What is HS code 320820 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
320820
Paints and varnishes; based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium
Heading 3208 — Paints, varnishes; (enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium
Chapter 32: Tanning or dyeing extracts
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 320820 when importing or exporting paints and varnishes based on acrylic or vinyl polymers, typically found in containers like cans or drums. For instance, a shipment of acrylic wall paint would fall under this code.
This code specifically covers paints and varnishes that are dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium, distinguishing them from water-based products. If you have a product that uses a solvent rather than water, this is likely the correct classification.
In contrast, HS-6 320810 applies to paints and varnishes based on natural polymers. If your product is made from a natural resin rather than synthetic materials, you would need to consider that code instead.
When dealing with products that contain acrylic or vinyl polymers, ensure that the formulation does not include any water-based components, as that would shift classification to a different HS line.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
acrylic paints · vinyl varnishes · non-aqueous medium · synthetic polymer coatings · industrial paint · clear lacquer · artistic acrylics · paint classification · vinyl-based products · coatings for metal · floor varnish · spray paint · paint import/export · synthetic polymer paints · paint shipment · non-water-based paints
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Acrylic paint for exterior walls in 5-gallon buckets
- Vinyl-based varnish for wood finishing in 1-liter cans
- Industrial-grade acrylic coatings for metal surfaces
- Spray paint containing acrylic polymers in aerosol cans
- Clear lacquer based on vinyl polymers for automotive applications
- Flooring varnish using acrylic dispersion in 20-liter drums
- Artistic acrylic paint sets in small tubes for artists
- Protective coatings for outdoor furniture made from vinyl polymers
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify acrylic paints for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are vinyl varnishes under HS 320820?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are non-aqueous paints?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I determine the right HS code for my paint?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
Is there a difference between HS 320820 and 320810?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What packaging is required for HS 320820 products?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS 320820 for spray paints?
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 acrylic or vinyl paints for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What products fall under HS code 320820
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between HS 320820 and HS 320810
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Requirements for importing non-aqueous paints
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Examples of products classified under HS 320820
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding synthetic polymer paint classifications
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Guidelines for shipping acrylic varnishes internationally
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What to include in invoices for HS 320820 shipments
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 320820?
- Products like acrylic and vinyl paints and varnishes, typically in non-aqueous forms, are classified under this code.
- How do I know if my paint is non-aqueous?
- Check the product formulation; if it uses solvents instead of water, it is likely non-aqueous and may fall under HS-6 320820.
- Can I use HS-6 320820 for all types of acrylic paints?
- Yes, as long as the acrylic paint is based on synthetic polymers and is dispersed in a non-aqueous medium.
- What is the difference between HS-6 320820 and HS-6 320810?
- HS-6 320820 covers synthetic polymer paints, while HS-6 320810 pertains to paints based on natural polymers.
- What packaging is acceptable for products under HS-6 320820?
- Acceptable packaging includes cans, drums, or containers that prevent leakage and are suitable for liquid products.
- Do I need special permits to import HS-6 320820 products?
- Check with your local customs authority, as regulations may vary based on the chemical composition of the paint.
- Are there any specific labeling requirements for HS-6 320820?
- Yes, ensure that labels comply with safety and chemical regulations, including hazard symbols if applicable.
- Is HS-6 320820 applicable for artistic paints?
- Yes, artistic acrylic paints that are based on synthetic polymers and non-aqueous mediums can be classified under this code.
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