About HS Code 320820
This category includes paints and varnishes based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous (solvent-based) medium. These coatings are highly versatile, offering fast drying times, good weatherability, and excellent adhesion to various substrates. They are extensively used in automotive refinishing, industrial maintenance coatings, traffic paints, and protective finishes for metal and plastic. The solvent-based nature provides specific application advantages and performance characteristics compared to their water-based counterparts. International trade involves major paint and coating manufacturers. Importers are typically automotive repair shops, construction companies, and industrial facilities requiring durable and quick-drying finishes, while exporters are often nations with strong chemical and manufacturing capabilities.
Products Under This Code
Acrylic automotive paints, vinyl industrial coatings, solvent-based acrylic lacquers, traffic paints (vinyl-based), protective acrylic varnishes, marine vinyl coatings, sign paints
Real World Examples
Axalta Cromax (automotive), PPG Delfleet (commercial transport), Rust-Oleum Industrial Choice, Sherwin-Williams ProMar, Hempel Hempadur
Common Misclassification
Often confused with water-based acrylic/vinyl paints (3209.10) due to the polymer type, but the key distinction is the 'non-aqueous medium' (solvent-based).
Products Classified Under 3208.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.
Trade Overview
USA, Germany, and China are major exporters, catering to global demand from construction, automotive, and industrial sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 320820?
HS code 320820 covers: Paints and varnishes; based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium. This category includes paints and varnishes based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous (solvent-based) medium. These coatings are highly versatile, offering fast drying times, good weatherability, and excellent adhesion to various substrates. They are extensively used in automotive refinishing, industrial maintenance coatings, traffic paints, and protective finishes for metal and plastic. The solvent-based nature provides specific application advantages and performance characteristics compared to their water-based counterparts. International trade involves major paint and coating manufacturers. Importers are typically automotive repair shops, construction companies, and industrial facilities requiring durable and quick-drying finishes, while exporters are often nations with strong chemical and manufacturing capabilities.
What products fall under HS code 320820?
Acrylic automotive paints, vinyl industrial coatings, solvent-based acrylic lacquers, traffic paints (vinyl-based), protective acrylic varnishes, marine vinyl coatings, sign paints
What are common misclassifications for HS code 320820?
Often confused with water-based acrylic/vinyl paints (3209.10) due to the polymer type, but the key distinction is the 'non-aqueous medium' (solvent-based).
How is HS code 320820 structured?
HS code 320820 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (32) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.