What is HS code 320990 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
320990
Paints and varnishes; (based on polymers other than acrylic or vinyl), dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium
Heading 3209 — Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium
Chapter 32: Tanning or dyeing extracts
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 320990 when importing or exporting paints and varnishes based on synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers, especially those not classified as acrylic or vinyl. For example, if you're shipping a water-based varnish made from modified cellulose, this is the code to use.
This code specifically covers paints and varnishes that are dispersed or dissolved in water, excluding those based on acrylic or vinyl polymers. If you have a product like a water-soluble lacquer made from polyurethane, it would fall under this classification.
In contrast, HS-6 320890 covers paints and varnishes based on acrylic or vinyl polymers. If your product is a water-based paint made from acrylics, you would use that code instead. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate customs declarations.
When dealing with paints and varnishes, it's important to know the specific polymer base, as this can affect not only classification but also regulatory compliance and import duties.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
paint classification · water-based varnish · synthetic polymer paints · aqueous medium coatings · non-acrylic paint · modified natural polymers · importing paints · customs for varnishes · paint HS codes · synthetic lacquer · aqueous dispersion · water-soluble inks · non-vinyl paints · paint regulations · customs duties on paints
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Water-based varnish made from modified cellulose
- Synthetic polymer paint for interior walls
- Aqueous dispersion of polyurethane lacquer
- Non-acrylic water-soluble ink for printing
- Paints based on natural resins in aqueous mediums
- Water-dispersed coatings for wood finishing
- Synthetic polymer-based adhesives in liquid form
- Aqueous paints for artistic applications
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify water-based paints?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are synthetic polymer paints taxable?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for importing varnishes?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS-6 320990 for all paints?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What distinguishes HS-6 320990 from other paint codes?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I find the right HS code for my product?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What are the customs duties for HS-6 320990?
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 paints based on synthetic polymers
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What types of products fall under HS-6 320990
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between HS-6 320990 and 320890
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Importing water-based varnishes and their classifications
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Understanding customs codes for synthetic paints
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Regulations for importing non-acrylic paints
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
How to determine the correct HS code for varnishes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Guidelines for shipping paints and varnishes internationally
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 320990?
- HS-6 320990 covers paints and varnishes based on synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers that are dispersed or dissolved in water, excluding acrylic or vinyl-based products.
- Can I use HS-6 320990 for all water-based paints?
- No, HS-6 320990 is specifically for paints based on non-acrylic or non-vinyl synthetic polymers. If your paint is acrylic or vinyl-based, you should refer to HS-6 320890.
- What are the customs duties for importing products under this code?
- Customs duties vary by country and product specifics. It's best to check with your customs broker or the relevant customs authority for the exact rates applicable to HS-6 320990.
- How do I determine the right HS code for my paint product?
- To determine the correct HS code, identify the main ingredients and polymer bases of your paint. Consulting with a customs broker can also help clarify the classification.
- Are there any special regulations for importing synthetic polymer paints?
- Yes, regulations may vary by country and can include safety standards, environmental regulations, and labeling requirements. Always check local laws before importing.
- What distinguishes HS-6 320990 from HS-6 320890?
- HS-6 320990 is for paints based on synthetic polymers other than acrylic or vinyl, while HS-6 320890 is specifically for acrylic or vinyl-based paints.
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