HS Code for Soap powder

Soap powder is classified under HS code 340120, which specifically covers soap in forms other than bars, cakes, or molded shapes. According to the Harmonized System's General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), products are classified based on their chemical composition and physical form. Chapter 34 encompasses soap, organic surface-active agents, and washing preparations. Heading 3401 is dedicated to soap and organic surface-active products used as soap. While 3401.11 covers soap in traditional solid forms like bars or cakes, 3401.20 serves as the classification for soap in "other forms," which includes powders, flakes, and granules. To be classified here, the product must be a true soap—a salt of a fatty acid derived from the saponification of fats or oils with an alkali. This classification is critical for customs because it distinguishes traditional soap products from modern synthetic detergents, which are governed by different regulatory standards and duty rates. The powder must not contain synthetic organic surface-active agents as the primary active ingredient, as that would shift the classification to a different heading.

Products Included

• Industrial soap powder
• Laundry soap flakes
• Powdered hand soap (pure soap based)
• Soap granules for manufacturing
• Tallow-based soap powder

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 3402. This heading covers organic surface-active agents and washing preparations (detergents). Many modern "laundry powders" are actually synthetic detergents rather than true soaps and must be classified under 3402.90 or 3402.50. Additionally, soap in bars or cakes is classified under 3401.11, and liquid soap is often classified under 3401.30 if it is for skin washing.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Soap powder?

The HS code for soap powder is 340120, provided it is a true soap in powder or flake form.

Is laundry detergent the same as soap powder?

No, laundry detergent usually contains synthetic surfactants and is classified under HS code 3402, whereas soap powder is made from natural fats and oils and falls under 340120.