What is carboxymethylcellulose used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
391231
Cellulose ethers; carboxymethylcellulose and its salts, in primary forms
Heading 3912 — Cellulose and its chemical derivatives, n.e.c. or included, in primary forms
Chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 391231 when importing or exporting carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) in primary forms. This product is commonly found in food products as a thickening agent or stabilizer, and in pharmaceuticals for its binding properties.
This line specifically covers cellulose ethers, particularly carboxymethylcellulose and its salts, distinguishing it from other cellulose derivatives like cellulose acetate, which falls under a different HS-6 classification.
When comparing 391231 to 391239, which includes other cellulose derivatives not specifically mentioned, it's crucial to ensure your product is indeed CMC to avoid misclassification.
Understanding the nuances between these codes can save time and prevent costly customs delays, especially since CMC is widely used in various applications, from cosmetics to industrial products.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
carboxymethylcellulose · CMC in food products · cellulose ethers · thickening agent · pharmaceutical binding · primary forms of CMC · food stabilizers · industrial cellulose derivatives · cosmetic ingredients · textile sizing agents · dietary supplements · paint formulation additives
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Carboxymethylcellulose used in ice cream as a stabilizer.
- CMC in tablet formulations for pharmaceuticals.
- Thickening agent in sauces and dressings.
- Used in personal care products like shampoos.
- CMC as a binder in dietary supplements.
- Inclusion in paint formulations for improved texture.
- Used in textile processing as a sizing agent.
- Involved in the production of paper products for enhanced quality.
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify cellulose ethers for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is CMC the same as cellulose acetate?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the applications of HS-6 391231?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS-6 391231 for food products?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the customs duties for CMC?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to find the right HS code for cellulose derivatives?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What are the differences between HS-6 391231 and 391239?
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 carboxymethylcellulose for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What products fall under HS-6 391231
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Is carboxymethylcellulose safe for food use
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between cellulose ethers and cellulose acetate
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Where to find HS codes for cellulose derivatives
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What are the uses of carboxymethylcellulose in pharmaceuticals
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to import CMC without customs issues
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What is the role of CMC in food and cosmetics
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 is carboxymethylcellulose used for?
- Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is used primarily as a thickening agent and stabilizer in food products, as well as a binder in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
- How do I classify cellulose ethers for import?
- Use **HS-6 391231** for carboxymethylcellulose in primary forms. Ensure your product matches this description to avoid misclassification.
- What are the customs duties for HS-6 391231?
- Customs duties vary by country. Check your local customs regulations for specific duty rates on carboxymethylcellulose.
- Can I use HS-6 391231 for food products?
- Yes, **HS-6 391231** is applicable for food-grade carboxymethylcellulose, commonly used as a stabilizer and thickener.
- What are the differences between HS-6 391231 and 391239?
- HS-6 391231 specifically covers carboxymethylcellulose, while **391239** includes other cellulose derivatives not specifically mentioned.
- How to avoid customs issues when importing CMC?
- Ensure accurate classification under **HS-6 391231** and provide necessary documentation to prove the product's intended use and compliance with regulations.
- Is carboxymethylcellulose safe for food use?
- Yes, carboxymethylcellulose is generally recognized as safe for use in food products, but always check local regulations.
- What are the applications of HS-6 391231?
- Applications include food products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial uses such as paint and textile processing.
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