HS Code for Herbicides

Herbicides are classified under HS code 3808.93. This classification is part of Chapter 38, which encompasses miscellaneous chemical products. Heading 3808 is designated for insecticides, rodenticides, fungicides, herbicides, anti-sprouting products, and plant-growth regulators. The classification under 3808.93 is specific to substances that are used to control or destroy unwanted vegetation. For a product to be classified here, it must be "put up in forms or packings for retail sale" or "as preparations or articles." This means that pure chemical compounds intended for use as herbicides are classified in Chapter 28 or 29 unless they are specifically prepared for herbicidal use or packaged for end-user consumption. The code 3808.93 also includes anti-sprouting products and plant-growth regulators, which are chemicals used to alter the physiological processes of plants, such as inhibiting the sprouting of potatoes or regulating the height of cereal crops. The classification process involves analyzing the active ingredients and the concentration, as well as the packaging. If a product contains multiple active ingredients, such as a herbicide mixed with a fertilizer, the classification may shift depending on which component gives the product its essential character. However, most standard weed killers found in hardware stores or used in industrial agriculture fall squarely within 3808.93.

Products Included

• Glyphosate-based weed killers
• Selective lawn herbicides
• Anti-sprouting agents for vegetables
• Plant growth hormones for agriculture
• Pre-emergent herbicides

Common Misclassification

Herbicides are sometimes misclassified under HS code 3105 if they are mixed with fertilizers. However, if the primary function is to kill weeds, 3808.93 is usually correct. Another error is using codes from Chapter 29 (e.g., 2901-2942) for pure chemicals; these only apply if the chemical is not yet formulated into a retail-ready herbicide preparation.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Herbicides?

The HS code for herbicides, anti-sprouting products, and plant-growth regulators is 3808.93.

Are plant growth regulators different from herbicides?

While they have different functions, they are grouped under the same HS subheading 3808.93 for customs purposes.