What is HS code 290531 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
290531
Alcohols; acyclic, diols; ethylene glycol (ethanediol)
Heading 2905 — Acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives
Chapter 29: Organic chemicals
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 290531 when importing or exporting ethylene glycol, a common industrial chemical used in antifreeze and as a solvent. For example, a shipment of 1,000 liters of ethylene glycol for use in automotive antifreeze would fall under this code.
This code specifically covers acyclic diols, particularly ethylene glycol, distinguishing it from other alcohols like propylene glycol, which is classified under HS-6 290532. Understanding this difference is crucial for accurate classification and compliance.
When considering products like ethylene glycol, it's important to note that it is often shipped in bulk containers or drums. This contrasts with other alcohols that may be packaged in smaller bottles for retail sale.
Ethylene glycol is widely used in the production of polyester fibers and resins, making it essential for manufacturers in the textile and plastics industries. If you're dealing with these applications, ensure you're using the correct HS code.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
ethylene glycol shipments · acrylic diols classification · bulk ethylene glycol · ethylene glycol antifreeze · industrial chemicals HS codes · ethylene glycol packaging · ethylene glycol applications · chemical import regulations · ethylene glycol uses · HS code for antifreeze · ethylene glycol in textiles · ethylene glycol in plastics · chemical trade compliance · ethylene glycol distribution · ethylene glycol suppliers
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- 1,000 liters of ethylene glycol for automotive antifreeze
- Drums of ethylene glycol for industrial use in plastics manufacturing
- Bulk shipments of ethylene glycol for textile production
- Containers of ethylene glycol used in coolant formulations
- Ethylene glycol supplied to chemical manufacturers for resin production
- Ethylene glycol packaged in 55-gallon drums for distribution
- Ethylene glycol used in de-icing solutions for aircraft
- Ethylene glycol sold to pharmaceutical companies for use in formulations
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify ethylene glycol for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is ethylene glycol considered a hazardous material?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the applications of ethylene glycol?
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How is ethylene glycol packaged for shipping?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the differences between HS codes 290531 and 290532?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS-6 290531 for glycol ethers?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What regulations apply to importing ethylene glycol?
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 determine the correct HS code for ethylene glycol
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What are the shipping requirements for ethylene glycol
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
Is ethylene glycol classified as a toxic substance
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between ethylene glycol and propylene glycol
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
What are the uses of ethylene glycol in manufacturing
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to import ethylene glycol for industrial use
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What packaging is required for ethylene glycol shipments
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding the classification of acyclic alcohols in trade
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 products fall under HS-6 code 290531?
- HS-6 code 290531 covers ethylene glycol, primarily used in antifreeze, coolant formulations, and as a solvent in various industrial applications.
- How do I classify ethylene glycol for customs?
- To classify ethylene glycol, use HS-6 code 290531. Ensure your documentation clearly states the product's use and packaging to avoid delays.
- Is ethylene glycol considered hazardous?
- Yes, ethylene glycol is toxic if ingested. Proper labeling and safety data sheets are required when shipping this chemical.
- What are the shipping requirements for ethylene glycol?
- When shipping ethylene glycol, ensure compliance with hazardous material regulations, including proper labeling and packaging in bulk containers.
- Can I use HS-6 290531 for glycol ethers?
- No, glycol ethers are classified under different HS codes. Use **HS-6 290531** specifically for ethylene glycol.
- What industries commonly use ethylene glycol?
- Ethylene glycol is widely used in the automotive, textile, and plastics industries, particularly for antifreeze and polyester production.
- What is the difference between ethylene glycol and propylene glycol?
- Ethylene glycol is classified under **HS-6 290531**, while propylene glycol falls under **HS-6 290532**. They have different applications and toxicity levels.
- What documentation do I need for importing ethylene glycol?
- You will need a commercial invoice, safety data sheet, and any necessary permits or certifications related to hazardous materials.
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