低烟铸造胶粘剂
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3909505000 | 41.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3909400000 | 41.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3810905000 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3810902000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3506990000 | 37.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
🔥 Low Smoke Casting Binder (Adhesive)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Entry Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What is "Low Smoke Casting Binder"?
"Low Smoke Casting Binder" refers to chemical additives used in metal foundry processes (such as sand casting). Its primary function is to bind sand grains together to form mold cores or molds. The "Low Smoke" attribute indicates it is formulated to minimize toxic fumes during the curing or pouring process, often implying specific resin compositions like Phenolic, Urethane, or Amino resins, or specialized inorganic mixtures.
In international trade, classification hinges on two key factors: 1. Material Composition: Is it a raw resin (Chapter 39) or a prepared chemical mixture (Chapter 38/35)? 2. Function: Is it a structural adhesive (Chapter 35) or a foundry auxiliary agent (Chapter 38)?
⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If classified as a Raw Resin: It falls under Chapter 39 (Plastics and articles thereof).
- If classified as a Prepared Foundry Auxiliary: It falls under Chapter 38 (Miscellaneous chemical products).
- If classified as a General Adhesive: It falls under Chapter 35 (Animal glues; albuminoid substances; prepared glues).
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the five most probable classifications and their rationales:
| HS Code | Product Description | Matching Rationale (From Data) | Tax Category Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3909.50.50.00 | Other amino resins; polyurethanes | Material Inference: "Binder" implies core resin components (Polyurethane/Amino). No conflict with raw resin characteristics. | Primary Resin Classification |
| 3909.40.00.00 | Phenolic resins | Common Sense Logic: Casting binders are often Phenolic, Amino, or Urethane-based. Matches Phenolic resin category logically with no material conflict. | Specific Resin Classification |
| 3810.90.50.00 | Other auxiliary preparations for metal processing | Usage Attribute: Classified as "Chemical Preparations." "Binder" acts as an auxiliary material, fitting "Other auxiliary preparations." No conflict with metal processing use. | Metal Processing Auxiliary |
| 3810.90.20.00 | Prepared binders for metal casting/founding | Specific Use Case: Application is metal casting auxiliary preparation. Material inferred to contain inorganic components, fitting the "composed entirely of inorganic substances" fallback (or general auxiliary). | Foundry Specific Auxiliary |
| 3506.99.00.00 | Other prepared adhesives | Prepared Substance: It is a "prepared chemical adhesive." Although specific chemistry isn't defined, it is chemically synthesized/mixed, fitting "Other prepared adhesives." | General Adhesive Classification |
🔍 Critical Reminder:
- 3909.xxxx classes imply Raw Chemical Resins (higher base duty, but specific tax treatments apply).
- 3810.xxxx classes imply Specialized Industrial Auxiliaries (often lower base duty, but still subject to surcharges).
- 3506.xxxx classes imply General Adhesives (middle ground, based on preparation status).
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Country of Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 3909.50.50.00 —— Amino Resins / Polyurethanes (Raw Resin Class)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 6.3% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 41.3% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 41.3% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3909.50.50.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Explanation:
- 6.3% Base: Standard MFN duty for amino/polyurethane resins.
- 25% Section 301: Standard USITC additional duty for Chinese goods in this category.
- 10% IEEPA: Additional levy under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act targeting specific Chinese chemical inputs.
- Total 41.3%: A significant cost driver. Must be factored into landed cost analysis.
🎯 2. 3909.40.00.00 —— Phenolic Resins (Raw Resin Class)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 6.5% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 41.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 41.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3909.40.00.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Note:
- Slightly higher base rate (6.5%) than polyurethanes.
- Phenolic resins are very common in casting; ensure your Safety Data Sheet (SDS) accurately reflects "Phenolic" to avoid misclassification penalties.
🎯 3. 3810.90.50.00 —— Other Metal Processing Auxiliary Preparations
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 5.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 40.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3810.90.50.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Explanation:
- Lower base duty (5.0%) compared to resins.
- Classified under "Miscellaneous Chemical Products" as an auxiliary.
- Still subject to 35% total surcharges. Total 40% is competitive but not "duty-free."
🎯 4. 3810.90.20.00 —— Prepared Binders for Metal Casting
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0.0% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3810.90.20.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Key Advantage:
- Lowest Total Tax (35%) among the options.
- 0% Base Duty: This code suggests a specific "foundry binder" classification where the base import duty is waived.
- Caveat: Customs may scrutinize the "inorganic substance" claim. Ensure your product specification supports this classification (e.g., silicone-based or inorganic binders). If it's purely organic resin, this classification might be challenged.
🎯 5. 3506.99.00.00 —— Other Prepared Adhesives
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.1% (ad valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% |
| IEEPA Surcharge (Section 122) | +10.0% |
| Total Effective Rate | 37.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 37.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis Path | IEEPA:9903.01.25 → IEEPA:9903.01.24 → USITC:3506.99.00.00 → FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 |
📌 Explanation:
- Middle-ground tax rate.
- Classified as a general prepared glue.
