HS Code for Alkylnaphthalenes

Alkylnaphthalenes are classified under HS code 3817.00, which covers mixed alkylbenzenes and mixed alkylnaphthalenes. This heading is located in Chapter 38, dedicated to miscellaneous chemical products. The classification specifically applies to mixtures of these hydrocarbons. Alkylnaphthalenes are produced through the alkylation of naphthalene, resulting in a mixture of isomers or compounds with different alkyl chain lengths. These mixtures are widely used in industrial applications, such as high-performance solvents, heat transfer fluids, and as precursors for synthetic lubricants or surfactants. According to the General Rules for Interpretation (GRI), specifically Rule 1, the product must meet the description of the heading. Heading 3817 excludes pure chemically defined isomers, which would instead fall under Chapter 29. It also excludes products obtained from the distillation of coal tar that meet the criteria for Chapter 27. Therefore, 3817.00 is the correct designation for synthetic industrial mixtures of alkylnaphthalenes.

Products Included

• Mixed monoalkylnaphthalenes
• Mixed dialkylnaphthalenes
• Synthetic hydrocarbon mixtures (naphthalene-based)
• Alkylnaphthalene-based heat transfer fluids
• Mixed alkylnaphthalene solvents

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification is HS code 2902.90, which covers "Other cyclic hydrocarbons." However, Chapter 29 is strictly for separate chemically defined organic compounds. If the product is a mixture of isomers, it is excluded from Chapter 29 and moved to 3817. Another frequent error is HS code 2707.50 or 2707.99, which covers oils and other products of the distillation of high-temperature coal tar. If the alkylnaphthalene is synthetic rather than a direct coal tar distillate, 3817.00 is the appropriate code.

FAQ

What is the HS code for mixed alkylnaphthalenes?

The HS code for mixed alkylnaphthalenes is 3817.00.00.

When should I use Chapter 29 instead of 3817?

You should use Chapter 29 (specifically 2902) only if the product is a single, pure, chemically defined isomer of alkylnaphthalene. If it is a commercial mixture of different alkylnaphthalenes, 3817.00 is required.