Weather resistant Mortar
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3214100010 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3214905000 | 38.25% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 382490 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 382490 | 0.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
𧱠Weather-Resistant Mortar: The Ultimate Guide to HS Code Classification & Customs Clearance (2026 Update)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
π Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Really Understand "Weather-Resistant Mortar"?
Weather-resistant mortar is a specialized construction material designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions (rain, UV radiation, freeze-thaw cycles) while providing structural bonding or sealing. In international trade, these products are often confused with general construction chemicals, leading to significant customs risks.
There are two primary classification paths depending on the chemical composition and intended use:
Construction-Grade Mortars/Plasters (Chapter 32):
Traditional mortars, mastics, and caulks specifically designed for facades, indoor walls, floors, or ceilings. These are primarily classified under Chapter 32 (Paints, Varnishes, Putties, etc.).
Specialized Chemical Products (Chapter 38):
Chemical products not elsewhere specified, including advanced weather-resistant mortars used for bonding or sealing, which may fall under Chapter 38 if they do not fit the specific definitions of Chapter 32 mastics or are formulated with unique chemical additives that define them as "other chemical products."
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is a traditional putty, mastic, or caulk used for glazing or filling β Chapter 32 (HS 3214)
- If the product is a complex chemical mortar/plaster resistant to weather, used for construction bonding/sealing, and does not fit standard mastic definitions β Chapter 38 (HS 3824)
π¦ Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Chemical/Physical Nature |
|---|---|---|---|
3214.10.00.10 |
Glazier's putty, grafting putty, resin cements, caulking compounds and other mastics; painters' fillings | Traditional window glazing, grafting, basic sealing, painter's fillings | β Traditional mastic/putty nature |
3214.90.50.00 |
Other: Other | Non-refractory surfacing preparations, general construction mastics not covered under 3214.10 | β General construction mastics |
3824.90 |
Other chemical products not elsewhere specified, including mortars and plasters designed to be resistant to weather conditions, used in construction for bonding or sealing purposes | Advanced weather-resistant construction mortars, specialized bonding agents | β Specialized chemical formulation |
3824.90 |
Miscellaneous chemical products, specifically weather-resistant mortars intended for use in construction applications requiring durability against environmental exposure | High-performance weather-resistant mortars for exterior facades | β High-performance chemical mortar |
π Critical Reminder:
- Chapter 32 (3214) is for mastics, putties, and caulks. If your product is a "putty" or "caulk," it likely belongs here.
- Chapter 38 (3824) is for miscellaneous chemical products. If your "mortar" is a chemically complex, weather-resistant bonding agent that doesn't fit the traditional definition of a mastic, it may fall here.
- Do not misclassify: A simple cement-based mortar is often excluded from these codes (look to Chapter 38 or 39 depending on additives), but the specific "weather-resistant" descriptions in the provided data point to3824.90or3214.10/3214.90.
π° Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharge Tariffs & Policy Additions)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current (2026 Analysis)
π― 1. 3214.10.00.10 β Glazier's Putty, Grafting Putty, Resin Cements, Caulking Compounds
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge Tariff | 0.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 0.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 0.0% = $0.00 |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β N/A (0% tax means de minimis is irrelevant, but value still matters for reporting) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3214.10.00.10 |
π Explanation:
- This code has 0% base tariff and 0% additional tariffs.
- This is the most favorable classification for traditional putties, caulks, and glazing mastics.
- Ensure the product description explicitly states "putty," "caulk," or "mastic" to secure this 0% rate.
π― 2. 3214.90.50.00 β Other: Other (General Construction Mastics)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 3.25% |
| Section 301 Surcharge Tariff | 25.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 28.25% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 28.25% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (Section 301 tariffs apply) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3214.90.50.00 + USITC Footnote for Section 301 |
π Explanation:
- This code applies to other mastics not classified under 3214.10.
- It incurs a 3.25% base tariff + 25% Section 301 surcharge.
- High tax burden: Nearly 30% duty. Must be carefully justified.
π― 3. 3824.90 β Other Chemical Products (Weather-Resistant Mortars/Plasters)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | β Failed to retrieve tax information |
| Total Tariff Rate | Error / Unknown |
| Tax Calculation | Cannot be calculated precisely without official ruling |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β Unknown |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3824.90 |
π Critical Warning:
- The tax information for3824.90is marked as "Error" or "Failed to retrieve" in the current dataset.
- This indicates high uncertainty. It may have a base tariff (often 0-5%) but could also be subject to Section 301 tariffs if not specifically exempted.
