外壳清洁液
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3402903000 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824999397 | 40.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3824997000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402501100 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
🧴 Shell Surface Treatment Agent / Outer Case Cleaner (外壳清洁液)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Truly Understand "Shell Surface Treatment Agent"?
"Shell Surface Treatment Agent" (commonly referred to as Outer Case Cleaner or Surface Treatment Fluid) is a specialized chemical product used in industrial manufacturing, electronics assembly, and metal/plastic finishing processes. Its primary function is to clean, degrease, or prepare the surface of outer casings (made of metal, plastic, or alloy) before coating, painting, or assembly.
In international trade, its classification depends heavily on its chemical composition and primary function: * Surfactant-based Cleaners: If the product acts primarily as a cleaning agent containing surface-active agents (like detergents), it falls under Chapter 34. * Chemical Preparations: If the product is a specialized chemical mixture for surface preparation, electroplating support, or industrial processing, it falls under Chapter 38.
⚠️ Key Distinction Point: * If the product is a general cleaning/detergent solution → Likely 3402.90 or 3402.50. * If the product is a specialized chemical preparation for surface modification/electroplating → Likely 3824.99.
📦 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the four potential HS Codes for "Shell Surface Treatment Agent":
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Tax Category Logic |
|---|---|---|---|
3402.90.30.00 |
Surface-active preparations & cleaning preparations | General outer case cleaning, degreasing, surfactant-based fluids. | "Other" category under Chapter 34, no material conflict. |
3824.99.93.97 |
Chemical products & preparations (Miscellaneous) | Specialized chemical formulations for industrial surface treatment, non-specific chemical mixtures. | Fits "Chemical Industry" category; fits usage description for chemical preparations. |
3824.99.70.00 |
Electroplating chemicals, non-electrolytic solutions & other materials | Precise treatment for plastic and metal surface finishing, electroplating support fluids. | Specific use case: "Plastic/Metal Surface Treatment" aligns with this sub-heading. |
3402.50.11.00 |
Surfactant preparations / Cleaning preparations (Aromatic/Modified Aromatic) | Cleaning agents containing aromatic or modified aromatic components. | Inferenced based on chemical composition (aromatic elements). |
🔍 Key Reminder: * The difference between 3402 and 3824 often lies in whether the product is seen as a "cleaner/detergent" (34) or a "specialized chemical process aid" (38). * 3824.99.70.00 is often preferred if the agent is specifically for surface preparation for coating/plating rather than just removing dirt. * 3402.50.11.00 is highly specific to aromatic-based surfactants.
💰 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
✅ Applicable Country: USA (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Time: Post-November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)
🎯 1. 3402.90.30.00 —— Surfactant & Cleaning Preparations
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (USITC) | +25% |
| Section 122 Tariff (IEEPA) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 39.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Applicable (High tariff item) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 4.0% → 301: 25.0% → 122: 10.0% |
📌 Explanation: * This classification treats the product as a general cleaning agent. * Total Rate: 39%. High due to the叠加 (stacking) of base, 301, and 122 tariffs.
🎯 2. 3824.99.93.97 —— Miscellaneous Chemical Preparations
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (USITC) | +25% |
| Section 122 Tariff (IEEPA) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 40.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 40.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 5.0% → 301: 25.0% → 122: 10.0% |
📌 Note: * Classified under "Other Chemical Products." * Total Rate: 40%. Slightly higher than 3402 due to the higher base rate (5% vs 4%).
🎯 3. 3824.99.70.00 —— Electroplating/Plating Chemicals & Surface Treatment
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (USITC) | +25% |
| Section 122 Tariff (IEEPA) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 0.0% → 301: 25.0% → 122: 10.0% |
📌 Critical Advantage: * Lowest Base Rate: 0%. * Total Rate: 35%. This is the most tax-efficient classification if the product can be legally argued as a "chemical preparation for surface treatment" (especially for metals/plastics) rather than a simple cleaner. * Strategy: Provide technical data sheets highlighting its role in surface preparation for coating/plating, not just dirt removal.
🎯 4. 3402.50.11.00 —— Aromatic/Modified Aromatic Surfactants
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 4.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (USITC) | +25% |
| Section 122 Tariff (IEEPA) | +10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 39.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | ❌ Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 4.0% → 301: 25.0% → 122: 10.0% |
📌 Specific Use: * Only applicable if the product contains aromatic or modified aromatic compounds as its primary active ingredient. * Requires precise chemical analysis to substantiate this claim.
