modified ptfe dispersion
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3901909000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3904610090 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3901905501 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3914006000 | 38.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3904610010 | 40.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
π Modified PTFE Dispersion (Polychlorotrifluoroethylene & Related Fluoropolymers)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
π Part I: Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly is "Modified PTFE Dispersion"?
Modified PTFE Dispersion refers to a fluid form of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or its modified derivatives, where the polymer particles are suspended in a carrier medium (usually water or organic solvents). Unlike solid pellets, this is a liquid/emulsion state, primarily used for coating, impregnation, or sintering into specific shapes.
In international trade, the classification depends heavily on the chemical structure (whether it is pure PTFE or a copolymer/modified version) and the form (primarily shaped vs. other).
β οΈ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is a liquid dispersion/emulsion and not in a primary solid shape (pellets, powder), it generally falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and Articles Thereof), specifically heading 3904 (Fluoropolymers) or 3901 (Ethylene polymers) depending on the base polymer.
- The term "Modified" often implies a copolymer or an additive blend, which can shift classification between 3904 (Pure/Simple Fluoropolymers) and 3901 (Other Ethylene Polymers) or 3914 (Ion Exchangers/Others).
- Primary Shape vs. Other: While PTFE is often sold as pellets (primary shape), dispersions are technically "other" forms unless specifically defined as such in national subheadings. However, some codes listed below treat specific granular/powdered variants under "primary shape" interpretations for duty purposes.
π¦ Part II. HS Code Classification Matrix (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicable Scenario | Material Category |
|---|---|---|---|
3901.90.90.00 |
Modified PTFE Particles, belonging to the fluoropolymer category, in granular form, conforming to primary/initial shape. | Modified PTFE granules/powders intended for sintering. | β Ethylene Polymer Category |
3904.61.00.90 |
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Particles, conforming to fluoropolymer classification, falling under "other" categories of this code. | Standard PTFE emulsion/powder residues or non-standard granules. | β Pure Fluoropolymer (PTFE) |
3901.90.55.01 |
Modified PTFE Particles, conforming to primary shape definition, belonging to the polymer category under ethylene copolymers. | Specific modified PTFE copolymers classified as ethylene derivatives. | β Ethylene Copolymer |
3914.00.60.00 |
Polytetrafluoroethylene Particles, belonging to the polymer range, conforming to primary form, classified under ion exchange resins - other. | Specialized PTFE forms misclassified or broadly categorized under "other polymers/ion exchangers" for specific trade zones. | β Other Polymer/Ion Exchange |
3904.61.00.10 |
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Granular, fully conforming to material and granular morphology requirements. | Standard PTFE granular product, clearly defined as granular. | β Pure Fluoropolymer (PTFE) |
π Important Note:
- "Dispersion" vs. "Particle/Granule": The data provided (3901.90.90.00, etc.) describes particles/granules. If you are importing a liquid dispersion (emulsion), customs may require conversion or specific subheadings for "emulsions" within 3904 or 3901. However, the selected codes below reflect the solid/powdered state often used for final product manufacturing, as indicated in the source data.
- "Modified" Impact: Modified PTFE often loses its "pure PTFE" status, pushing it into 3901 (Ethylene-based) or 3914 (Other), which have different duty structures than pure 3904.
π° Part III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Additions)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Post-2025 Trade Policy Enactment
π― 1. 3901.90.90.00 ββ Modified PTFE Particles (Ethylene Polymer Category)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No (High tariff threshold) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3901.90.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- This code classifies modified PTFE as an ethylene polymer. The base rate is higher than pure fluoropolymers.
- The 41.5% total includes the standard 6.5% MFN rate, the heavy 25% Section 301 tariff on Chinese goods, and an additional 10% under Section 122 (or similar emergency powers).
- Risk: High. Any misclassification to pure PTFE (3904) could lead to penalties, but pure PTFE also faces high tariffs.
π― 2. 3904.61.00.90 ββ Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Particles (Other)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3904.61.00.90 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- Cheapest Option in the list.
- Classified as "Other" PTFE particles. If your product is unmodified or minimally modified pure PTFE, this is the optimal code.
- The base rate (5.8%) is slightly lower than3901.90.90.00(6.5%).
- Critical: Must prove the product is PTFE and not a complex ethylene copolymer.
π― 3. 3901.90.55.01 ββ Modified PTFE Particles (Ethylene Copolymer)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.5% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 41.5% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3901.90.55.01 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- Specific subheading for ethylene copolymers that are modified PTFE variants.
- Same total rate as3901.90.90.00. Use this only if the product fits the specific "ethylene copolymer" definition in local subheadings.
π― 4. 3914.00.60.00 ββ Polytetrafluoroethylene Particles (Other Category)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 38.9% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 38.9% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3914.00.60.00 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- Lowest Base Rate (3.9%).
- Classified under "Ion Exchange Agents and Other Polymers..." as "Other".
- Risk: High risk of reclassification. Customs may argue PTFE is a fluoropolymer (3904) and not an ion exchanger/other polymer. Use with caution and strong technical justification.
π― 5. 3904.61.00.10 ββ Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Granular (Specific)
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.8% |
| USITC Surcharge (Section 301) | +25.0% |
| > IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Tariff Rate | 40.8% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 40.8% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | β No |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:3904.61.00.10 β FOOTNOTE:301 β IEEPA:122 |
π Explanation:
- Specific granular form of PTFE.
