Synthetic Base Hydraulic Oil
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3821000010 | 15.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3821000090 | 15.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 1518004000 | 25.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 1518002000 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2710193080 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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π’οΈ Synthetic Base Hydraulic Oil (Synthetic Hydraulic Fluids)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Tariff Breakdown | Professional Entry Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Understanding "Synthetic Hydraulic Oil"
Synthetic Base Hydraulic Oil is a high-performance fluid designed for hydraulic transmission systems. Unlike conventional mineral oils, these are chemically engineered esters, polyalphaolefins (PAOs), or other synthetic compounds. In international trade, their classification depends heavily on their chemical composition and primary function.
They are generally categorized into two main material attributes: 1. Chemically Prepared Transmission Liquids: Specifically formulated for hydraulic systems, meeting specific material attributes for transmission preparation. 2. Refined Chemical Oils/Esters: Classified under general "Oils and Other Substances Derived from Fats" or "Petroleum Oils," depending on the base stock and refining process.
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is defined as a prepared liquid for hydraulic transmission with specific synthetic material attributes β It falls under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
- If the product is viewed as a chemically modified fat/oil derivative or petroleum derivative β It may fall under Chapter 15 (Animal/Vegetable Fats/Oils) or Chapter 27 (Mineral Fuels/Oils).
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Matrix (2026 Latest Tariff Schedule)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Material Attribute |
|---|---|---|---|
3821.00.00.10 |
Prepared hydraulic transmission liquids, synthetic base | Hydraulic braking systems, industrial hydraulic presses | β Specific hydraulic transmission preparation |
3821.00.00.90 |
Other prepared hydraulic transmission liquids (non-petroleum/low-petroleum) | General synthetic hydraulic fluids, non-petroleum based | β Non-petroleum/low-petroleum synthetic |
1518.00.40.00 |
Fats & oils, chemically modified (hydrogenated, inter-esterified, etc.) | Synthetic oils derived from chemically modified vegetable/mineral bases | β Chemically modified oil/fat derivative |
1518.00.20.00 |
Other chemically modified oils/fractions | Specialized synthetic esters or modified fractions | β Chemically modified oil/fraction |
2710.19.30.80 |
Petroleum oils & preparations (other than crude), including lubricating oils | Synthetic oils based on petroleum derivatives (PAOs) | β Petroleum-based lubricant preparation |
π Critical Reminder:
- The base stock (Petroleum vs. Synthetic Ester) determines whether it goes to Chapter 27 or Chapter 15/38.
- If it is explicitly marketed as a "Prepared Liquid for Hydraulic Transmission,"3821is the most precise functional classification.
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring a synthetic ester as simple "mineral oil" (2710) may trigger anti-dumping or higher scrutiny if the chemical profile differs significantly.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties & Policies)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3821.00.00.10 & 3821.00.00.90 β Prepared Hydraulic Transmission Liquids
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 5.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | 0.0% (No additional 301 duty listed for this specific subheading in the provided data) |
| Section 122 Clause Duty | 10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 15.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 15% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Typically, chemical products >$800 do not qualify; verify specific de minimis rules for chemicals) |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3821.00.00 β Section 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- These codes fall under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products).
- The 15% total rate consists of a 5% basic duty + 10% Section 122 duty.
- Note: Unlike electronics (3821does not have the 25% Section 301 duty listed in the source data), these have 0% Section 301 additional duty. This makes them more favorable than many electronic components.
π― 2. 1518.00.40.00 β Chemically Modified Fats & Oils (Hydrogenated, etc.)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 8.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Clause Duty | 10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 25.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 25.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:1518.00.40 β Section 122:10% β Section 301:7.5% |
π Explanation:
- If the synthetic oil is classified as a chemically modified oil/fat derivative, it attracts a higher base rate (8%) plus Section 301 (7.5%) and Section 122 (10%).
- Total 25.5% is significantly higher than the3821codes. Proper classification is critical to save 10.5% in duties.
π― 3. 1518.00.20.00 β Other Chemically Modified Oils/Fractions
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.3Β’/kg (Specific Duty) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | 7.5% (Ad Valorem on CIF) |
| Section 122 Clause Duty | 10.0% (Ad Valorem on CIF) |
| Total Tariff Structure | 6.3Β’/kg + 17.5% (Ad Valorem) |
| Tax Calculation | (Weight in kg Γ 6.3Β’) + (CIF Value Γ 17.5%) |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:1518.00.20 β Section 301:7.5% β Section 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This code uses a mixed duty structure (Specific + Ad Valorem).
- For low-value, high-volume shipments, the 17.5% ad valorem part (7.5% Sec 301 + 10% Sec 122) applies on top of the per-kg charge.
- Caution: Ensure the "kg" value is accurate; errors here lead to significant under/over-payment.
π― 4. 2710.19.30.80 β Other Petroleum Oils & Lubricating Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 84Β’/bbl (Specific Duty) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | 25.0% (Ad Valorem on CIF) |
| Section 122 Clause Duty | 10.0% (Ad Valorem on CIF) |
| Total Tariff Structure | 84Β’/bbl + 35.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Tax Calculation | (Volume in barrels Γ 84Β’) + (CIF Value Γ 35.0%) |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:2710.19.30 β Section 301:25% β Section 122:10% |
π Explanation:
- This is the most expensive classification in terms of ad valorem rate (35% total).
