HS Code for Polyether Polyols
The HS Code for polyether polyols is 390720. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 6.1%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 390720 |
|---|---|
| US HTS (10-digit) | 3907200000 |
| EU CN Code (8-digit) | 39072000 |
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 6.1% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 6.5% |
| Chapter | 39 |
| Heading | 3907 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Polyethers, in primary forms: polyether alcohols
HS Code 390720 covers polyether alcohols in primary forms, with a US MFN duty rate of 6.1%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the hydroxyl number of polyether polyols impact their classification under HTS 3907.20?
Within HTS 3907.20, the hydroxyl number is a critical material property that determines duty applicability. For example, polyether polyols with a hydroxyl number of 28 or higher are subject to a specific duty rate, while those with a lower hydroxyl number fall under a different rate. Accurate laboratory testing and documentation of this value is therefore essential for correct tariff classification and duty assessment.
What specific customs inspection risks are associated with importing polyether polyols under HTS 390720?
Shipments of polyether polyols are frequently targeted for laboratory testing to verify the exact chemical composition and polyol content, as this heading excludes other polyethers. This scientific verification can cause significant clearance delays. Furthermore, inspectors may scrutinize the commercial documentation to confirm the product is in 'primary forms' (e.g., liquid, paste, flakes) and not a finished article, which would be classified elsewhere.
What are the key cost factors beyond the base price when importing polyether polyols under HTS 390720?
For polyether polyols, major additional costs often include high anti-dumping or countervailing duties if sourced from certain countries like China, where rates can exceed 100%. You must also factor in the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is 0.3464% of the entered value, and any harbor maintenance fees. Accurate classification is critical to avoid costly customs holds and penalties for misdeclaration of these chemical products.
Polyether Polyols: Material Variants & Classification Impact
The classification of polyether polyols under 390720 primarily hinges on the polyhydric alcohol used as the starter molecule. Common variants include those based on propylene glycol (PPG), glycerine (glycerol-initiated), and sucrose (sucrose-initiated), all generally falling under this same code. However, the presence of other reactive groups or pre-polymerization can shift classification; for example, polyols containing pre-formed polymer dispersions may be classified elsewhere, such as in 3909. The primary alcohol content and hydroxyl number are critical specifications, but do not typically change the 8-digit HTS classification if the base material remains a polyether polyol.
Alternative & Similar HTS Codes for Polyether Polyols
Polyether polyols (3907.20) are most frequently confused with polyester polyols, which are classified under HTS 3907.99. Another key distinction is between polyether polyols and their epoxide precursors; epoxides (like ethylene oxide or propylene oxide) fall under heading 2910. For finished polyurethane products, such as flexible foam blocks or sheets, classification shifts to Chapter 39 headings like 3921.13 or 3921.90. Always verify the specific chemical composition, as blends or polyols with added additives may be classified elsewhere, such as in 3824.