- Identical rate to3904.61.00.90.
- Use if the product is strictly granular and not a fine powder or emulsion.
π οΈ Part IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Field Survival Guide)
β 1. Document Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | βοΈ | Must clearly state: Chemical Formula (e.g., C2F4)n, Form (Dispersion/Particle), Modifier Type. |
| β MSDS/SDS | βοΈ | Shows safety info; confirms no hazardous additives that change classification. |
| β Certificate of Origin | βοΈ | Essential for 301/122 surcharge verification. |
| β Product Photos (Clear) | βοΈ | Show state (powder/granule/liquid). If liquid, label as "Emulsion/Dispersion". |
| β Formula/Composition Breakdown | βοΈ | Crucial for "Modified" vs. "Pure" distinction. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must describe item accurately: "Modified PTFE Granules for [Application]". |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Pure PTFE is 3904, Modified is 3901/3914, Granules vs. Powders matter!"
| Scenario | Recommended Code | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Unmodified PTFE Powder/Granules | 3904.61.00.10 / .90 |
Pure fluoropolymer, lowest risk for 3904 classification. |
| Modified PTFE (Copolymer/Additives) | 3901.90.90.00 / .55.01 |
"Modified" often shifts to ethylene polymer category (3901). |
| Specialty "Other" Polymer PTFE | 3914.00.60.00 |
Only if you have strong legal basis for "Ion Exchange/Other" category. Low base rate but high audit risk. |
| Liquid Dispersion (Emulsion) | Check 3904 Subheadings | The provided data focuses on particles. If importing liquid, ensure it's not misdeclared as solid. |
β οΈ Pitfall Alert:
- Do not declare "Liquid Dispersion" under codes that explicitly say "Particles" or "Granules" (3904.61.00.10) without clarification. Customs may reject it as "Not Matching Description."
- "Modified": If you claim "Modified" but it's pure PTFE, you face penalties for under-declaration. If you claim "Pure" but it's modified, you face penalties for over-declaration. Be precise.
β 3. Special Cases & Mitigation
| Case | Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label PTFE | Provide contract showing formulation. If modified, disclose modifiers. |
| Mix of PTFE and Fillers (e.g., Carbon, Graphite) | If fillers change the essential character, it may move to 3916/3920 (Sheets/Films) or stay in 3904 if <20% filler. Check 3904 notes. |
| Small Samples (<$800) | De Minimis Exemption Likely Blocked due to high tariff base and 301/122 rules. Assume 40%+ tax applies even for samples. |
| Re-export from Third Country | If processed in Vietnam/Mexico, apply for Preferential Treatment (USMCA/FTA) to bypass 301/122 surcharges. |
π Part V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Overview)
| Region | Preferred HS Code | Est. Total Duty (China Origin) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3904.61.00.10 / .90 |
40.8% | High scrutiny on "Modified" status. 301+122 tariffs apply. |
| π¨π³ China | 3904.61.00.00 |
10-12% | Import tariff + VAT. No 301 surcharge. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3904.61.00 |
6.5% | Standard MFN. No US-style surcharges. |
| π¬π§ UK | 3904.61.00 |
6.5% | Post-Brexit tariff. No 301. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3904.61.00 |
6.0% | No surcharges. |
π Conclusion:
- The US market is the most expensive for PTFE/Modified PTFE imports due to the 40-41.5% effective rate.
- Cost Optimization: Consider sourcing from Vietnam or Malaysia (if PTFE processing occurs there) to leverage trade agreements and avoid Section 301/122 tariffs.
- Documentation is Key: Clearly distinguish between "Pure PTFE" and "Modified PTFE" to avoid customs delays.
π Part VI. Common Errors & Lessons Learned (Blood & Tears)
β Error 1: Declaring "Liquid PTFE Dispersion" as "PTFE Granules"
π Consequence: Customs inspection reveals liquid. Seizure or massive delay. Liquid must be declared under appropriate emulsion subheadings if different.
β Error 2: Ignoring "Modified" additives
π Consequence: If PTFE is modified with silicone or carbon, it might not be pure 3904. Misclassification leads to back-taxes + penalties.
β Error 3: Assuming De Minimis ($800) applies
π Consequence: 40%+ tax applies even to small shipments from China. Budget accordingly.
β Error 4: Using generic name "Plastic Particles"
π Consequence: Customs assigns wrong code, leading to audits. Always specify "Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)".
β Correct Practice:
"Modified Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Granules, 100% Fluoropolymer, For Sintering, Non-Hazardous, MSDS Attached, Origin: China"
π― Part VII. Conclusion: Precision in Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Motto:
πΉ "Pure PTFE is 3904, Modified is 3901, Tax is 40%, Docs are 100%!"
πΉ "Don't Guess 'Modified', Prove It. Don't Guess 'Dispersion', Show It."
π Pro Tip:
If your Modified PTFE is produced in a USMCA Country (Canada/Mexico) or ASEAN Country, apply for Preferential Tariff Treatment. You could reduce the duty from 41.5% to 0% or Low Single Digits.
Action Item:
π Contact Customs Broker + Provide Technical Specs + Apply for HTS Code Ruling
π Clear Customs Smoothly, Minimize Tax Burden, Maximize Profit!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Percent Saved is Pure Profit!
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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.