HS Code Subheading

Ethylene polymers; in primary forms, ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, having a specific gravity of less than 0.94

3901.40 Subheading
Section VII — Plastics and articles thereof; rubber and articles thereof

About HS Code 390140

This code specifically covers ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers in primary forms, characterized by a specific gravity of less than 0.94. This category predominantly includes Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), which offers superior tensile strength, puncture resistance, and flexibility compared to traditional LDPE. LLDPE is a critical material for flexible packaging, stretch films, heavy-duty bags, and rotational molding applications. Major importers and exporters are global petrochemical companies and plastic converters serving the packaging, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The trade is influenced by demand for durable and efficient packaging solutions. Traders should note the specific alpha-olefin (e.g., butene, hexene, octene) and its impact on material properties.

Products Under This Code

LLDPE pellets, LLDPE granules, film grade LLDPE, rotational molding grade LLDPE, stretch film grade LLDPE, geomembrane grade LLDPE

Real World Examples

Dow LLDPE, ExxonMobil Exceed, LyondellBasell Spherilene, SABIC LLDPE, INEOS LLDPE

Common Misclassification

Frequently confused with LDPE (390110) due to similar density ranges, but LLDPE has a linear structure with short, uniform branches, giving it distinct mechanical properties. Also, other ethylene copolymers in 390190.

Products Classified Under 3901.40

Industry

This code belongs to the Plastics & Rubber industry.

Trade Overview

The United States, China, and Saudi Arabia are key players in the global trade of LLDPE, owing to their significant petrochemical production capacities and large manufacturing bases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 390140?

HS code 390140 covers: Ethylene polymers; in primary forms, ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, having a specific gravity of less than 0.94. This code specifically covers ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers in primary forms, characterized by a specific gravity of less than 0.94. This category predominantly includes Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), which offers superior tensile strength, puncture resistance, and flexibility compared to traditional LDPE. LLDPE is a critical material for flexible packaging, stretch films, heavy-duty bags, and rotational molding applications. Major importers and exporters are global petrochemical companies and plastic converters serving the packaging, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The trade is influenced by demand for durable and efficient packaging solutions. Traders should note the specific alpha-olefin (e.g., butene, hexene, octene) and its impact on material properties.

What products fall under HS code 390140?

LLDPE pellets, LLDPE granules, film grade LLDPE, rotational molding grade LLDPE, stretch film grade LLDPE, geomembrane grade LLDPE

What are common misclassifications for HS code 390140?

Frequently confused with LDPE (390110) due to similar density ranges, but LLDPE has a linear structure with short, uniform branches, giving it distinct mechanical properties. Also, other ethylene copolymers in 390190.

How is HS code 390140 structured?

HS code 390140 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (39) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (40) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.