HS Code for Engobe

Engobe, also known as ceramic slip, is classified under HS code 3207.20. Heading 3207 covers prepared pigments, opacifiers, and colors, vitrifiable enamels and glazes, engobes (slips), liquid lustres, and similar preparations of a kind used in the ceramic, enamelling, or glass industry. Engobes are specifically mentioned in the text of subheading 3207.20. An engobe is a coating of clay slip applied to a ceramic body to impart color, opacity, or a specific surface texture before firing. The classification is based on the chemical preparation and the intended use in the ceramics industry. These are not merely raw clays but are prepared mixtures that may include fluxes, pigments, and other chemical additives to ensure they bond correctly with the ceramic substrate during the vitrification process. According to the Explanatory Notes for heading 3207, these preparations are often in the form of powder, granules, or flakes, which are then mixed with water or other liquids before application. The vitrifiable nature of the preparation—meaning it forms a glass-like surface when heated—is a key characteristic of products in this subheading.

Products Included

• Ceramic engobes (slips)
• Vitrifiable glazes for tiles
• Vitrifiable enamels for glassware
• Clay-based decorative slips
• Prepared ceramic coatings

Common Misclassification

Engobes are sometimes misclassified under HS code 2507.00 (kaolin and other kaolinic clays) or 2508 (other clays). While engobes are clay-based, they are "prepared" mixtures containing chemical additives for the ceramic industry, which moves them from Chapter 25 (raw minerals) to Chapter 32 (chemical products). They may also be confused with 3207.10 (prepared pigments), but 3207.20 is the more specific code for slips and glazes that form a surface coating rather than just providing color.

FAQ

What is the HS code for engobe?

The HS code for engobe (ceramic slip) is 3207.20.

Is engobe the same as a ceramic glaze?

While they are classified under the same HS subheading (3207.20), they differ in composition; engobes are primarily clay-based, whereas glazes contain more flux and silica to create a glassy finish.