Turpentine Mold Release Agent
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3809925000 | 41.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3815905000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3809921000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3811900000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999386 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π§ͺ Turpentine Mold Release Agent (Turfentine Desulfurization Agent)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π I. Product Definition and Classification: Do You Really Understand "Turpentine Mold Release Agent"?
A "Turpentine Mold Release Agent" (often referred to in trade data as "Turpentine Desulfurization Agent" or ζΎθζ²Ήθ±η‘«ε) is a specialized chemical preparation. Its primary function is to act as a release agent, coupling agent, or auxiliary chemical in industrial processes (such as rubber, plastics, or textile manufacturing).
In international trade, its classification depends on its specific chemical nature and primary function: * Is it a general chemical preparation? (e.g., cleaning, desulfurizing, auxiliary) β Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous Chemical Products) * Is it a catalyst or reaction accelerator? β Chapter 38 (Catalytic preparations) * Is it a specific textile auxiliary? β Chapter 38 (Textile auxiliaries)
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the product is primarily a general chemical mixture for desulfurization or as a release agent without specific catalytic properties β Consider 3809.
- If the product explicitly acts as a catalyst, reaction initiator, or accelerator β Consider 3815.
- If the exact chemical composition is unclear but it functions as a release agent β Consider 3824.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most relevant HS Codes for "Turpentine Mold Release Agent" / "Turpentine Desulfurization Agent":
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Key Classification Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
3809.92.50.00 |
Other chemical preparations (Other products and preparations) | General chemical auxiliary; Desulfurization agent not fit for other specific chapters | General Chemical Preparation: Fits "Other products and preparations" under Ch 38. No material conflict with textiles/leather exclusions. |
3815.90.50.00 |
Catalyst preparations; Reaction initiators or accelerators | Acts as a catalyst or reaction accelerator in chemical processes | Catalytic Function: Matches "Reaction initiators, accelerators, and catalytic preparations." Chemical nature is catalytic. |
3809.92.10.00 |
Textile, printing, or leather auxiliaries (Other) | Used as a sizing, bleaching, dye carrier, or finishing agent | Textile/Printing Auxiliary: Fits "Other products and preparations" under 3809.92. No material conflict. |
3811.90.00.00 |
Anti-knock preparations, oxidation inhibitors, etc. (Liquid) | Liquid additive; Mineral oil-based or similar liquid composition | Liquid Additive: "Desulfurization agent" is seen as a liquid additive. Material inferred as mineral oil or similar liquid. |
3824.99.93.86 |
Prepared binders for foundry molds; Chemical products n.e.c. | Specific use as a "Desulfurization Agent" or mold-related chemical | Specific Use: Matches "Used as a desulfurization agent." Material conflict deemed non-existent; default to true if material uncertain. |
π Key Reminder:
- 3809 vs. 3815: If the agent primarily releases the mold (physical barrier) or cleans, 3809 is more likely. If it catalyzes a chemical reaction during mold curing, 3815 is better.
- 3811 vs. 3824: If it's a liquid oil-based additive, 3811 applies. If it's a specific chemical binder or agent for molds/foundries, 3824 is the fallback.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
π― 1. 3809.92.50.00 ββ General Chemical Preparations (Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.0% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Provision Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (High tariff rate) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6% β Section 301: 25% β 122 Provision: 10% |
π Explanation:
- This code treats the product as a general chemical auxiliary.
- The 41% total rate is significant. Must be factored into cost models.
π― 2. 3815.90.50.00 ββ Catalyst Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Provision Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 5% β Section 301: 25% β 122 Provision: 10% |
π Note:
- Slightly lower than 3809 (40% vs. 41%) due to a 1% lower base tariff.
- Applies if the productβs catalytic function is the primary selling point.
π― 3. 3809.92.10.00 ββ Textile/Printing Auxiliaries
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.5% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Provision Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6.5% β Section 301: 25% β 122 Provision: 10% |
π Warning:
- Highest Base Rate (6.5%) among the 3809/3815 options.
- Use only if the product is explicitly marketed as a textile or printing auxiliary.
π― 4. 3811.90.00.00 ββ Liquid Additives (Anti-knock, etc.)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 6.5% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Provision Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6.5% β Section 301: 25% β 122 Provision: 10% |
π Note:
- Only applicable if the product is liquid and fits the description of mineral oil-based additives or liquid chemical preparations under 3811.
π― 5. 3824.99.93.86 ββ Other Chemical Products (Prepared Binders/Desulfurization)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Basic Tariff | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25% |
| 122 Provision Tariff | +10% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 5% β Section 301: 25% β 122 Provision: 10% |
π Special Note:
- Lowest Total Rate (40%) alongside 3815.
- Specifically mentions "Used as a desulfurization agent".
