What is HS code 391239 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
391239
Cellulose ethers; (other than 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 391239 when importing or exporting cellulose ethers, specifically those that are not carboxymethylcellulose. For example, if you're shipping hydroxypropyl cellulose in bulk for use in pharmaceuticals, this is the correct code.
This code falls under the broader 3912 heading, which includes cellulose and its derivatives. If you’re dealing with carboxymethylcellulose, however, you would need to use HS-6 391231, as it has its own specific classification.
The 391239 line specifically covers cellulose ethers in primary forms, such as hydroxyethyl cellulose or methyl cellulose. These materials are often used in food, cosmetics, and construction for their thickening and stabilizing properties.
When classifying your products, consider the specific type of cellulose ether you are dealing with. For instance, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is included in this code, while other derivatives like carboxymethylcellulose are not.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
cellulose ethers · hydroxypropyl cellulose · methyl cellulose · primary forms · thickening agents · pharmaceutical applications · food industry · cosmetic formulations · construction materials · industrial cellulose · cellulose derivatives · non-carboxymethylcellulose · film-forming agents · bulk shipments · stabilizers
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Hydroxypropyl cellulose used in food products
- Methyl cellulose for cosmetic formulations
- Hydroxyethyl cellulose in construction adhesives
- Ethyl cellulose for pharmaceutical applications
- Cellulose ethers in bulk for industrial use
- Thickening agents for paints and coatings
- Stabilizers in personal care products
- Film-forming agents in food packaging
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify cellulose ethers?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is hydroxypropyl cellulose under HS 391239?
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What are cellulose ethers in primary forms?
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Do I need special documentation for HS 391239?
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How to import cellulose ethers correctly?
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What products fall under HS code 391239?
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Are there any restrictions on cellulose ethers?
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Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to determine if my product is a cellulose ether
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between cellulose ethers and carboxymethylcellulose
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
What types of cellulose ethers are classified under HS 391239
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Best practices for importing cellulose ethers
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Examples of products classified under HS 391239
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Understanding cellulose derivatives for customs classification
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Do I need a customs broker for cellulose ether shipments?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
How to find the right HS code for cellulose products
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 cellulose ethers are included in HS-6 391239?
- HS-6 391239 includes cellulose ethers like hydroxypropyl cellulose and methyl cellulose, but excludes carboxymethylcellulose.
- Can I use HS-6 391239 for food-grade cellulose ethers?
- Yes, if the cellulose ether is not carboxymethylcellulose, it can be classified under HS-6 391239 for food applications.
- What is the difference between HS-6 391239 and HS-6 391231?
- HS-6 391239 is for cellulose ethers other than carboxymethylcellulose, which is classified under HS-6 391231.
- Are there specific regulations for importing cellulose ethers?
- Yes, depending on the end use, you may need to comply with food safety or pharmaceutical regulations when importing cellulose ethers.
- Do I need to provide a certificate of analysis for cellulose ethers?
- It depends on the importing country’s regulations. Some may require a certificate of analysis for quality assurance.
- How can I ensure accurate classification for my cellulose products?
- Consult with a customs broker or refer to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to ensure correct classification of your cellulose products.
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