What are non-ionic surfactants?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
340242
Organic surface-active agents; non-ionic (other than soap), whether or not put up for retail sale
Heading 3402 — Organic surface-active agents (not soap); surface-active, washing (including auxiliary washing) and cleaning preparations, containing soap or not, excluding those of heading no. 3401
Chapter 34: Soap, waxes, polishing preparations
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 340242 when importing or exporting non-ionic organic surface-active agents that are not classified as soap. This includes products like emulsifiers used in cosmetics or food processing. For example, a shipment of a non-ionic surfactant used in a hair conditioner would fall under this code.
This code is distinct from HS-6 340211, which covers anionic organic surface-active agents. If your product is a cleaning agent with an anionic surfactant, you would classify it under that line instead. Understanding the differences between these surfactant types is crucial for accurate classification.
The 340242 subheading specifically includes non-ionic agents, which do not carry a charge and are often used for their mildness and emulsifying properties. Products like non-ionic surfactants in household cleaners or industrial degreasers would be classified here.
When considering similar products, remember that HS-6 340213 includes cationic surfactants, which are positively charged and often used in fabric softeners. Knowing whether your product is non-ionic or cationic will help you select the correct HS code.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
non-ionic surfactants · organic surface-active agents · cleaning preparations · emulsifiers for cosmetics · household cleaning agents · industrial surfactants · hair conditioner ingredients · food processing agents · laundry detergents · cosmetic formulations · agricultural emulsifiers · degreasers · fabric softeners · anionic vs non-ionic · HS code classification · import export surfactants
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Non-ionic surfactants in hair conditioners
- Emulsifiers used in food processing
- Cleaning agents with non-ionic surfactants
- Industrial degreasers containing non-ionic agents
- Non-ionic surfactants in laundry detergents
- Cosmetic formulations with non-ionic agents
- Household cleaners featuring non-ionic surfactants
- Agricultural products with non-ionic emulsifiers
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify organic surface-active agents?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Examples of products under HS code 340242
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Difference between anionic and non-ionic surfactants
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What is HS code for cleaning preparations?
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Are emulsifiers classified under HS 340242?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the correct HS code for surfactants?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What products fall under HS 340242?
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 non-ionic organic surface-active agents
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Examples of non-ionic surfactants in cleaning products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What is the HS code for emulsifiers in cosmetics?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding the difference between surfactant types
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Guidance on importing organic surface-active agents
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Classification of cleaning agents with non-ionic surfactants
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What products are included in HS code 340242?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to find the right HS code for surfactants
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 code 340242?
- HS code 340242 covers non-ionic organic surface-active agents, including emulsifiers used in cosmetics, food processing, and household cleaning products.
- How do I know if my product is non-ionic?
- Non-ionic surfactants do not carry a charge and are typically used for their mildness. Check the product specifications or consult with your supplier for classification.
- Can I use HS code 340242 for all cleaning agents?
- No, HS code 340242 is specific to non-ionic surfactants. If your cleaning agent contains anionic or cationic surfactants, you need to use the appropriate codes (like 340211 or 340213).
- What is the difference between anionic and non-ionic surfactants?
- Anionic surfactants carry a negative charge and are often stronger cleaners, while non-ionic surfactants are uncharged and generally milder, making them suitable for sensitive applications.
- Are there any special import regulations for HS code 340242?
- While there are no specific regulations for HS code 340242, always check local import requirements and safety regulations for chemical products.
- How can I ensure accurate HS code classification?
- Review product specifications, consult with suppliers, and consider using a customs broker for complex classifications to ensure compliance.
- What are some common applications for non-ionic surfactants?
- Common applications include use in household cleaners, personal care products like shampoos and conditioners, and industrial cleaning agents.
- Can I find non-ionic surfactants in food products?
- Yes, non-ionic surfactants are often used as emulsifiers in food processing to help blend ingredients and improve texture.
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