HS Code for Auxiliary washing agent
Auxiliary washing agents are classified under HS code 3402.90. Chapter 34 deals with organic surface-active agents and washing preparations. Heading 3402 covers these agents and preparations, whether or not they contain soap, excluding those of heading 3401. Subheading 3402.90 is a residual category for preparations that are not put up for retail sale. These products are typically used in industrial or commercial settings as additives to enhance the cleaning process, such as wetting agents, emulsifiers, or specialized degreasers. They differ from standard detergents in that they are often concentrated or formulated for specific industrial applications rather than general household use. The classification depends on the chemical composition as a surface-active preparation and its packaging for non-retail distribution. According to the Explanatory Notes to heading 3402, auxiliary preparations are used for soaking, bleaching, or softening clothes or other materials during the washing process.
Products Included
- Industrial textile scouring agents
- Wetting agents for industrial cleaning
- Commercial laundry boosters and softeners
- Emulsifiers used in industrial degreasing
- Pre-soaking preparations for commercial use
Common Misclassification
A common misclassification occurs with HS code 3402.20, which is for preparations put up for retail sale. If the auxiliary washing agent is packaged for the general consumer market, it must be classified under 3402.20. Another error involves HS code 3824.99, which is a general category for chemical products. However, because 3402 specifically covers surface-active preparations, it is the more specific and correct heading. Finally, products that are purely soap should be classified under 3401 rather than 3402.
FAQ
What is the HS code for auxiliary washing agent?
The HS code for auxiliary washing agents not put up for retail sale is 3402.90.
What defines "retail sale" for this classification?
Retail sale refers to packaging that is intended for sale to the end-consumer, typically in smaller quantities with consumer-oriented labeling, as opposed to bulk industrial drums.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Auxiliary washing agent?
The HS code for Auxiliary washing agent is 340290 (Washing and cleaning preparations; surface-active, whether or not containing soap (excluding those of heading no. 3401), including auxiliary washing preparations, not for retail sale).
How do I classify Auxiliary washing agent for customs?
Auxiliary washing agent is classified under HS code 340290 — Washing and cleaning preparations; surface-active, whether or not containing soap (excluding those of heading no. 3401), including auxiliary washing preparations, not for retail sale. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Auxiliary washing agent the same in all countries?
The base HS code 340290 for Auxiliary washing agent is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.