HS Code Subheading

Waxes; artificial and prepared, other than of polyethylene glycol

3404.90 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 340490

This code covers other artificial and prepared waxes, excluding those of poly(oxyethylene). This broad category includes a diverse range of synthetic waxes such as microcrystalline waxes, Fischer-Tropsch waxes, oxidized polyethylene waxes, and various blends of synthetic paraffins. These waxes are engineered for specific properties like hardness, melting point, gloss, or barrier characteristics, making them indispensable in industries such as coatings, polishes, adhesives, plastics, textiles, and packaging. International trade involves specialty chemical companies supplying manufacturers across numerous sectors. Importers often require waxes with tailored performance for their production processes, while exporters leverage advanced synthesis and blending technologies. Key aspects include technical specifications, application performance, and compliance with industry standards.

Products Under This Code

Microcrystalline wax, Fischer-Tropsch wax, Oxidized polyethylene wax, Synthetic paraffin wax, Polypropylene wax, Amide waxes, PTFE waxes

Real World Examples

Sasolwax, Evonik Vestowax, Honeywell A-C Wax, BASF Luwax, Clariant Licowax

Common Misclassification

These waxes can be confused with natural waxes (Chapter 15) or PEG waxes (340420). The key distinction is their artificial or prepared nature and the specific chemical composition, excluding poly(oxyethylene).

Products Classified Under 3404.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Germany, the United States, and China are leading exporters of these diverse artificial waxes, with global manufacturing industries being primary importers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 340490?

HS code 340490 covers: Waxes; artificial and prepared, other than of polyethylene glycol. This code covers other artificial and prepared waxes, excluding those of poly(oxyethylene). This broad category includes a diverse range of synthetic waxes such as microcrystalline waxes, Fischer-Tropsch waxes, oxidized polyethylene waxes, and various blends of synthetic paraffins. These waxes are engineered for specific properties like hardness, melting point, gloss, or barrier characteristics, making them indispensable in industries such as coatings, polishes, adhesives, plastics, textiles, and packaging. International trade involves specialty chemical companies supplying manufacturers across numerous sectors. Importers often require waxes with tailored performance for their production processes, while exporters leverage advanced synthesis and blending technologies. Key aspects include technical specifications, application performance, and compliance with industry standards.

What products fall under HS code 340490?

Microcrystalline wax, Fischer-Tropsch wax, Oxidized polyethylene wax, Synthetic paraffin wax, Polypropylene wax, Amide waxes, PTFE waxes

What are common misclassifications for HS code 340490?

These waxes can be confused with natural waxes (Chapter 15) or PEG waxes (340420). The key distinction is their artificial or prepared nature and the specific chemical composition, excluding poly(oxyethylene).

How is HS code 340490 structured?

HS code 340490 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (34) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (04) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.