HS Code for Bar soap

Bar soap for toilet use is classified under HS code 340111. This classification encompasses soap and organic surface-active products that are shaped into bars, cakes, or molded forms and are specifically intended for personal hygiene, bathing, or hand washing. According to the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 34, this heading includes medicated soaps (such as those containing disinfectants or sulfur) and soaps that have added perfumes or moisturizers. The classification is determined by the product's physical state (solid) and its end-use (toiletries). The chemical definition of soap under this heading refers to the alkali salts of fatty acids. Even if the bar contains synthetic detergents (syndet bars), it remains under 340111 as long as it is intended for toilet use and presented in the specified solid forms. This code is vital for ensuring compliance with cosmetic regulations and health standards in many jurisdictions.

Products Included

• Scented bath soap bars
• Medicated toilet soap cakes
• Antibacterial hand soap bars
• Glycerin-based transparent soap bars
• Syndet (synthetic detergent) bars for personal washing

Common Misclassification

Bar soap is frequently misclassified under 340119, which is reserved for laundry or industrial soap bars. The distinction is based on the intended use; 340111 is for the body, while 340119 is for objects. Another common mistake is using 340120, which covers soap in other forms like flakes, granules, or powders. If the soap is liquid or cream and packaged for retail sale, it should be classified under 340130. Additionally, specialty skin treatments that do not contain soap or surfactants might fall under 3304 (beauty or skin-care preparations).

FAQ

What is the HS code for bar soap?

The HS code for bar soap intended for toilet or personal use is 340111.

Are hotel-sized soaps classified differently?

No, small guest soaps or hotel-sized bars are still classified under 340111 as they are molded bars intended for toilet use.