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HS-6 · Subheading

290545

Alcohols; polyhydric, glycerol

Heading 2905Acyclic alcohols and their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives

Chapter 29: Organic chemicals

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 290545 when importing or exporting glycerol, a polyhydric alcohol commonly used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. For instance, shipments of glycerol in bulk containers for use in skincare products fall under this code.

This code specifically covers glycerol, distinguishing it from other polyhydric alcohols like mannitol or sorbitol, which have different HS codes. Glycerol is known for its viscous texture and sweet taste, making it a popular ingredient in various formulations.

When classifying glycerol, it’s important to note that it should not be confused with halogenated derivatives or other alcohols listed under the same heading. For example, HS-6 290544 covers other polyhydric alcohols, while HS-6 290546 includes glycerol derivatives.

Glycerol is often shipped in 55-gallon drums or bulk tankers, and it’s essential to ensure proper labeling and documentation to avoid customs delays. Make sure to check if any specific regulations apply to your shipment based on its end use.

Keywords & topics

Short phrases that describe this HS-6 subheading when you're searching or filtering schedules.

glycerol shipments · polyhydric alcohols · food grade glycerol · pharmaceutical glycerol · cosmetic glycerol · bulk glycerol · glycerol applications · glycerol regulations · glycerol packaging · glycerol classification · glycerol import export · glycerol derivatives · glycerol uses · glycerol in skincare · glycerol in food · glycerol in beverages

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Bulk glycerol for food production in 55-gallon drums
  • Glycerol used in pharmaceutical formulations
  • Cosmetic products containing glycerol as a moisturizer
  • Glycerol shipped in ISO tanks for industrial applications
  • Glycerol used as a sweetener in beverage manufacturing
  • Glycerol in small bottles for personal care products
  • Glycerol as a humectant in baked goods
  • Glycerol for use in chemical synthesis processes

Common questions

How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.

  • What is HS code for glycerol?
  • How to classify glycerol for import?
  • Is glycerol food grade under HS-6?
  • What are the uses of glycerol in cosmetics?
  • Can glycerol be shipped in bulk?
  • What packaging is required for glycerol?
  • Are there regulations for importing glycerol?
  • How does glycerol differ from other alcohols?

Related topics

Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.

  • How to determine HS code for glycerol shipments
  • What are the customs requirements for glycerol
  • Glycerol applications in food and pharmaceuticals
  • Differences between glycerol and other polyhydric alcohols
  • Understanding glycerol import regulations
  • Glycerol packaging requirements for international shipping
  • What to include in glycerol shipping documents
  • Glycerol use in personal care products and cosmetics

Questions & answers

For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.

What is glycerol used for?
Glycerol is commonly used in food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and as a humectant in various formulations.
How should glycerol be packaged for export?
Glycerol is typically packaged in bulk containers, such as 55-gallon drums or ISO tanks, depending on the shipment size.
Are there specific regulations for importing glycerol?
Yes, glycerol may be subject to food safety and chemical regulations depending on its intended use, so check local guidelines.
Can glycerol be classified under different HS codes?
Yes, glycerol has its own HS code (290545) and should not be confused with other polyhydric alcohols or derivatives.
What documentation is needed for glycerol shipments?
Documentation typically includes commercial invoices, packing lists, and any required certificates for food or pharmaceutical use.
Is glycerol safe for use in food products?
Yes, food-grade glycerol is safe for consumption and commonly used as a sweetener and humectant in various food items.
What are the physical properties of glycerol?
Glycerol is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a sweet taste, soluble in water and hygroscopic in nature.
How does glycerol differ from sorbitol?
Glycerol is a triol, while sorbitol is a hexitol; they have different chemical structures and applications, leading to different HS codes.

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