Modified Polyethylene Petroleum Resin
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3901905501 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3807000000 | 35.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3911200000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3901909000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3911902500 | 41.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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π§ͺ Modified Polyethylene Petroleum Resin: HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis
π HS Code Reference & Customs Strategy | Professional Grade Clearance Guide
Product: Modified Polyethylene Petroleum Resin
Key Components: Polyethylene (Ethylene Polymer), Petroleum Resin, Modified/Altered State
This product represents a complex chemical mixture. The classification hinges on whether it is viewed primarily as an ethylene polymer (Chapter 39) or a petroleum resin preparation (Chapter 38/39). Below is the detailed breakdown based on the provided data.
β οΈ Critical Warning:
This product is subject to high punitive tariffs (Section 301 & IEEPA) when imported into the United States from China. Total effective tax rates range from 35.1% to 41.5%. Misclassification can lead to severe penalties and delays.
π¦ 1. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Based on the provided data, there are 5 potential HS Codes. The choice depends on the precise chemical structure and regulatory interpretation of "Modified."
| HS Code | Product Description | Matching Logic (Summary) | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901.90.55.01 | Other Polyethylene (Primary Shape) | "Polyethylene" matches "Ethylene Polymer." "Modified resin" fits the logic of "Ethylene Copolymers (Primary Shape)." No material conflict. | 41.5% |
| 3807.00.00.00 | Petroleum Resins & Pitch | "Petroleum Resin" falls under preparations based on rosin/resin acids/plant asphalt. "Polyethylene modified" fits the chemical preparation form. | 35.1% |
| 3911.20.00.00 | Petroleum Resins (Chapter 39) | Material matches "Petroleum Resin" definition under Chapter 39. No shape or use conflict. | 41.5% |
| 3901.90.90.00 | Other Polyethylene (Primary Shape) | Material is Polyethylene (Ethylene Polymer). Shape is Primary (Resin/Polymer). Fits "Other" category for Ethylene Polymers. | 41.5% |
| 3911.90.25.00 | Other Petroleum Resins (Modified Aromatic) | Material is "Petroleum Resin," specifically "Modified Aromatic." Fully matches material and chemical structure requirements. | 41.1% |
π Key Distinction:
- Codes 3901 & 3911 treat the product primarily as a Polymer/Resin (Chapter 39).
- Code 3807 treats it as a Chemical Preparation/Resin (Chapter 38).
- Risk: If classified as 3807, the base tariff is lower (0.1%), but the total tax is still high due toιε taxes. If classified under 39xx, the base tariff is higher (6.1%-6.5%).
π° 2. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Tax Clauses)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3901.90.55.01 & 3901.90.90.00 & 3911.20.00.00
Category: Ethylene Polymers / Petroleum Resins (High Base Tariff)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +25.0% (USITC Footnote) |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10.0% (Targeting China/HK products, effective Nov 10, 2025) |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Denied |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3901.90.55.00 β FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- The 6.5% base tariff reflects the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for these polymers/resins.
- The +25% is the standard Section 301 tariff for Chinese goods in this category.
- The +10% is the new IEEPA surcharge added in late 2025.
- Total: 41.5%. This is a high-cost item for US importers.
π― 2. 3911.90.25.00
Category: Modified Petroleum Resins
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.1% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 41.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Denied |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3911.90.25.00 β FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- Slightly lower base rate (6.1%) due to specific subheading for "Modified Aromatic" resins.
- Total tax is 41.1%, still extremely high.
π― 3. 3807.00.00.00
Category: Petroleum Resins & Pitch (Preparation)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.1% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Additional Tariff | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Tax Rate | 35.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Denied |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3807.00.00.00 β FOOTNOTE |
π Explanation:
- Lowest Total Tax Rate (35.1%) among the options.
- High Risk: Customs may challenge this classification if the product is predominantly polyethylene (a polymer) rather than a resin preparation. If challenged, the rate jumps to 41.5%.
- Strategy: Only use this code if your product is predominantly a chemical preparation (e.g., mixed with other binders, solvents, or additives) and not a pure polymer blend.
