HS Code for SCCPs
Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) are classified under HS code 3824.89 because they are recognized as complex chemical mixtures containing halogenated hydrocarbons. Specifically, Chapter 38 covers miscellaneous chemical products, and heading 3824 includes chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries not elsewhere specified. Subheading 3824.89 was specifically introduced to track and control substances listed in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. SCCPs are defined as chlorinated hydrocarbons with a carbon chain length ranging from C10 to C13. Because these substances are typically traded as mixtures of various isomers and chlorination levels rather than pure, single-component chemicals, they fall under the 'mixtures' category of 3824 rather than the 'separate chemically defined compounds' of Chapter 29. The classification is determined by the carbon chain length and the fact that they are industrial preparations used as flame retardants or plasticizers in plastics, rubbers, and coatings.
Products Included
- Liquid short-chain chlorinated paraffins (C10-C13)
- Chlorinated alkanes used as extreme-pressure additives
- Flame retardant chemical preparations containing SCCPs
- Plasticizer mixtures for PVC containing chlorinated paraffins
- Metalworking fluids containing C10-C13 chlorinated hydrocarbons
Common Misclassification
SCCPs are frequently misclassified under HS code 2903.19, which covers other saturated chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons. However, 2903 is reserved for pure, chemically defined compounds, whereas SCCPs are almost always commercial mixtures. Another common error is using HS code 3824.99, the general 'other' category for chemical products. This is incorrect because 3824.89 is a specific provision for mixtures containing persistent organic pollutants. Furthermore, Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs, C14-C17) are often confused with SCCPs but should generally be classified under 3824.99 or 2903 depending on their composition, as they do not meet the C10-C13 definition of SCCPs.
FAQ
What is the HS code for SCCPs?
The primary HS code for short-chain chlorinated paraffins as mixtures is 3824.89.
Are MCCPs classified under the same code as SCCPs?
No, Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) do not fall under 3824.89; they are typically classified under 3824.99 or 2903.19 because they have a longer carbon chain (C14-C17).
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for SCCPs?
The HS code for SCCPs is 382489 (Chemical products, mixtures and preparations; containing goods specified in Subheading Note 3 to this Chapter; containing short-chain chlorinated paraffins).
How do I classify SCCPs for customs?
SCCPs is classified under HS code 382489 — Chemical products, mixtures and preparations; containing goods specified in Subheading Note 3 to this Chapter; containing short-chain chlorinated paraffins. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for SCCPs the same in all countries?
The base HS code 382489 for SCCPs is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.