HS Code for Stearyl alcohol

Stearyl alcohol, also known as octadecan-1-ol, is classified under HS code 2905.17. This classification is found within Chapter 29, which covers organic chemicals. Heading 2905 specifically addresses acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulfonated, nitrated, or nitrosated derivatives. Subheading 2905.17 is a specific designation for saturated monohydric alcohols, specifically dodecan-1-ol (lauryl alcohol), hexadecan-1-ol (cetyl alcohol), and octadecan-1-ol (stearyl alcohol). For a product to be classified under this code, it must be a separate chemically defined compound of high purity, typically 90% or higher by weight. Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol commonly used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The classification is determined by the chemical structure (a straight-chain saturated alcohol with 18 carbon atoms) and the purity of the substance.

Products Included

• Pure octadecan-1-ol
• Stearyl alcohol (chemically pure)
• USP/NF grade stearyl alcohol
• Octadecyl alcohol
• Saturated C18 fatty alcohol

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification for stearyl alcohol is HS code 3823.70, which covers industrial fatty alcohols. The distinction lies in the purity and composition; if the product is a mixture of various fatty alcohols (such as a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohol, often called cetearyl alcohol), it must be classified under 3823.70. Only the pure, single-component alcohol belongs in 2905.17. It may also be confused with stearic acid (3823.19), which is a fatty acid rather than an alcohol.

FAQ

What is the HS code for stearyl alcohol?

The HS code for chemically pure stearyl alcohol (octadecan-1-ol) is 2905.17.

What if the stearyl alcohol is mixed with cetyl alcohol?

If it is a mixture of fatty alcohols, it is classified under HS code 3823.70 as industrial fatty alcohols rather than a pure chemical.