Petroleum Jelly
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3304995000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2712100000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2712902000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3304991000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
𧴠Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline / Vicks VapoRub Base)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional-Level Customs Strategy
π I. Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Petroleum Jelly"?
Petroleum Jelly, commonly known as Vaseline, is a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily derived from petroleum. It is widely used for skin protection, lubrication, and cosmetic applications. In international trade, its classification depends heavily on: 1. Packaging type: Bulk (industrial/commercial) vs. Retail (consumer). 2. End-use: Industrial lubricant vs. Cosmetic/Skincare product.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- Bulk/Industrial Use: Not intended for direct consumer retail sale β Classified under Chapter 27 (Mineral Fuels/Oils).
- Retail/Cosmetic Use: Packaged for direct consumer use, marketed for skincare/beauty β Classified under Chapter 33 (Essential Oils & Cosmetics).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Packaging Type |
|---|---|---|---|
2712.10.00.00 |
Petroleum Jelly, not put up for retail sale; Material & use match | Industrial lubricants, bulk storage, manufacturing feedstock | β Bulk/Non-retail |
2712.90.20.00 |
Petroleum Jelly, name & classification fully match | Generic petroleum jelly with standard composition, not specifically for cosmetics | β Bulk/Non-retail |
3304.99.10.00 |
Retail-packaged Petroleum Jelly; Material & use consistent | Small jars/tubes sold in pharmacies/beauty stores for personal care | β Retail |
3304.99.50.00 |
Petroleum Jelly as a skin care preparation; Fits beauty/cosmetic category | Branded skincare products (e.g., Vaseline Intensive Care), marketed for aesthetic/skincare benefits | β Retail |
π Critical Reminder:
- If the product is not packaged for direct consumer sale (e.g., 5kg buckets for factories), it must be classified under 2712.xxxx.
- If it is packaged for retail and marketed for skin care/beauty, it must be classified under 3304.99.10.00 or 3304.99.50.00.
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring retail-packaged Vaseline as bulk industrial goods (2712) can lead to customs penalties for false declaration.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 2712.10.00.00 ββ Petroleum Jelly (Bulk/Industrial, Non-Retail)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% (ad valorem) |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10% (specific to Chinese products) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:2712.10.00.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- The 25% is the standard Section 301 tariff for Chinese-origin goods.
- The 10% is the additional IEEPA tariff specifically targeting petroleum derivatives from China.
- Total 35% applies to bulk petroleum jelly.
π― 2. 2712.90.20.00 ββ Petroleum Jelly (Generic Bulk, Non-Retail)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| USITC Surcharge | +25% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:2712.90.20.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- Same tax structure as2712.10.00.00.
- Applies to petroleum jelly that does not fit the specific "not put up for retail" subheading but is still not retail-packaged cosmetics.
π― 3. 3304.99.10.00 ββ Retail-Packaged Petroleum Jelly
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| USITC Surcharge | +25% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3304.99.10.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Explanation:
- Even though it is a cosmetic product (Chapter 33), it is still subject to Section 301 and IEEPA surcharges when originating from China.
- The key difference from bulk goods is the HS Code prefix (33xx vs 27xx), but the total tariff rate remains 35% for Chinese origin.
π― 4. 3304.99.50.00 ββ Petroleum Jelly as Skin Care Preparation
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0% |
| USITC Surcharge | +25% |
| IEEPA Surcharge | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 35% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption? | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9901.25 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 β USITC:3304.99.50.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
π Note:
- This code specifically targets products marketed for beauty/skincare benefits.
- Tax rate is identical to other codes: 35% for Chinese-origin goods.
