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HS-6 · Subheading

320490

Dyes; synthetic organic products n.e.c. in heading no. 3204 (e.g. of a kind used as luminophores), whether or not chemically defined

Heading 3204Synthetic organic colouring matter and preparations based thereon; synthetic organic products used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores; whether or not chemically defined

Chapter 32: Tanning or dyeing extracts

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 320490 when importing or exporting synthetic organic dyes that do not fall under specific categories. For example, if you're shipping a batch of synthetic dyes used in textiles that aren't classified elsewhere, this code applies.

This code is distinct from HS-6 320412, which covers synthetic organic dyes specifically used for coloring plastics. If your product is a dye that serves a broader purpose or is not chemically defined, 320490 is the right choice.

The 320490 line includes synthetic organic products that may be used as luminophores, which are substances that can emit light when exposed to radiation. This can include specialty dyes used in various applications, from textiles to plastics.

When considering 320490, think about the end-use of your product. If it’s a synthetic dye for general use that doesn’t fit neatly into other categories, this is the code you need.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

synthetic organic dyes · dyes for textiles · fluorescent brightening agents · coloring agents for plastics · specialty inks · industrial dyes · non-specific dyes · synthetic products n.e.c. · luminophores · general use dyes · synthetic preparations · dyes for cosmetics · coloring matter · dyes in paints · non-chemically defined dyes

Examples

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

  • Synthetic organic dyes for textile applications not specified elsewhere
  • Dyes used in paints that do not fall under other specific HS codes
  • Fluorescent brightening agents used in laundry detergents
  • Dyes for plastics that are not chemically defined
  • Specialty inks containing synthetic organic coloring matter
  • Dyes used in cosmetics and personal care products
  • Synthetic dyes for industrial applications like coatings
  • Coloring agents for food packaging materials

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS code 320490 used for?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify synthetic organic dyes?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

Are fluorescent brightening agents covered under 320490?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What products fall under HS-6 320490?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Differences between HS-320490 and HS-320412?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Can I use 320490 for dyes in cosmetics?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are examples of synthetic organic products n.e.c.?

Use n.e.c. only when you have ruled out every more specific line in the same section.

How to determine if a dye is chemically defined?

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 synthetic organic dyes for import

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

Examples of products under HS-6 320490

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

What types of dyes are included in HS-320490?

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Guidelines for using HS code 320490

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Is HS-320490 applicable for fluorescent dyes?

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Differences between synthetic organic dyes classifications

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

What to do if my dye doesn't fit specific HS codes?

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

How to find the right HS code for synthetic dyes

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-6 320490?
HS-6 320490 covers synthetic organic dyes and preparations that are not specifically defined elsewhere, including those used as luminophores.
Can I use HS-320490 for dyes used in textiles?
Yes, if the dyes are synthetic and do not fall under more specific classifications, HS-320490 is appropriate for textile applications.
What is the difference between HS-320490 and HS-320412?
HS-320412 specifically covers synthetic organic dyes used for plastics, while HS-320490 is for those not classified under specific categories.
Are fluorescent brightening agents included in this code?
Yes, HS-320490 includes synthetic products used as fluorescent brightening agents.
How do I know if my dye is chemically defined?
If your dye has a specific chemical structure and is listed in a more defined HS code, it may not fall under HS-320490.
What should I do if my product doesn't fit any specific HS code?
If your product is a synthetic dye that doesn't fit into specific categories, consider using HS-320490, but consult with a customs broker for guidance.
Can HS-320490 be used for dyes in cosmetics?
Yes, synthetic organic dyes used in cosmetics can be classified under HS-320490 if they are not specifically defined elsewhere.
What are some examples of synthetic organic products n.e.c.?
Examples include specialty inks, general use dyes, and synthetic dyes for various industrial applications.

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