HS Code for Specialty grease

Specialty grease is classified under HS code 3403.99 because it falls under the category of lubricating preparations that do not contain petroleum oils or oils obtained from bituminous minerals. The Harmonized System distinguishes lubricants based on their chemical base. Heading 3403 covers preparations for the treatment of materials, but specifically excludes those containing 70% or more by weight of petroleum oils (which fall under Chapter 27). Subheading 3403.99 is a residual category for high-performance synthetic lubricants, including those based on silicones, esters, or synthetic hydrocarbons. These products are engineered for extreme environments, such as high-vacuum applications, extreme temperature ranges, or food-grade requirements, where traditional mineral-oil-based greases would fail or contaminate the process. Classification requires a thorough review of the product's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the absence of petroleum-derived components.

Products Included

• Synthetic silicone grease
• Fluorinated lubricants (PFPE)
• Ester-based specialty greases
• Food-grade synthetic lubricants
• Dry film lubricants without mineral oil
• High-vacuum grease

Common Misclassification

Specialty grease is frequently misclassified under HS code 2710.19, which is reserved for lubricants containing 70% or more petroleum oil. Another common error is using 3403.19, which applies to lubricating preparations that contain petroleum oils but in a concentration of less than 70%. The distinction rests entirely on the presence and percentage of mineral oil versus synthetic base stocks.

FAQ

What is the HS code for specialty grease?

The primary HS code for synthetic specialty grease containing no petroleum oil is 3403.99.

How do I distinguish between 3403.19 and 3403.99?

Code 3403.19 is used if the preparation contains any amount of petroleum oil (less than 70%), while 3403.99 is strictly for preparations that are entirely free of petroleum or bituminous oils.