? |
|---|---|---|---|
3814.00.50.10 |
Organic composite solvents and thinners; prepared paint or varnish removers: Other Containing methyl chloroform (1,1,1-trichloro- ethane) or carbon tetrachloride | Industrial degreasers, metal cleaners, or paint removers explicitly formulated with 1,1,1-trichloroethane | β YES |
3814.00.50.90 |
Organic composite solvents and thinners, not elsewhere specified or included; prepared paint or varnish removers: Other Other | General-purpose organic solvents, thinners, or removers that do NOT contain the specific restricted chemicals listed in the 10 subheading | β NO |
π Key Reminder:
- The term "Methyl Chloroform" is synonymous with 1,1,1-Trichloroethane.
- Customs officers will scrutinize the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the presence of this chemical. If it is present, using3814.00.50.90is a misclassification error.
- If the product is a generic "organic solvent" blend without specified hazardous components, it defaults to3814.00.50.90.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (for subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3814.00.50.90 ββ General Organic Composite Solvents/Thinners
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 6.0% (ad valorem) |
| Retaliatory/Section 301 Surcharge | 25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 31.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 31% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No (denied for chemical solvents under these codes) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3814.00.50.90 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Explanation:
- The 6.0% base duty is the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for general chemical solvents.
- The 25.0% additional tariff is applied under U.S. Trade Law Section 301 against Chinese-origin goods.
- Total Cost Impact: You pay 31% of the CIF value in duties alone. This is a significant cost factor for solvent-based products.
π― 2. 3814.00.50.10 ββ Solvents/Removers Containing Methyl Chloroform
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 6.0% (ad valorem) |
| Retaliatory/Section 301 Surcharge | 25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 31.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 31% |
| De Minimis Exemption Available? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3814.00.50.10 β Section 301 Footnote |
π Note:
- Despite being a more specifically regulated hazardous substance, the tariff rate structure is identical to the general solvent category in this dataset.
- Environmental Compliance: In addition to tariffs, ensure your product complies with EPA regulations and Montreal Protocol restrictions regarding Methyl Chloroform. While the tariff is 31%, the regulatory hurdle is significantly higher.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Crucial. Must clearly state the percentage of Methyl Chloroform (1,1,1-Trichloroethane) or confirm its absence. |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Detailed chemical composition, CAS numbers, and intended use. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly describe the product as "Organic Solvent" or "Paint Remover" and specify HS Code. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Weight and dimensions. Note: Liquids often require UN packaging compliance. |
| β Customs Declaration Statement | βοΈ | Confirm origin and value. |
β 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Check the SDS, Identify the Chemical, Pick the Code, Avoid the Penalty!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Error to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Product contains 1,1,1-Trichloroethane | Use 3814.00.50.10 |
Misdeclaring as 3814.00.50.90 β Leads to penalties for misclassification. |
| Product is generic organic solvent | Use 3814.00.50.90 |
Misdeclaring as 3814.00.50.10 β Unnecessary regulatory scrutiny if chemical is absent. |
| Product is water-based cleaner | NOT Applicable | Do not use Chapter 38 codes for water-based products; check Chapter 34 or 39. |
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Chemicals | If the product contains both Methyl Chloroform and other solvents, it MUST be classified under 3814.00.50.10. Specificity wins. |
| Paint Removers | If the primary use is removing paint/varnish, it still falls under Chapter 38. Ensure the description highlights "Prepared Paint or Varnish Removers" if applicable. |
| Environmental Regulations | Methyl Chloroform is an ozone-depleting substance. Ensure you have the necessary EPA permits or exemptions for import, separate from customs duties. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3814.00.50.10 or .90 |
31% (6% Base + 25% Surcharge) | Strict EPA/Montreal Protocol compliance required. |
| π¨π³ China | 3814.00.50.90 |
~6-10% | Varies by specific chemical. Import licenses may be needed for hazardous chemicals. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3814.00.50.90 |
6.5% | REACH Registration required. Methyl Chloroform may be banned/restricted under EU law. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3814.00.50.90 |
6.0% | Industrial Safety and Health Act compliance needed. |
π Conclusion:
- The USA imposes a high total tariff of 31% on these goods from China.
- Chemical Composition is King: The presence of Methyl Chloroform dictates the specific HS Code subheading (.10vs.90), even if the tariff rate is the same in this dataset.
- Regulatory Risk: Beyond tariffs, ensure environmental compliance (EPA/Montreal Protocol) for Methyl Chloroform-based products.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Ignoring the SDS and assuming all solvents are the same.
π Consequence: Misclassification. If you declare a Methyl Chloroform product as 3814.00.50.90, you risk fines for incorrect classification and potential seizure for violating environmental import rules.
β Error 2: Using generic descriptions like "Cleaner" without specifying "Organic Solvent" or "Paint Remover".
π Consequence: Customs may question the product, leading to delays and additional inspections.
β Error 3: Assuming De Minimis (Section 321) applies.
π Consequence: Chemicals under these HS codes are generally not eligible for de minimis entry. All shipments are subject to full duty calculation.
β Correct Approach:
"Organic Solvent Cleaner, 5 Gallon Drum, CAS# 79-01-6 (if containing Methyl Chloroform), for industrial degreasing, HS Code 3814.00.50.10/90, CIF Value $XXXX."
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money and Time
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Check SDS, Find the Chloroform, Pick .10 or .90, Pay the 31%, Stay Compliant!"
πΉ "HS Code Determines Duty, Chemical Composition Determines Legality, Documentation Determines Speed!"
π Pro Tip:
If you are importing large volumes, consider Advance Rulings from CBP to confirm the HS Code and tax liability before shipping. This prevents unexpected duties and clearance delays.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your freight forwarder with the SDS and Product Specifications.
π Ensure your Commercial Invoice clearly states the HS Code and Country of Origin.
β¨ Professional clearance starts with accurate classification!
πΌ Your profit margin depends on precise duty 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.