HS Code for Polymer paint
Polymer paint is classified under HS code 3209.90 when it consists of paints and varnishes based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous (water-based) medium. Heading 3209 specifically covers water-based coatings. The subheading 3209.90 is a residual category for paints based on polymers other than acrylic or vinyl polymers (which are covered under 3209.10). This classification is determined by two primary factors: the solvent/medium (water) and the type of polymer binder used. If the paint uses a binder such as a polyurethane, epoxy resin, or alkyd resin, but is dispersed in water, it falls here. The classification process involves analyzing the chemical composition of the binder and the nature of the volatile medium. According to the Explanatory Notes to Chapter 32, these products include emulsions or dispersions where the polymer is the film-forming agent. The distinction between water-based and solvent-based is critical, as solvent-based paints fall under heading 3208.
Products Included
- Water-based epoxy paints
- Aqueous polyurethane varnishes
- Water-dispersed alkyd coatings
- Polymer-based emulsion paints (non-acrylic)
- Water-borne industrial coatings
Common Misclassification
The most common misclassification is with 3209.10, which is specifically for acrylic or vinyl polymer-based paints. Many users assume all water-based "latex" paints are 3209.10, but if the binder is a different polymer, 3209.90 is required. Another error is 3208.90, which covers similar polymer paints but dissolved in non-aqueous (solvent) media. If the water content is less than 50% of the solvent weight, it might be considered solvent-based. Additionally, 3210.00 is sometimes used for "other" paints, but 3209 is more specific for water-based polymer systems. Proper identification of the solvent is the first step in avoiding these errors.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Polymer paint?
The HS code for water-based polymer paint (other than acrylic or vinyl) is 3209.90.
What defines an aqueous medium in paint classification?
An aqueous medium is one where water is the primary volatile component, typically making up more than 50% of the solvent weight in the liquid phase.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Polymer paint?
The HS code for Polymer paint is 320990 (Paints and varnishes; (based on polymers other than acrylic or vinyl), dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium).
How do I classify Polymer paint for customs?
Polymer paint is classified under HS code 320990 — Paints and varnishes; (based on polymers other than acrylic or vinyl), dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Polymer paint the same in all countries?
The base HS code 320990 for Polymer paint is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.