- Section 301 adds 25%, which is the highest additional duty tier.
- Risk: If the synthetic oil is petroleum-based but misclassified as3821, you might pay less, but if itβs declared as2710when itβs actually a chemically modified ester, you risk penalties.
- Note: The 84Β’/bbl specific duty is small compared to the 35% ad valorem, but must still be calculated.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ Yes | Crucial for HS classification. Must specify if petroleum-based or synthetic ester. |
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ Yes | Details viscosity, flash point, base stock (PAO, Ester, etc.). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ Yes | Must clearly state "Synthetic Base Hydraulic Oil" and HS Code. |
| β Bill of Lading (B/L) | βοΈ Yes | Weight and volume (for barrels/kg calculations). |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ Yes | Required for verifying US/China trade status. |
| β Lab Test Report | β Recommended | To prove chemical composition if challenged by CBP. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Phrases)
π₯ "Specify Base Stock, Specify Function, Avoid Ambiguity!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Ester Fluid | "Synthetic Hydraulic Oil, Ester Base, for Industrial Hydraulics" | "Motor Oil" or "Lubricant" |
| PAO-Based Synthetic | "Synthetic Hydraulic Fluid, Polyalphaolefin (PAO) Base" | "Petroleum Oil" (if not primarily petroleum-derived) |
| Prepared Transmission Liquid | "Prepared Liquid for Hydraulic Transmission, Synthetic" | "Chemical Mixture" |
π Note:
- Do not simply declare as "Lubricating Oil" without specifics. CBP may reclassify to2710.19.30.80(35% duty) if function/material is unclear.
- Highlight "Prepared for Hydraulic Transmission" to aim for3821(15% duty), which is more favorable than2710(35%).
β 3. Special Handling Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Shipments (Petroleum + Synthetic) | Separate HS codes on the invoice. Do not mix declarations. |
| Bulk Tanker vs. Drum | Ensure correct unit of measure (Barrels for 2710, kg for 1518.00.20). |
| Chemical Modification | If hydroprocessed, provide lab proof of chemical structure to justify 1518 or 3821. |
| Re-export | If re-exported, ensure original HS code documentation is maintained. |
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Rate | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3821.00.00.10 |
15% | SDS, MSDS | Avoid 2710 (35%); prefer 3821 for savings. |
| π¨π³ China | 3821.00.00 |
0-5% (Import) | CCC (if applicable) | Lower duties for imported hydraulic oils. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3819.10.00 |
3.7% | REACH Compliance | EU classifies hydraulic fluids under 3819. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3819.10.00 |
3.7% | UKCA | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3819.10.00 |
5% | JIS Standards | Standard duty for hydraulic fluids. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market has the highest complexity due to Section 122 and Section 301 duties.
- Optimal Strategy: Classify under3821.00.00.10(15% total) rather than2710(35%) or1518(25.5%+) to minimize costs.
- Key Driver: Prove that the product is a "Prepared Liquid for Hydraulic Transmission" with synthetic material attributes.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring Synthetic Hydraulic Oil as "Mineral Oil" (2710)
π Consequence: If CBP determines itβs not primarily petroleum-based, they may penalize for misclassification, plus you paid 35% instead of 15%.
π Correction: Use SDS to prove synthetic base (Ester/PAO) and functional preparation.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Section 122 Duties
π Consequence: Underpaying duties by 10%.
π Correction: Always add 10% for Section 122 on all chemical imports from China.
β Mistake 3: Confusing 1518 (Modified Oils) with 3821 (Prepared Liquids)
π Consequence: 1518 may have higher duties (25.5%) or specific duties (6.3Β’/kg + 17.5%). 3821 is 15% flat.
π Correction: If the product is specifically "prepared for hydraulic transmission," use 3821.
β Mistake 4: Incorrect Unit of Measure for 1518.00.20.00
π Consequence: Wrong specific duty calculation (6.3Β’/kg).
π Correction: Verify weight in kg precisely.
β Correct Practice:
"Synthetic Base Hydraulic Oil, Ester-Based, Prepared for Industrial Hydraulic Transmission Systems, SDS Available, HS Code: 3821.00.00.10"
π― VII. Conclusion: Smart Classification, Cost Savings!
π― Remember:
πΉ "Prepared Liquids Save Money" β
3821(15%) vs.2710(35%) or1518(25.5%+).
πΉ "Section 122 is Universal" β Add 10% to all US-China chemical imports.
πΉ "SDS is King" β Use it to justify "Prepared Hydraulic Transmission" status.
π Pro Tip:
If your synthetic oil is non-petroleum-based and specifically prepared for hydraulics, fight for 3821.00.00.10. It offers the lowest total tariff (15%) and avoids the steep 25% Section 301 duty found in 2710 and 1518.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Consult with a Customs Broker to review your SDS.
π Prepare precise product descriptions highlighting "Hydraulic Transmission Preparation."
π Optimize your HS Code to save 20% in duties!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Counts in Logistics Costs!
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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.