- Less specific than 3810.90.20.00, which might invite closer scrutiny from CBP (Customs and Border Protection) regarding its "foundry-specific" nature.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance)
✅ 1. Essential Documentation Checklist
| Document | Required? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | ✔️ Mandatory | Must clearly state chemical composition (Resin type, inorganic/organic content). Critical for distinguishing between 3909, 3810, and 3506. |
| ✅ Product Specification | ✔️ | Detail the "Low Smoke" formulation (e.g., Silicon, Phenolic, Urethane). |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Describe as "Low Smoke Casting Binder for Metal Molding" or "Prepared Resin for Foundry Use." Avoid vague terms like "Glue." |
| ✅ Customs Ruling / Advance Ruling | ✔️ Recommended | Given the tax variance (35% vs 41.5%), a pre-ruling can provide certainty. |
| ✅ Usage Declaration | ✔️ | Explicitly state: "Used exclusively in metal casting/sand molding processes." |
✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantras)
🔥 "Specify the Chemistry, Define the Use, Avoid the 'Glue' Trap!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration Approach | Wrong Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Product is Resin-based (Phenolic/Urethane) | Use 3909.40.00.00 or 3909.50.50.00. Label as "Phenolic Resin for Casting." | Labeling as "Binder" only → Risk of 3810/3506 misclassification. |
| Product is Inorganic/Silicone-based | Use 3810.90.20.00. Label as "Inorganic Foundry Binder." | Labeling as "Organic Glue" → Risk of 3909 classification (Higher Base Duty). |
| Product is a Complex Mixture | Use 3810.90.50.00 or 3506.99.00.00. Label as "Prepared Auxiliary for Metal Processing." | Labeling as "Chemical Raw Material" → Risk of 3909 classification. |
📌 Strategic Tip:
If your product composition allows it, 3810.90.20.00 (35% Total Tax) is the most cost-effective option. To justify this: 1. Highlight the Foundry-Specific Use in the invoice. 2. Provide an SDS showing it is a "Preparation" rather than a "Raw Material." 3. If inorganic, emphasize the Inorganic Content to meet the specific sub-heading requirements.
✅ 3. Special Cases & Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Binder | Provide the customer's technical spec sheet proving it is formulated specifically for casting, not general industrial glue. |
| "Low Smoke" Certification | Include any environmental or emission test reports. This supports the "Specialized Preparation" argument for Chapter 38. |
| Mixed Shipments | If shipped with resins (3909) and binders (3810), separate the lines on the invoice. Mis-mixed entries can trigger audits for the entire shipment. |
🌍 V. Global Market Customs Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff Impact | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3810.90.20.00 |
35% (Best Rate) | No special certs, but SDS mandatory | High scrutiny on "Preparation" vs "Raw Material". |
| 🇨🇳 China | 3909.40.00.00 |
Variable | REACH/Similar chemical regs | Generally lower impact, focus on environmental compliance. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3909.40.00.00 |
0-6.5% | REACH Registration (EINECS/ELINCS) | "Low Smoke" may require VOC compliance proofs. |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 3810.90.00.00 |
5% | GHS Labeling | Standard chemical import rules apply. |
📌 Conclusion:
- USA imposes Section 301 and IEEPA surcharges on all chemical imports from China.
- The base duty is the primary lever for cost saving. 3810.90.20.00 offers the lowest base (0%), making it the strategic choice if product chemistry allows.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
❌ Error 1: Classifying "Low Smoke Binder" as a general glue under 3506.
👉 Consequence: 37.1% tax. While not the highest, it may trigger CBP scrutiny if the product is clearly specialized for foundry use (which prefers 3810).
❌ Error 2: Declaring a Prepared Mixture as a Raw Resin (3909).
👉 Consequence: Higher Base Duty (6.3-6.5%). If it's already mixed with curing agents or additives, it should be 3810 or 3506. Misclassification leads to underpayment penalties.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring the "Low Smoke" Chemical Composition.
👉 Consequence: If the "Low Smoke" property comes from inorganic silica or specific minerals, declaring it as an organic resin (3909) is factually incorrect and risks reclassification disputes.
❌ Error 4: Not separating "Raw Resin" shipments from "Finished Binder" shipments.
👉 Consequence: CBP may classify the entire mixed container under the highest-taxed item or deny entry for unclear description.
✅ Correct Action:
"Prepared Phenolic-Urethane Binder for Sand Casting, Low-Emission Formula, SDS Attached, HS 3810.90.20.00"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Efficiency, and Compliance
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Resin vs. Prep, Duty Diverges Fast!"
🔹 "0% Base + 35% Surcharge (3810) is King; 6% Base + 35% Surcharge (3909) is Heavy."
🔹 "SDS is Your Shield, Invoice is Your Sword!"
📌 Pro Tip:
If your binder contains silicone or inorganic components, aggressively pursue 3810.90.20.00 for the 0% base duty.
If it is purely organic resin, 3909.40.00.00 is the safest legal classification, despite the higher base rate.
Always apply for an Advance Ruling from CBP if the product is a novel "Low Smoke" formulation to avoid post-clearance audits.
📣 Immediate Action Required:
📞 Consult a licensed customs broker with your SDS and Formulation Details.
📄 Prepare a Technical Data Sheet highlighting the "Foundry Auxiliary" nature.
🚀 Secure the 35% Tax Bracket where possible to maximize margin in the US market.
✨ Precision in Classification Saves Thousands in Duties!
💼 Don't let ambiguous chemical names cost you profit.
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) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — 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 — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — 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.