- Crucial: Do not assume cosmetic items have lower tariffs due to origin; Chinese cosmetics are heavily taxed.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Proven Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist (None of the following can be missing)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Includes ingredient composition (percentage of mineral oils/waxes), melting point, viscosity |
| β Certificate of Analysis (COA) | βοΈ | Proves purity and compliance with cosmetic/pharmaceutical standards (if applicable) |
| β Product Photos (with Label) | βοΈ | Clearly shows packaging type (bulk drum vs. retail jar) and ingredient list |
| β Third-Party Test Report | βοΈ | FDA compliance, cosmetic safety reports, heavy metal testing (if for cosmetics) |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Petroleum Jelly, [Bulk/Retail], for [Industrial/Cosmetic] Use" |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Critical for verifying Chinese origin to apply correct tariffs |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Details net/gross weight, packaging dimensions, and quantity |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ "Bulk is Chapter 27, Retail is Chapter 33; Name precisely, avoid fines!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Action |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk Vaseline (5kg drum) | 2712.10.00.00 or 2712.90.20.00 |
Misdeclare as 3304 β Potential penalty for false classification |
| Retail Jar (100g for consumers) | 3304.99.10.00 or 3304.99.50.00 |
Misdeclare as 2712 β Customs may reject as "not fitting industrial use" |
| Vaseline with added fragrance | 3304.99.50.00 |
Declare as plain 2712 β Incorrect as it's now a cosmetic preparation |
| Medical-grade Vaseline | 3304.99.50.00 (if marketed for skincare) or 3004 (if drug) |
Misdeclare as 2712 β Regulatory risk (FDA oversight) |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM White-Label Vaseline | Provide client order + packaging design; avoid "generic" claims if it has branding |
| Vaseline with Added Medicinal Ingredients (e.g., Menthol) | May be classified under Chapter 30 (Pharmaceuticals) instead of 33 or 27. Consult customs broker. |
| Bulk Vaseline for Food Processing | Still 2712, but must provide Food-Grade Certification to prove non-toxicity |
| Vaseline for Military/Industrial Lubrication | Provide end-use certificate; may qualify for duty drawback if exported again |
π V. Global Main Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 2712 or 3304.99 |
35% (Chinese Origin) | FDA (if cosmetic), EPA (if industrial) | Highest cost due to 301 + IEEPA taxes |
| π¨π³ China | 2712 or 3304 |
5% - 10% | CCC (if applicable), Cosmetic Filing | No additional surcharges |
| πͺπΊ EU | 2712 or 3304 |
0% - 6.5% | CPNP (Cosmetic Notification), REACH | No US-style surcharges |
| π¬π§ UK | 2712 or 3304 |
0% - 6.5% | UKCPN, UKREACH | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π―π΅ Japan | 2712 or 3304 |
0% - 5.7% | JAS, Pharmaceutical Approval | Strict labeling rules |
π Conclusion:
- The US is the most expensive market for Chinese-origin Petroleum Jelly due to 35% total tariffs.
- EU and UK have significantly lower tariffs (0-6.5%) and no Section 301/IEEPA surcharges.
- Strategic Advice: If targeting the US market, consider origin diversification (e.g., produce in Malaysia, Thailand, or Vietnam) to potentially qualify for lower tariffs or IEEPA exemptions.
π VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Avoidance Guide (Blood & Tears Lessons)
β Error 1: Declaring retail-packaged Vaseline as "Industrial Petroleum Jelly" (2712) to avoid cosmetic regulations
π Consequence: Customs seizure for false declaration + FDA regulatory action.
β Error 2: Not specifying "Petroleum Jelly" in the description, using vague terms like "Grease" or "Wax"
π Consequence: Customs delays for classification review, potential demurrage charges.
β Error 3: Assuming "Cosmetic" means lower tariffs
π Consequence: No! Chinese cosmetics are taxed at 35% (same as bulk). Do not assume Chapter 33 is cheaper.
β Error 4: Missing the IEEPA 10% Surcharge in cost calculation
π Consequence: Profit margin erosion. Always budget for 35%, not just 25%.
β Correct Practice:
"Petroleum Jelly, 100% Pure, 100g Jar, Retail Packaged, For Cosmetic/Skincare Use, Made in China, FDA Compliant"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time, Reduce Costs!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Bulk is 2712, Retail is 3304; Both 35% for China, no surprise!"
πΉ "Name it right, pack it right, clear the light!"
πΉ "HS Code determines destiny, 35% tariff is the test, declare properly or pay the rest!"
π Pro Tip:
If your petroleum jelly is originally from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, or Vietnam, you may qualify for lower tariffs (often 0-3%) and IEEPA exemptions.
Recommendation: Apply for an Advance Ruling with US Customs (CBP) before shipment to confirm the correct HS Code and tariff rate.
π£ Act Now:
π Contact a professional customs broker + Provide product photos + Apply for HS Code Advance Ruling
π Ensure your Petroleum Jelly clears smoothly, reduces costs, and boosts profits!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent of your cost deserves precise calculation!
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.