What is the HS code for artificial wax?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-4 · Heading
3404 — Waxes; artificial, prepared
Chapter 34: Soap, waxes, polishing preparations
Plain-language overview
Use HS-4 3404 when importing or exporting artificial and prepared waxes, such as polyethylene glycol waxes used in cosmetics or food packaging. Proper classification ensures compliance with customs regulations and accurate duty assessments.
When deciding between HS-6 340420 and HS-6 340490, consider the composition of the wax. If your product is specifically made from poly(oxyethylene), classify it under 340420. For all other types of artificial waxes, use 340490.
If you're importing a wax blend that includes both polyethylene glycol and other components, you may need to analyze the primary ingredient to determine the correct classification. Products with a significant amount of polyethylene glycol will typically fall under 340420, while those with different bases should be classified as 340490.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.
artificial waxes · prepared waxes · polyethylene glycol wax · waxes for cosmetics · food packaging wax · synthetic wax classification · dental wax products · modeling pastes · import export waxes · customs classification wax
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Polyethylene glycol wax used in cosmetics
- Waxes for food packaging applications
- Synthetic waxes for industrial lubricants
- Prepared waxes for candle manufacturing
- Waxes used in modeling pastes
- Dental waxes with a basis of plaster
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify polyethylene glycol wax?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Differences between HS-6 340420 and 340490
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are prepared waxes used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to import synthetic waxes?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Classification of dental waxes under HS codes
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
how to classify artificial and prepared waxes for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
differences between polyethylene glycol wax and other waxes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
what products fall under HS-4 3404
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
importing waxes for food packaging
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
customs duties on synthetic waxes
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
using HS codes for modeling pastes and dental waxes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
guidelines for classifying waxes in international trade
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
how to determine the correct HS code for wax products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of products are classified under HS-4 3404?
- HS-4 3404 covers artificial and prepared waxes, including those made from polyethylene glycol and other synthetic materials.
- How do I know if my wax product falls under HS-6 340420?
- If your wax is primarily made from poly(oxyethylene), it should be classified under HS-6 340420.
- Can I use HS-6 340490 for any type of wax?
- HS-6 340490 is for artificial and prepared waxes not made from polyethylene glycol. Ensure your product does not contain significant amounts of this material.
- What are common uses for artificial waxes?
- Artificial waxes are commonly used in cosmetics, food packaging, modeling pastes, and dental products.
- Are there specific regulations for importing waxes?
- Yes, regulations may vary by country. Always check local customs requirements and ensure proper classification to avoid delays.
- What should I do if my wax product contains multiple ingredients?
- Analyze the primary component of your wax. If it is predominantly polyethylene glycol, classify it under HS-6 340420; otherwise, use HS-6 340490.
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