Retail Packaged Aromatic Insecticide Spray
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3808611000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3808915001 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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π¦ Aromatic Insecticide Spray (Retail Packaged)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Know βAromatic Insecticide Sprayβ?
Aromatic insecticide spray is a ready-to-use pest control product designed for retail sale. It typically contains active insecticidal ingredients suspended in a volatile aromatic carrier (such as essential oils, synthetic fragrances, or petroleum distillates) to repel or kill insects. In international trade, the classification hinges on two critical factors: 1. Packaging Form: Is it put up for retail sale? (Yes, as specified in the prompt). 2. Chemical Composition: Does it contain aromatic or modified aromatic pesticides? (Yes, βAromaticβ is explicitly stated).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is not for retail sale (e.g., bulk industrial concentrate) β Different HS Code.
- If the product is non-aromatic (e.g., standard chemical pyrethroids without aromatic solvents/pesticides) β 3808.91.50.01 (30% Tax).
- If the product contains any aromatic/modified aromatic pesticide AND is in retail packaging (β€300g net weight) β 3808.61.10.00 (0% Tax).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Tax Rate (China Origin to US) |
|---|---|---|---|
3808.61.10.00 |
Insecticides... put up in forms/packings for retail sale: In packings of net weight β€ 300 g, containing any aromatic or modified aromatic pesticide | Retail spray cans, small bottles with aromatic scent/active ingredients | β 0.0% |
3808.91.50.01 |
Insecticides... Other: Other | Bulk chemicals, non-retail packaging, or non-aromatic insecticides | β 30.0% |
π Critical Reminder:
- The term "Aromatic" in this context refers to the presence of aromatic or modified aromatic pesticides within the preparation, not just the scent. However, retail sprays labeled as "Aromatic" often fall under the specific subheading 3808.61.10.00 if they meet the weight and composition criteria.
- Net Weight Constraint: The packaging must have a net weight content not exceeding 300 grams. If the spray can is 500g, it may not qualify for this specific subheading under Subheading Note 2 to Chapter 38.
- Retail Sale: Must be ready for direct consumer use (e.g., aerosol can, pump spray bottle).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Detailed Breakdown)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current 2026 Tariff Schedule
π― 1. 3808.61.10.00 ββ Aromatic Insecticide Spray (Retail, β€300g)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Additional Tariffs (Section 301 / IEEPA) | 0.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0% = $0.00 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | N/A (Since tax is 0%, de minimis doesn't apply for duty waiver, but shipment is tax-free anyway) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS Chapter 38, Note 2 β Subheading 3808.61 β Note 2 to Chapter 38 |
π Explanation:
- This specific subheading (3808.61.10.00) is designed for retail-packaged aromatic insecticides.
- Surprisingly, the total tariff is 0%. This includes both the base tariff and any potential Section 301 or IEEPA surcharges, as per the provided data.
- Why? The US tariff schedule often assigns lower or zero duties to specific retail consumer goods in this category to reflect their low risk and high consumer demand, provided they meet the "aromatic" and weight criteria.
π― 2. 3808.91.50.01 ββ Other Insecticides (Non-Retail or Non-Aromatic)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 5.0% |
| Additional Tariffs (Section 301 / IEEPA) | 25.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 30.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 30% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Not Applicable for Duty (But still subject to other regulations) |
| Legal Basis Path | HS Chapter 38 β Subheading 3808.91 β USITC Footnote |
π Note:
- If your product is misclassified as "Other" (e.g., if it's not considered "aromatic pesticide" under the note, or exceeds 300g), you will face a 30% tariff.
- This is a high-cost pitfall. Always verify if your product meets the specific definition of "containing any aromatic or modified aromatic pesticide."
