What is HS code 390140 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
390140
Ethylene polymers; in primary forms, ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, having a specific gravity of less than 0.94
Heading 3901 — Polymers of ethylene, in primary forms
Chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 390140 when importing or exporting ethylene polymers, specifically ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers with a specific gravity of less than 0.94. An example might be a shipment of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) granules used for manufacturing plastic bags.
This code is distinct from HS-6 390120, which covers ethylene polymers with a specific gravity of 0.94 or more. If your product is a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) used for rigid containers, you would classify it under that line instead.
The HS-6 390140 classification specifically includes ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, which are often used in flexible packaging, films, and other applications requiring lightweight materials. These polymers are known for their low density and versatility in various manufacturing processes.
When considering this code, think about the end-use of the product. For instance, if you are shipping ethylene copolymers for use in automotive parts or flexible tubing, this HS-6 line is appropriate. However, if your product is a rigid plastic item, you may need to look at other classifications.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
ethylene polymers · primary forms · ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers · specific gravity less than 0.94 · low-density polyethylene · flexible packaging materials · plastic film production · polymer classification · shipping ethylene copolymers · polymer pellets · automotive parts · flexible tubing · plastic sheeting · adhesive formulations
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) granules for plastic film production
- Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers used in flexible packaging
- Polymer pellets for manufacturing plastic bags
- Copolymer resins for automotive interior components
- Flexible tubing made from ethylene copolymers
- Lightweight plastic sheeting for construction
- Adhesive formulations containing ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers
- Plastic wrap for food packaging applications
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify ethylene copolymers?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
What are the applications of HS-6 390140?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is low-density polyethylene covered under 390140?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What is the difference between HS-6 390140 and 390120?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine specific gravity for HS classification?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use 390140 for flexible packaging?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 390140?
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 ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
examples of products under HS-6 390140
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
shipping requirements for ethylene polymers
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
difference between ethylene polymers with different specific gravity
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
uses of low-density polyethylene in manufacturing
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
best practices for classifying polymers for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
understanding HS codes for plastics and polymers
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
specific gravity impact on HS classification for polymers
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 390140?
- Products like low-density polyethylene granules, flexible packaging materials, and ethylene copolymers used in various applications fall under this classification.
- How do I know if my product qualifies for HS-6 390140?
- Check if your product is an ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymer with a specific gravity of less than 0.94. If so, it likely qualifies for this code.
- What is the difference between HS-6 390140 and HS-6 390120?
- HS-6 390140 covers ethylene copolymers with a specific gravity less than 0.94, while HS-6 390120 is for those with a specific gravity of 0.94 or more.
- Can I use HS-6 390140 for rigid plastic products?
- No, HS-6 390140 is specifically for flexible ethylene copolymers. Rigid products may need a different classification.
- What are common uses for ethylene polymers classified under 390140?
- Common uses include flexible packaging, plastic bags, and lightweight materials for various manufacturing processes.
- How do I determine the specific gravity of my polymer?
- Specific gravity can be determined through laboratory testing, comparing the density of the polymer to the density of water.
- What should I do if I'm unsure about the classification?
- Consult with a customs broker or trade specialist who can provide guidance based on the specific properties of your product.
- Are there any special documentation requirements for HS-6 390140?
- Typically, you will need to provide product specifications and possibly test results demonstrating the specific gravity for customs clearance.
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