- DO NOT assume 0% or any specific rate. You must apply for a Pre-Ruling (Advance Ruling) from CBP to determine the exact rate.
- Risk: If misclassified, you could face significant back-taxes and penalties.
π οΈ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Essential)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail chemical composition, weather-resistant properties, and intended use (bonding/sealing). |
| β Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) | βοΈ | Helps CBP determine if it's a "chemical product" (Ch 38) or "mastic" (Ch 32). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Show packaging, label, and physical form (putty, liquid, powder). |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Clearly describe the product as "Weather-Resistant Mortar" or "Caulking Compound" as per HS Code. |
| β Country of Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Crucial for determining applicability of Section 301 tariffs. |
| β Pre-Ruling Request (if applicable) | βοΈ | Highly recommended for 3824.90 due to tax uncertainty. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Rules)
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Glazing Putty / Window Caulk | 3214.10.00.10 |
Explicitly listed in description. 0% Tax. |
| General Construction Mastic / Painter's Filler | 3214.90.50.00 |
Fits "Other" mastics. 28.25% Tax. |
| Advanced Weather-Resistant Mortar for Bonding | 3824.90 |
Not a traditional mastic; specialized chemical mortar. Tax Uncertain (Apply for Ruling). |
π₯ "Mastic vs. Mortar" Rule:
- If it's a putty, caulk, or resin cement β 3214
- If it's a cement-based or complex chemical mortar for weather resistance β 3824
β 3. Special Handling Tips
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| Unclear Classification | Do NOT guess. Apply for a CBP Advance Ruling before shipping to avoid disputes and penalties. |
| Mixed Shipments | Separate putties (3214.10) from advanced mortars (3824.90) in documentation to clarify intent. |
| Marketing Terms | Avoid using "Mortar" in the commercial name if it's actually a "Caulk" or "Putty" to avoid confusion with 3824. |
| Origin Labeling | Clearly mark "Made in China" to trigger Section 301 checks for 3214.90. |
π Part 5: Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Est. Tariff (China Origin) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3214.10.00.10 |
0.0% | Best rate for traditional putties/caulks. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3214.90.50.00 |
28.25% | High tax due to Section 301. |
| πΊπΈ USA | 3824.90 |
Uncertain | Requires Pre-Ruling. Do not assume 0%. |
| π¨π³ China | 3824.90 |
Varies (Export Data) | Check import duties for reverse engineering. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3824.90 |
~6.5% | Standard NTR rate; no Section 301 equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3824.90 |
~6.5% | Post-Brexit tariffs apply. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most complex market due to Section 301 tariffs.
-3214.10.00.10is the "Golden Code" for 0% duty.
-3824.90is a "Risk Code" due to tax uncertainty.
π Part 6: Common Errors & Pitfalls (Blood Lessons)
β Error 1: Classifying a caulk as 3824.90
π Consequence: Unnecessary pre-ruling process, potential delay. If misclassified, may face incorrect tax assessment.
β Error 2: Classifying a cement-based weather mortar as 3214.10
π Consequence: 28.25% tax if it doesn't fit "putty/mastic" definition, or penalties for misclassification.
β Error 3: Assuming 3824.90 has 0% tax
π Consequence: Back taxes and fines. The tax data is marked "Error," meaning it is not 0%.
β Correct Approach:
"Weather-Resistant Resin Cement Caulk, for Exterior Facade Sealing, Model ABC" β
3214.10.00.10(0% Tax)
"Advanced Polymer-Modified Weather-Resistant Mortar, for Structural Bonding" β3824.90(Apply for Pre-Ruling)
π― Part 7: Conclusion: Precision Classification, Cost Savings, Risk Mitigation
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Putty & Caulk β 3214.10 (0% Tax)"
πΉ "Other Mastics β 3214.90 (28.25% Tax)"
πΉ "Special Mortar β 3824.90 (Uncertain Tax β GET PRE-RULING)"
π Pro Tip:
If your product is a traditional glazing putty or window caulk, insist on classification under 3214.10.00.10 to save 28.25% in duties.
If it's a specialized weather-resistant mortar, do not guess. Submit a Product Sample + Spec Sheet to CBP for an Advance Ruling before shipping.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Customs Broker
π Prepare MSDS & Product Specs
π Apply for CBP Pre-Ruling for3824.90productsYour duty savings start with accurate HS Code classification!
β¨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Dollar Saved is a Dollar Earned!
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.