What is HS code 340249 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
340249
Organic surface-active agents; whether or not put up for retail sale, n.e.c. in item no. 3402
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 340249 when importing or exporting organic surface-active agents that are not classified as soap, such as specialized cleaning agents. For instance, a shipment of a biodegradable cleaning solution containing surfactants would fall under this code.
This code is distinct from HS-6 340211, which covers anionic surfactants specifically. If your product includes non-soap surfactants like amphoteric or cationic types, 340249 is the appropriate classification.
Products classified under 340249 include organic surface-active agents that may be packaged for retail sale or in bulk. These agents are often used in household or industrial cleaning products, such as detergents or fabric softeners.
When considering this HS-6, note that it encompasses items not specifically detailed in other subheadings, making it essential for products with unique formulations or applications in cleaning and maintenance.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
organic surface-active agents · cleaning preparations · non-soap surfactants · biodegradable cleaners · detergents · fabric softeners · household cleaning products · industrial cleaning agents · retail cleaning solutions · amphoteric surfactants · specialized cleaning agents · liquid detergents · multi-surface cleaners · car wash products · dishwashing liquids
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Biodegradable laundry detergent with non-soap surfactants
- Concentrated cleaning solution for industrial use
- Surface-active agent used in personal care products like shampoos
- Liquid fabric softener containing organic surfactants
- Dishwashing liquid with amphoteric surfactants
- Multi-surface cleaner with a blend of organic agents
- Car wash soap containing synthetic surfactants
- Heavy-duty degreaser for automotive applications
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-6 340249
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is my cleaning product classified as soap?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are non-soap surfactants?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the right HS code for detergents?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
Can I use HS-6 340249 for retail cleaning products?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the differences between HS-6 340211 and 340249?
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 organic cleaning agents for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What products fall under HS code 340249
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding non-soap surfactants in cleaning products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Guidelines for using HS-6 340249 for detergents
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Identifying organic surface-active agents for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Classification of biodegradable cleaning solutions
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between soap and non-soap surfactants in HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Best practices for classifying cleaning preparations
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 340249?
- HS-6 340249 covers organic surface-active agents that are not soap, including various cleaning preparations like detergents and fabric softeners.
- How do I know if my product fits HS code 340249?
- If your product contains organic surfactants and is not classified as soap, it likely falls under HS-6 340249. Review the formulation and intended use.
- Can I use HS-6 340249 for retail cleaning products?
- Yes, HS-6 340249 can be used for organic surface-active agents whether packaged for retail or sold in bulk.
- What is the difference between HS-6 340211 and HS-6 340249?
- HS-6 340211 specifically covers anionic surfactants, while HS-6 340249 includes a broader range of organic surface-active agents, including amphoteric and cationic types.
- Are biodegradable cleaners classified under HS-6 340249?
- Yes, biodegradable cleaning solutions that contain organic surfactants can be classified under HS-6 340249.
- What if my product has both soap and non-soap surfactants?
- If your product contains both types, you may need to classify it under a different HS code, such as HS-6 3401, which specifically covers products containing soap.
- How can I ensure correct classification for customs?
- Review the product's formulation and intended use, and consult with a customs broker if unsure about the classification.
- What are common examples of products under HS-6 340249?
- Common examples include laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and multi-surface cleaners that contain organic surface-active agents.
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