HS Code for Industrial detergent
Industrial detergents are classified under HS code 3402.90 according to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1 and 6. This heading covers organic surface-active agents, surface-active preparations, washing preparations, and cleaning preparations, whether or not containing soap. The sub-heading 3402.90 is designated for preparations that are not put up for retail sale. The classification logic is based on the chemical function of the product—reducing surface tension to facilitate cleaning—and its commercial presentation. Unlike household detergents, industrial variants are typically sold in bulk containers, high concentrations, or specialized formulations intended for manufacturing plants, hospitals, or professional cleaning services. The absence of retail packaging is the primary legal determinant for this specific code, as it distinguishes these bulk preparations from consumer-grade products found in 3402.20.
Products Included
- Bulk liquid degreasers for factory machinery
- Concentrated industrial laundry detergents for hospitality use
- Heavy-duty alkaline floor cleaners for warehouses
- Acidic descaling agents for industrial boilers
- Metal surface cleaning preparations used in electroplating
Common Misclassification
Industrial detergents are frequently confused with HS code 3402.20, which covers preparations put up for retail sale. The distinction lies entirely in the packaging and intended end-user; if the product is labeled and sized for individual consumer use, it must be moved to 3402.20. Additionally, products that are purely organic surface-active agents (not preparations) may be misclassified here but should actually fall under 3402.11, 3402.12, 3402.13, or 3402.19 depending on their ionic character. Another common error involves soap-based cleaners; if the product consists primarily of soap in the form of bars or cakes, it belongs under 3401.11.
FAQ
What is the HS code for industrial detergent?
The primary HS code for industrial detergent not put up for retail sale is 3402.90.
Does this code include disinfectants?
No, if the product's primary function is antimicrobial or disinfectant rather than cleaning, it is generally classified under heading 3808.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Industrial detergent?
The HS code for Industrial detergent is 340290 (Washing and cleaning preparations; surface-active, whether or not containing soap (excluding those of heading no. 3401), including auxiliary washing preparations, not for retail sale).
How do I classify Industrial detergent for customs?
Industrial detergent is classified under HS code 340290 — Washing and cleaning preparations; surface-active, whether or not containing soap (excluding those of heading no. 3401), including auxiliary washing preparations, not for retail sale. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Industrial detergent the same in all countries?
The base HS code 340290 for Industrial detergent is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.