What is HS code for stearic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
382311
Industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids, acid oils from refining; stearic acid
Heading 3823 — Industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids; acid oils from refining; industrial fatty alcohols
Chapter 38: Miscellaneous chemical products
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 382311 when importing or exporting industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids, specifically stearic acid. For example, if you're shipping stearic acid in bulk for use in cosmetics or food processing, this code is applicable.
This code specifically covers stearic acid, which is a saturated fatty acid commonly derived from animal or vegetable fats. In contrast, HS-6 382312 covers other types of industrial fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, which have different properties and uses.
When classifying products under this heading, it's important to note that HS-6 382311 is focused on stearic acid and related acid oils. If your product includes mixtures or derivatives not primarily composed of stearic acid, you may need to look at other codes.
Be aware that stearic acid is widely used in the production of soaps, detergents, and lubricants. If you're handling acid oils from refining processes that contain stearic acid, this HS-6 code also applies.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
stearic acid shipments · industrial fatty acids · acid oils refining · bulk stearic acid · fatty acid classification · stearic acid applications · chemical products classification · industrial chemicals · fatty alcohols · monocarboxylic acids · stearic acid uses · chemical import export · fatty acid derivatives · refined acid oils · chemical trade compliance · stearic acid suppliers
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Bulk shipment of stearic acid for cosmetic manufacturing
- Stearic acid used in food processing as an emulsifier
- Industrial use of stearic acid in soap production
- Refined acid oils containing stearic acid for lubricant formulation
- Stearic acid supplied in 55-gallon drums for industrial applications
- Custom blends of stearic acid for specialty chemical production
- Stearic acid sourced from palm oil for use in personal care products
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify industrial fatty acids?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is stearic acid covered under HS-6 382311?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the uses of stearic acid?
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How to import stearic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 382311?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Are acid oils from refining classified as stearic acid?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What is the difference between stearic and palmitic acid?
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 determine if my fatty acid is stearic acid for HS classification
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What are the shipping requirements for stearic acid under HS-6 382311
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
Can I use HS-6 382311 for mixed fatty acid shipments
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What documentation do I need for importing stearic acid
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Are there specific regulations for stearic acid in cosmetics
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
How to classify refined acid oils containing stearic acid
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What is the tariff rate for stearic acid under HS-6 382311
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to find suppliers for industrial fatty acids like stearic acid
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 products are classified under HS-6 382311?
- HS-6 382311 specifically covers industrial monocarboxylic fatty acids, particularly stearic acid and acid oils derived from refining processes.
- Can I use this code for mixtures containing stearic acid?
- If the primary component is stearic acid, you can use HS-6 382311. However, if the mixture contains other fatty acids in significant amounts, you may need to consider a different code.
- What are the common uses of stearic acid?
- Stearic acid is commonly used in the production of soaps, cosmetics, food additives, and as a lubricant in various industrial applications.
- Are there any specific import regulations for stearic acid?
- Yes, stearic acid may be subject to specific import regulations depending on its intended use, especially in food and cosmetic products. Always check local regulations.
- How should stearic acid be packaged for shipping?
- Stearic acid is typically shipped in bulk containers, such as drums or totes, depending on the quantity. Ensure proper labeling and compliance with safety regulations.
- What is the tariff rate for stearic acid under HS-6 382311?
- Tariff rates can vary by country and trade agreements. Check with your customs broker for the specific rate applicable to your shipment.
- How do I find a supplier for stearic acid?
- You can find suppliers through industry directories, trade shows, or by contacting manufacturers directly who specialize in fatty acids.
- Is stearic acid derived from both animal and vegetable sources?
- Yes, stearic acid can be derived from both animal fats and vegetable oils, making it versatile for various applications.
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