Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Ethylene dichloride

2903.15 Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; ethylene dichloride (ISO) (1,2-dichloroethane)
Chemicals
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Ethylene dichloride (1,2-dichloroethane) is classified under HS code 2903.15. This classification is situated within heading 2903, which covers halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons. Subheading 2903.15 specifically identifies ethylene dichloride as a saturated chlorinated derivative of acyclic hydrocarbons. It is a colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. Ethylene dichloride is primarily produced by the chlorination of ethylene, either through direct chlorination or oxychlorination. It serves as a critical precursor in the production of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), which is the building block for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. The classification is determined by the presence of chlorine atoms substituting hydrogen in an ethane chain, making it a saturated chlorinated acyclic hydrocarbon. As a chemically defined organic compound, it fits perfectly into the structure of Chapter 29.

Products Included

  • 1,2-Dichloroethane (Ethylene dichloride)
  • High-purity EDC for VCM production
  • Ethylene dichloride used as a degreaser
  • Ethylene dichloride used as a solvent in textile cleaning
  • Ethylene dichloride used in the manufacture of ethylenediamine

Common Misclassification

Ethylene dichloride is often confused with vinyl chloride (HS code 2903.21). The key difference is that ethylene dichloride is a saturated compound (ethane-based), while vinyl chloride is an unsaturated compound (ethylene-based). It is also sometimes confused with chloroform (trichloromethane, HS code 2903.13) or carbon tetrachloride (HS code 2903.14). Another potential misclassification is with 1,1-dichloroethane, which is an isomer but is generally classified under the residual code 2903.19 if not specifically named elsewhere.

FAQ

What is the HS code for ethylene dichloride?

The HS code for ethylene dichloride is 2903.15, specifically for the 1,2-dichloroethane isomer.

Is ethylene dichloride the same as vinyl chloride?

No, ethylene dichloride (2903.15) is the saturated precursor used to make vinyl chloride (2903.21), which is an unsaturated gas used to make PVC.

Industry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Ethylene dichloride?

The HS code for Ethylene dichloride is 290315 (Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; ethylene dichloride (ISO) (1,2-dichloroethane)).

How do I classify Ethylene dichloride for customs?

Ethylene dichloride is classified under HS code 290315 — Saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons; ethylene dichloride (ISO) (1,2-dichloroethane). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Ethylene dichloride the same in all countries?

The base HS code 290315 for Ethylene dichloride is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.