🛠️ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)
| Document | Mandatory? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Technical Data Sheet (TDS) | ✔️ | Must detail chemical composition, pH, viscosity, and primary function (cleaning vs. surface prep). |
| ✅ MSDS / SDS (Safety Data Sheet) | ✔️ | Critical for chemical classification. Check Section 3 (Composition) for aromatic content. |
| ✅ Product Photos | ✔️ | Show packaging, labeling, and product form (liquid, spray, etc.). |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clearly describe as "Shell Surface Treatment Agent" or "Metal/Plastic Surface Prep Chemical." Avoid vague terms like "Wiper Fluid." |
| ✅ Origin Certificate | ✔️ | If not from China, claim FTA benefits (though unlikely for these codes). |
| ✅ Usage Declaration | ✔️ | Explicitly state: "Used for surface preparation of [Metal/Plastic] cases prior to painting/coating." |
✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mantras)
🔥 "Function Defines Code: Cleaning = 34, Prep = 38. Aromatic = 3402.50, General = 3402.90."
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Action | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Degreaser | 3402.90.30.00 (39%) |
Declare as 3824 (35%) without proof |
Customs may reject; audit risk. |
| Surface Prep for Plating | 3824.99.70.00 (35%) |
Declare as 3402 (39%) |
Overpaying 4% on CIF! |
| Aromatic-based Cleaner | 3402.50.11.00 (39%) |
Declare as 3402.90 (39%) |
Same rate, but requires chemical proof. |
| Generic Chemical Mix | 3824.99.93.97 (40%) |
Declare as 3824.99.70 (35%) |
Risk of penalty if not truly for plating/prep. |
✅ 3. Special Handling Cases
| Case | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Custom Formula | Provide exact ingredient list. If >10% aromatic, use 3402.50.11.00. |
| Multi-function Agent | If it cleans AND prepares, argue for 3824.99.70.00 (35%) as it adds value (surface prep). |
| Hazardous Chemicals | Ensure SDS classifies it correctly. Some 3824 items may have stricter hazmat handling. |
| Small Volume Samples | No de minimis exemption. Even small shipments are subject to 35-40% tax. |
🌍 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Total Tax Rate (China Origin) | Certification/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3824.99.70.00 |
35% (Lowest) | Highest scrutiny on chemical origin. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 3824.99.93.97 |
5% | Standard import duty. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3824.99.97 |
6.5% | REACH compliance required. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 3824.99.97 |
6.0% | JIS standards may apply. |
📌 Conclusion: * USA is the critical market with high surcharges. * Optimal Strategy for USA: Aim for
3824.99.70.00to save 4-5% compared to 3402 codes. Justify it as a "surface preparation chemical" not just a "cleaner."
📌 6. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
❌ Error 1: Declaring as "Water" or "Simple Cleaner" 👉 Consequence: Misclassification, penalty, and potential seizure.
❌ Error 2: Using 3402 for a product that is clearly for electroplating surface prep
👉 Consequence: Paying 39% instead of 35%. Loss of profit margin.
❌ Error 3: Ignoring the "Aromatic" component
👉 Consequence: If aromatic, 3402.50.11.00 is more accurate. Using generic 3402.90 may trigger audits if chemical analysis differs.
❌ Error 4: No SDS or Technical Data 👉 Consequence: Customs cannot determine the correct sub-heading. Delays and storage fees.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Shell Surface Treatment Agent, Liquid, for Metal/Plastic Surface Preparation Prior to Coating, Chemically Formulated, Contains [X]% Active Ingredients, SDS Provided."
🎯 7. Conclusion: Professional Classification Saves Money!
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Prep = 38 (35%), Clean = 34 (39%). Aromatic = 3402.50. Fight for 3824.99.70!"
🔹 "Tax Rate Difference: 4-5%. On $1M shipment, that's $40k-$50k saved!"
📌 Pro Tip:
If your product contains aromatic solvents, ensure the MSDS reflects this to justify 3402.50.11.00 or avoid it if not necessary.
Always request an Advance Ruling from US Customs if the volume is large, to lock in the 35% rate for 3824.99.70.00.
📣 Take Action Now:
📞 Contact your freight forwarder + Provide TDS/SDS + Apply for HS Code Pre-ruling
🚀 Ensure your "Shell Cleaner" is classified as a "Surface Prep Chemical" to minimize tariffs!
✨ Professional Clearance, Starting with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every percentage point of tax is a point of 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.