香氛织物柔顺剂
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3402505100 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402501100 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402501100 | 39.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3402505100 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
🌸 Fabric Softener with Fragrance (香氛织物柔顺剂)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2024 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Customs Strategy
📌 Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: What is "Fabric Softener"?
Fabric softener, often marketed as "fragrance softener" or "scented softener," is a final consumer product belonging to the category of surfactants and detergents. It is primarily composed of cationic surfactants and fragrance additives, designed to soften fabric, reduce static electricity, and impart a pleasant scent.
In international trade, classification depends heavily on the specific chemical composition and packaging form. The data indicates two primary HS Code paths based on whether the product is classified under specific chemical preparations or general washing agents.
⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If the product is considered a specific chemical preparation with a base tariff of 4.0% (often linked to specific formulation standards), it falls under3402.50.11.00.
- If the product is classified as a general washing agent/surfactant with a base tariff of 0.0%, it falls under3402.50.51.00.
📦 Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2024 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
| HS Code | Product Description | Application Scenario | Base Tariff |
|---|---|---|---|
3402.50.11.00 |
Fragrance Fabric Softener; Washing/Cleaning Agents based on common sense inference containing surfactants. | Consumer liquid detergents, specific surfactant formulations. | 4.0% |
3402.50.51.00 |
Fragrance Fabric Softener; Chemical preparations within the scope of surfactants and washing agents. | General washing agents, organic surfactant-based products. | 0.0% |
🔍 Key Reminder:
- The summary explicitly states that "Fragrance Fabric Softener belongs to surfactants/washing agents."
- Note on "Fragrance Tissue Softener": The data also references3402.50.11.00and3402.50.51.00for "Fragrance Tissue Softener," confirming that these HS codes cover both liquid fabric softeners and related cleaning/softening agents.
- Do not misclassify as simple "perfume" (Chapter 33); if it contains surfactants for cleaning/softening, it belongs in Chapter 34.
💰 Part 3: 2024 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtax & Policy Add-ons)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Status: Subject to Section 301 and Section 122 Tariffs
🎯 1. 3402.50.11.00 —— Fragrance Fabric Softener (Specific Surfactant Prep)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff (MFN) | 4.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (Add-on) | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff (122 Clause) | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 39.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 39.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ No (High tax rate typically excludes small packages from de minimis benefits in strict interpretations, though $800 rule applies if total value < $800. However, for commercial clearance, this is the rate). |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3402.50.11.00 → Section 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 → Section 122: USTR Announcement |
📌 Explanation:
- The 25% is the standard Section 301 tariff for most Chinese-origin goods in this category.
- The 10% is the "122 Clause" tariff (often related to specific trade remedy or emergency measures).
- Total: 39%. This is a significant cost burden.
🎯 2. 3402.50.51.00 —— Fragrance Fabric Softener (General Washing Agent)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff (MFN) | 0.0% |
| Section 301 Surtax (Add-on) | +25.0% |
| Section 122 Tariff (122 Clause) | +10.0% |
| Total Tax Rate | 35.0% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 35.0% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ No (Subject to same commercial clearance rules). |
| Legal Basis Path | HTSUS:3402.50.51.00 → Section 301: Footnote 9903.88.01 → Section 122: USTR Announcement |
📌 Note:
- Although the base tariff is 0%, the surtaxes remain identical (25% + 10%).
- The total rate is 35%, which is 4% lower than the3402.50.11.00classification.
- Strategic Implication: If your product’s chemical composition allows for classification under3402.50.51.00(as "other surfactant preparations"), you can save 4% on the total duty.
