HS Code for Surfactants and Detergent Raw Materials
The HS Code for surfactants and detergent raw materials is 340211. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 4%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 340211 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 4% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 4% |
| Chapter | 34 |
| Heading | 3402 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Anionic organic surface-active agents
HS Code 340211 covers anionic organic surface-active agents with a US MFN duty rate of 4%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the critical packaging requirements for shipping bulk liquid anionic surfactants under HTS 340211 to prevent leaks and ensure carrier acceptance?
For bulk liquid shipments, UN-certified intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) made of compatible, high-density polyethylene are typically required. Carriers mandate rigid, secondary containment pallets or bunding to contain any potential leaks, as anionic surfactants can be corrosive and are strictly regulated as hazardous materials (hazmat) for transport.
What are the specific import restrictions for anionic surfactants (HTS 340211) into the European Union under REACH?
Importers must ensure the substance is registered with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) under the REACH regulation, with registration required for volumes of 1 tonne or more per year. Additionally, the specific anionic surfactant must be listed on the EU inventory (EC number) and comply with any applicable restrictions or authorization requirements detailed in Annex XVII of REACH.
How does the specific chemical structure of an anionic surfactant affect its classification under HTS 3402.11?
Classification under HTS 3402.11 depends on the anionic hydrophilic group. The code specifically covers agents where the surface-active function is due to a sulfonate, sulfate, or carboxylate group. If the primary active group is cationic, nonionic, or amphoteric instead, the product would be classified elsewhere in heading 3402.
Specific Country Import Restrictions for Surfactants and Detergent Materials
Importers should be aware of specific country-level chemical regulations that can restrict or require special handling for surfactants under HTS 3402.11. For example, many surfactants are subject to the U.S. Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and must be certified as compliant upon entry. The European Union's REACH regulation requires registration of substances, and imports of certain anionic surfactants may be restricted if they do not meet biodegradability standards (e.g., EU Detergent Regulation (EC) No 648/2004). Always check the specific country's chemical inventory (e.g., Canada's DSL, China's IECSC) to confirm the substance is approved for import.
Common Classification Mistakes for Surfactants (340211)
A frequent error is misclassifying finished liquid or powder detergents (e.g., laundry soap) here; those are properly classified in headings 3401 or 3402.20. Ensure the product is a raw material surfactant, not a compounded cleaning preparation. Also, watch for organic surface-active agents that have been put up for retail sale, which may belong in 3402.90. Always verify the product's exact chemical composition and primary function as a surfactant to avoid incorrect duty application.
Related HS Codes
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