HS Code for Melamine formaldehyde resin

Melamine formaldehyde resin is classified under HS code 3909.20, which falls within Chapter 39 of the Harmonized System covering plastics and articles thereof. Specifically, Heading 3909 covers amino-resins, phenolic resins, and polyurethanes in primary forms. Melamine resins are a type of amino-resin formed by the condensation of melamine with formaldehyde. The term "primary forms" is strictly defined in Note 6 to Chapter 39 and includes liquids, pastes, blocks, lumps, powders, granules, and similar bulk forms. This classification is based on the chemical composition of the polymer. Melamine formaldehyde is valued for its hardness, heat resistance, and chemical stability, often used in the production of laminates, molding compounds, and coatings. It is crucial to distinguish the resin in its raw, primary form from finished articles made from the resin, as the latter are classified elsewhere based on their function or form. For example, a bag of melamine resin powder used for industrial molding is 3909.20, but a melamine plate is 3924.10. The classification remains 3909.20 even if the resin contains additives like fillers (e.g., wood flour or cellulose), pigments, or plasticizers, provided the melamine resin remains the essential polymer component. This code is used globally to track the trade of these thermosetting plastics, which are vital in the construction, automotive, and kitchenware industries. Importers should provide a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to confirm the chemical identity as a melamine-based amino-resin.

Products Included

• Melamine formaldehyde molding powder
• Liquid melamine resin for laminating
• Melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) resins
• Granular melamine resin with cellulose filler
• Melamine resin solutions in organic solvents

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with 3909.10, which is for urea resins. While both are amino-resins, they have different chemical structures and properties. Another error is classifying finished products, like melamine tableware, under this code; finished goods belong in 3924.10. Additionally, melamine chemical (the monomer) is classified in 2933.61, not 3909.20.

FAQ

What is the HS code for melamine formaldehyde resin?

The HS code is 3909.20, which covers melamine resins in primary forms such as powders, granules, or liquids.

Is finished melamine dinnerware classified under this code?

No, finished dinnerware is classified under HS code 3924.10. Code 3909.20 is only for the raw resin material in its primary form.