🛠️ Part 4: Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-negotiable)
| Document | Must Provide | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Must list active ingredients (e.g., quaternary ammonium compounds) to justify "surfactant" classification. |
| ✅ Ingredient Disclosure | ✔️ | Customs may request MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) to verify it is not a "cosmetic" or "food." |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Clear description: "Fabric Softener, Surfactant-Based, Scented." Avoid vague terms like "Laundry Liquid." |
| ✅ Packaging Photos | ✔️ | Show labels indicating use (fabric care, not skin care). |
| ✅ Formal Customs Declaration | ✔️ | Explicitly state HS Code and apply for Advance Ruling if unsure. |
✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Key Mnemonic)
🔥 "Surfactant is Key, Base Rate Varies, 35% or 39%, Choose Wisely!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Wrong Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Product contains cationic surfactants for fabric softening | 3402.50.11.00 (4% base) OR 3402.50.51.00 (0% base) |
Declare as "Cosmetic" or "Perfume" → Wrong Chapter |
| Product is dryer sheets (tissue-based) | 3402.50.11.00 or 3402.50.51.00 (based on data) |
Declare as "Paper Product" (Chapter 48) → Severe Misclassification |
| Liquid vs. Powder | Both fall under 3402.50, but ensure form matches description | Mixed declaration |
✅ 3. Special Case Handling
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label | Provide supply chain documentation to prove origin. Tariffs apply based on Country of Origin (China), not brand country. |
| Fragrance Content High | Ensure it doesn't exceed thresholds for "Flammable" goods (Class 3) which may require additional hazardous material fees. |
| Small Parcel (De Minimis) | If value < $800, it may enter duty-free under Section 321, but commercial shipments are fully taxed. Do not split large orders into small parcels to evade tax; this is fraud. |
🌍 Part 5: Global Market Clearance Comparison (2024 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 3402.50.11.00 / 3402.50.51.00 |
39% / 35% | EPA (if antimicrobial claims), CPSC | High surtax (35-39%) is critical. |
| 🇨🇳 China | 3402.50.11.00 / 3402.50.51.00 |
5% - 10% (Variable) | GB Standard Compliance | No additional surtaxes for export from China, but import into China follows local rates. |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 3402.50.40 (Similar) |
0% - 6.5% | REACH Registration | REACH compliance for surfactants is mandatory. No Section 301 tariffs. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | 3402.50.10 |
0% - 5% | CEPA (Chemicals) | CUSMA may apply for preferential rates if originating in NA. |
📌 Conclusion:
- The USA is the most expensive market due to Section 301 and Section 122 tariffs.
- Duty Savings Opportunity: Confirm if your product formulation qualifies for3402.50.51.00to save 4% on the total value.
- EU/Canada are more favorable due to lower base tariffs and no US-style surtaxes, but regulatory compliance (REACH, CEPA) is stricter.
📌 Part 6: Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned from Tears)
❌ Error 1: Classifying as "Perfume" (3307)
👉 Consequence: Wrong chapter, potential penalty, and misalignment with actual usage (cleaning/softening).
❌ Error 2: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
👉 Consequence: Under-declaring by omitting the 10% 122 Clause, leading to back-taxes and interest upon audit.
❌ Error 3: Confusing "Fabric Softener" with "Detergent"
👉 Consequence: While both are 3402, ensure the description highlights softening/surfactant properties, not just cleaning.
❌ Error 4: Using "Fragrance" as the primary name
👉 Consequence: Customs may suspect cosmetic goods. Always use "Fabric Softener" or "Laundry Conditioner" as the primary descriptor.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Liquid Fabric Softener, Cationic Surfactant-Based, Lavender Scent, for Home Laundry Use, Made in China"
🎯 Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Money, Stay Compliant!
🎯 Remember the Mnemonic:
🔹 "Surfactant is the Key, 35% or 39%, Don't Let 122 Slip Away!"
🔹 "Check Base Rate: 0% vs 4%, Save 4% if you Can!"
📌 Pro Tip:
If your product is re-packaged in Mexico, Vietnam, or Thailand, you may be eligible to avoid US surtaxes, but Rules of Origin must be strictly met (substantial transformation).
Recommendation: Apply for a Binding Ruling from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before the first shipment to lock in the correct HS Code and tariff rate.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Consult with a licensed customs broker
📄 Provide full ingredient disclosure
🚀 Secure your HS Code classification to optimize your landed cost!
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
💼 Every Percent Saved is Pure 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.