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Preparation Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Label | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Insecticide," active ingredients, and net weight β€ 300g. |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Required for chemical safety compliance (EPA/TSCA). |
| β EPA Registration Number | βοΈ | Critical for US. All insecticides sold in the US must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must specify "Aromatic Insecticide Spray, Retail Packaged, Net Weight 200g" (example). |
| β Packaging Photos | βοΈ | Show the retail packaging to prove it's for direct consumer sale. |
| β Composition Statement | βοΈ | Confirm the presence of "aromatic or modified aromatic pesticide" to justify HS Code 3808.61.10.00. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
π₯ βRetail Packaged, Aromatic Content, Under 300g, Zero Tax!β
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Small retail spray (e.g., 100g mosquito repellent) | 3808.61.10.00 |
3808.91.50.01 β 30% Tax! |
| Bulk insecticide concentrate (1kg drum) | Not eligible for 3808.61.10.00 | Correctly declare as industrial |
| Non-aromatic bug spray (50g) | Check if it contains aromatic pesticides; if not, 3808.91.50.01 |
Forcing 3808.61.10.00 β Misclassification Risk |
| Large retail bottle (500g) | Exceeds 300g limit β 3808.91.50.01 |
Assuming all retail is 0% β Audit Risk |
β 3. Special Handling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| EPA Compliance | Ensure the product has an EPA Registration Number. Without it, the shipment will be detained or rejected by CBP, regardless of HS Code. |
| Net Weight Verification | Double-check the net weight of the liquid/active content. If itβs 301g, you lose the 0% rate. |
| Aromatic Definition | "Aromatic" in HS Note 2 refers to chemical structure (benzene rings, etc.) in the pesticide or solvent. If unsure, provide a chemical composition analysis to customs broker. |
| Hazmat Shipping | Insecticide sprays are often flammable (aerosols). Ensure proper DG (Dangerous Goods) labeling and IATA/IMDG compliance for air/ocean freight. |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Key Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3808.61.10.00 |
0.0% | EPA Registration | Must be β€300g retail |
| π¨π³ China | 3808.61.10.00 |
5% | Pesticide License | Domestic sale requires license |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3808.94.00 |
0-4.5% | Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) | EU requires BPR approval |
| π¬π§ UK | 3808.94.00 |
0% | Biocidal Products Regulation | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3808.91.10 |
3.5% | Pesticide Control Law | Stricter residue limits |
π Conclusion:
- USA offers the best tariff advantage (0%) for small retail aromatic insecticides.
- EPA Registration is non-negotiable in the US market.
- Weight limit (β€300g) is strict β verify packaging before shipping.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring a 500g insecticide spray as 3808.61.10.00
π Consequence: Customs will reclassify to 3808.91.50.01 and charge 30% duty + penalties.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring EPA Registration Number on the label
π Consequence: Shipment seized by CBP. EPA violations are serious and can lead to fines.
β Mistake 3: Calling it "Pest Control Spray" without specifying "Aromatic Insecticide"
π Consequence: Ambiguity may lead to conservative classification by customs broker β Higher tax.
β Mistake 4: Assuming "Aromatic" means just "smells good"
π Consequence: If the chemical composition doesn't meet the technical definition in HS Note 2, you may be misclassified. Provide chemical data to support the claim.
β Correct Approach:
βEPA Reg. No. 12345-67, Insecticide Spray, Aromatic Formula, Net Wt. 150g, Retail Packaged, Model XYZβ
π― VII. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ βRetail Packaged, Aromatic, Under 300g = 0% Duty!β
πΉ βOver 300g or Non-Aromatic = 30% Duty!β
πΉ βNo EPA Number = No Entry!β
π Pro Tip:
- If your insecticide spray is aromatic but exceeds 300g, consider splitting the packaging or rebranding as a smaller retail unit if feasible.
- Always apply for an EPA Registration Number before shipping to the US.
- Use a licensed customs broker to verify the chemical composition against HS Note 2 to Chapter 38.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact EPA for registration + Verify Net Weight < 300g + Declare as
3808.61.10.00
π Clear customs smoothly, avoid 30% tax, and boost your profit margin!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar Saved is a Dollar Earned!
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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.