- If the product is specifically for mold binding or desulfurization in foundry/rubber processes, this is a strong candidate.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (No Shortcuts)
| Document | Must Provide | Description |
|---|---|---|
| β Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | βοΈ | Must specify chemical composition, function (catalyst vs. release agent), and state (liquid/solid). |
| β MSDS (Safety Data Sheet) | βοΈ | Critical for chemical imports. Shows hazards and composition. |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear label showing "Mold Release Agent" or "Desulfurization Agent." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Accurate description. Avoid vague terms like "Chemical Mix." Use "Turpentine-based Mold Release Agent." |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | Required for tariff determination. |
| β Usage Statement | βοΈ | Explicitly state: "Used in rubber/plastic molding as a release agent/catalyst." |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Function First, Composition Key, Name Precise, Tax Lower!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Catalytic Function | HS 3815.90.50.00 |
Misdeclare as 3809 β 41% vs 40% |
| General Release Agent | HS 3809.92.50.00 |
Misdeclare as 3824 β Risk of audit |
| Specific Desulfurization | HS 3824.99.93.86 |
Misdeclare as 3811 β If not liquid oil |
| Textile Auxiliary | HS 3809.92.10.00 |
Only if used in textile dyeing/finishing |
π Critical Warning:
- Do not simply label as "Chemical" without specifying function.
- Liquid vs. Solid: If liquid, 3811 is possible. If solid/paste, 3809/3815/3824.
- "Desulfurization" vs. "Release": If the main purpose is desulfurization (chemical removal of sulfur), 3824 or 3809 is best. If it releases the mold (physical), 3809 is safer.
β 3. Special Circumstances Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM/Private Label | Provide client authorization + formula (if available) to justify HS Code. |
| Mixture of Functions | Declare the primary function. If catalytic, use 3815. If general, use 3809. |
| Unclear Composition | Provide full MSDS. Customs may require lab testing to confirm "catalytic" vs. "general" nature. |
| Small Samples (De Minimis) | β Not Eligible. Even small shipments of these chemicals from China are subject to full tariffs (40-41.5%). |
π V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3815.90.50.00 or 3824.99.93.86 |
40.0% (Base 5% + 25% + 10%) | EPA/TSCA Compliance | High tariffs apply. 3809 is 41%. |
| π¨π³ China | 3824.99.93.86 |
~5-10% | CCC (if applicable) | Domestic trade varies. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3824.99.93.86 |
~6.5% + VAT | REACH Registration | REACH compliance is mandatory for chemicals. |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 3815.90.50.00 |
~5-10% | APVMA (if agro) | General industrial chemicals have lower tariffs. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3824.99.93.86 |
~5-7% | PRTR Law | Strict chemical reporting. |
π Conclusion:
- USA has the highest effective tariff (40-41.5%) due to Section 301 and 122 Provision.
- EU/Australia/Japan have significantly lower base tariffs but strict chemical regulations (REACH, APVMA, PRTR).
- Key Cost Driver: US tariffs are the biggest hurdle. Consider supply chain diversification if possible.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring as "General Chemical" without specifying function
π Consequence: Customs may assess the highest applicable rate or require expensive lab tests to determine HS Code.
β Mistake 2: Confusing "Release Agent" with "Catalyst"
π Consequence: If itβs a release agent (physical), 3815 (catalyst) is incorrect β 40% vs 41% difference + audit risk.
β Mistake 3: Ignoring the "122 Provision"
π Consequence: Underestimating costs by 10%. The 122 Provision adds +10% on top of Section 301. Total is not just 25%, but 25% + 10% + Base.
β Mistake 4: Using vague names like "Turpentine Product"
π Consequence: Customs may reject the declaration or assign a default HS Code with higher duties.
β Correct Practice:
"Turpentine-Based Mold Release Agent, Liquid, Chemical Composition: [Detail], Function: Release Agent/Catalyst, HS Code: 3815.90.50.00"
π― VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Time-Saving, Cost-Effective!
π― Remember the Mnemonic:
πΉ "Function Defines Code, Catalyst Saves 1%, 122 Adds 10%, Donβt Skip It!"
πΉ "40-41% is the US Reality, Declare Accurately to Avoid Delays!"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is shipped from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand, it may be exempt from Section 301 and 122 Provision tariffs.
- Recommendation: Apply for ISF (Import Security Filing) early.
- Advanced Ruling: Consider applying for a US CBP Advance Ruling to lock in the HS Code and tariff rate before shipment.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker + Provide TDS/MSDS + Apply for Advance Ruling
π Ensure your Turpentine Mold Release Agent clears smoothly, avoids penalties, and protects your margins!
β¨ Professional clearance starts with precise classification!
πΌ Every percentage point counts in chemical imports!
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.