π οΈ 3. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Must detail % of Polyethylene vs. Petroleum Resin. |
| β Chemical Composition Analysis | βοΈ | SDS (Safety Data Sheet) and COA (Certificate of Analysis) are critical. |
| β Product Photos (Labeled) | βοΈ | Show raw form (pellets, powder, liquid) and packaging. |
| β Third-Party Lab Report | βοΈ | Confirm "Modified" nature: Is it physically blended or chemically grafted? |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Modified Polyethylene Petroleum Resin" + HS Code. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Essential for proving CN origin (for tariff calculation). |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail net/gross weight, number of packages. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Material Dictates Code, Form Dictates Rate, Modify Carefully!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Polyethylene Blend | 3901.90.55.00 or 3901.90.90.00 |
Mislabel as "Petroleum Resin" β Risk of 41.5% if audited. |
| Chemical Preparation/Resin | 3807.00.00.00 |
Mislabel as "Polymer" β Risk of 41.5%. |
| Modified Aromatic Resin | 3911.90.25.00 |
Generic "Resin" β Risk of misclassification. |
| Any of the above | Declare Full Composition | Hiding "Polyethylene" content β Customs seizure. |
π Critical Point:
- If the product is >50% Polyethylene, it is likely Chapter 39.
- If it is a chemical mixture/preparation where petroleum resin is the primary functional component, Chapter 38 might apply, but it is high-risk.
β 3. Special Handling Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Resin | Provide client order + formulation sheet. Avoid "generic" descriptions. |
| Hybrid Material (Polymer + Resin) | If itβs a copolymer or grafted, itβs usually 3901 or 3911. Do not use 3807 unless itβs a simple mix. |
| Used/Recycled Material | Additional environmental regulations may apply. Declare as "Recycled" if applicable. |
| Sample vs. Bulk | Samples are subject to the same taxes. Do not use "gift" or "sample" to avoid taxes. |
π 4. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tax Rate (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3901.90.55.00 / 3807.00.00.00 |
35.1% - 41.5% | None required for clearance, but SDS needed | Highest tax burden due to Section 301 + IEEPA. |
| π¨π³ China | 3901.90.55.00 / 3807.00.00.00 |
0% - 6.5% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower tax, but export restrictions may apply. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3901.90.90 / 3807.00.00 |
0% - 6.5% | REACH Registration | No punitive tariffs, but REACH compliance is strict. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3901.90.90 / 3807.00.00 |
0% - 6.5% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3901.90.90 / 3807.00.00 |
0% - 6.5% | PSE (if electrical) | Low tariffs, but strict safety standards. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for this product due to 35.1%-41.5% effective tariffs.
- EU/UK/Japan are more cost-effective, but REACH (EU) compliance is a major hurdle for chemical products.
π 5. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Classifying as 3807 without proof of "chemical preparation."
π Consequence: Customs may reassess as 3901/3911 β 6.4% higher tax + penalties.
β Mistake 2: Under-declaring "Polyethylene" content.
π Consequence: Customs lab tests will reveal true composition β Back taxes + fines.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring IEEPA 10% surcharge.
π Consequence: Incorrect tax calculation β Payment rejection at port.
β Mistake 4: Using "Resin" as a generic term without specifying "Petroleum" or "Polyethylene."
π Consequence: Customs query β Delays (2-4 weeks) for clarification.
β Correct Practice:
"Modified Polyethylene Petroleum Resin, Primary Shape, Contains X% Polyethylene, Y% Petroleum Resin, Z% Additives. For Use in [Application]."
π― 6. Final Recommendations: Professional Clearance, Cost Optimization
π― Remember Mnemonic:
πΉ "Polyethylene = Chapter 39 (41.5%), Petroleum Resin Prep = Chapter 38 (35.1%). Prove the chemistry!"
πΉ "HS Code determines tax, tax determines profit. One mistake, thousands lost!"
π Pro Tip:
- If importing into the USA, consider Advance Rulings from CBP to lock in the HS Code.
- For EU/UK, ensure REACH Registration is complete before shipment.
- Consult a Customs Broker to review your SDS and formulation sheet before filing.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact your Customs Broker + Provide SDS & COA + Apply for Pre-Ruling if possible.
π Smooth Clearance, Efficient Export, Maximized Profit!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cent of Tax is Calculated Precisely!
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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.