HS Code for B20 fuel

B20 fuel is classified under HS code 2710.20 because it is a petroleum-based fuel blend containing biodiesel. According to the Harmonized System, heading 2710 covers petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals. Specifically, subheading 2710.20 was created to account for the increasing use of biodiesel blends in the global energy market. This code applies to preparations that contain, by weight, 70% or more of petroleum oils or oils from bituminous minerals, provided that biodiesel is also present in the mixture. Since B20 consists of approximately 80% petroleum diesel and 20% biodiesel, it meets the criteria of having at least 70% petroleum content while incorporating the biodiesel component. The classification follows General Interpretative Rule 1 and the specific subheadings of Chapter 27, which distinguish between pure petroleum products and those blended with renewable fuels. The inclusion of biodiesel, even at a 20% concentration, necessitates the use of this specific subheading rather than the general diesel codes found in 2710.19.

Products Included

• B20 Biodiesel blend (80% petroleum, 20% bio)
• Winterized B20 diesel fuel
• B20 Marine grade distillate
• B15 and B10 blends (often grouped here if not specified elsewhere)

Common Misclassification

One of the most frequent errors is classifying B20 under HS code 2710.19. While 2710.19 covers traditional diesel fuel, it is only appropriate for fuels that contain 0% biodiesel. As soon as biodiesel is introduced into the blend, the product must move to 2710.20, provided the petroleum content remains above 70%. Another common mistake is using HS code 3826.00. This code is reserved for pure biodiesel (B100) or mixtures where the petroleum oil content is less than 70% by weight. For instance, a B80 blend (80% biodiesel) would fall under 3826.00, whereas B20 must remain in Chapter 27 due to its high petroleum concentration.

FAQ

What is the HS code for B20 fuel?

The HS code for B20 fuel is 2710.20, which covers petroleum oils containing biodiesel with at least 70% petroleum content.

Can B20 be classified as a chemical product?

No, because it contains more than 70% petroleum oil, it is classified in Chapter 27 as a mineral fuel rather than in Chapter 38 as a chemical mixture.