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HS-6 · Subheading

391390

Polymers, natural and modified natural; in primary forms (excluding alginic acid, its salts and esters)

Heading 3913Natural polymers (e.g. alginic acid) and modified natural polymers (e.g. hardened proteins, chemical derivatives of natural rubber), n.e.c. or included, in primary forms

Chapter 39: Plastics and articles thereof

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 391390 when importing or exporting natural and modified polymers in primary forms, such as certain types of cellulose or starch derivatives. For example, if you're shipping a batch of modified starch used in food processing, this code applies.

This code specifically covers polymers that are not classified as alginic acid or its derivatives. If you’re dealing with natural polymers like casein or modified natural polymers such as cellulose acetate, you would also use this code. In contrast, HS-6 391391 covers alginic acid and its salts, which are excluded from this classification.

Polymers under this code are often used in various applications, including food additives, pharmaceuticals, and adhesives. If your product is a natural polymer like gelatin in primary form, it would also fall under this HS-6 line.

When determining the correct classification, consider the specific type of polymer and its intended use. For example, modified natural polymers used as thickeners in cosmetics would also be classified here, distinguishing them from synthetic polymers found in other headings.

Keywords & topics

Short phrases that describe this HS-6 subheading when you're searching or filtering schedules.

natural polymers · modified natural polymers · primary forms · cellulose derivatives · starch derivatives · gelatin classification · food additives · pharmaceutical applications · adhesives · bioplastics · casein products · pectin use · chitosan applications · thickeners in cosmetics

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Modified starch used as a food thickener
  • Cellulose acetate used in film production
  • Gelatin in primary form for food applications
  • Casein used in dairy products
  • Natural rubber derivatives for adhesives
  • Pectin used in jams and jellies
  • Chitosan used in dietary supplements
  • Starch-based bioplastics for packaging

Common questions

How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.

  • What products fall under HS code 391390?
  • How to classify modified starch for import?
  • Is gelatin classified under HS-6 391390?
  • What are examples of natural polymers in primary forms?
  • How do I determine the right HS code for cellulose acetate?
  • Are there exclusions in HS-6 391390?
  • What is the difference between HS-6 391390 and 391391?
  • Can I use HS-6 391390 for food additives?

Related topics

Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.

  • How to classify natural polymers for customs
  • Examples of modified natural polymers in primary forms
  • What is included in HS-6 391390 classification?
  • Guidelines for shipping cellulose derivatives
  • Understanding HS code for gelatin products
  • Differences between natural and synthetic polymers in HS codes
  • Best practices for classifying bioplastics
  • Determining the correct HS code for food thickeners

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 391390?
HS-6 391390 includes natural and modified polymers in primary forms, such as modified starch, cellulose acetate, and gelatin.
Can I use HS-6 391390 for shipping food additives?
Yes, if the food additives are made from natural or modified polymers like starch or pectin, this code is appropriate.
What is the difference between HS-6 391390 and HS-6 391391?
HS-6 391390 covers natural and modified polymers excluding alginic acid, while HS-6 391391 specifically includes alginic acid and its salts.
Are there specific exclusions for HS-6 391390?
Yes, alginic acid and its derivatives are excluded from this classification.
How do I classify cellulose derivatives for customs?
If they are in primary forms and not alginic acid derivatives, use HS-6 391390.
Is casein included in HS-6 391390?
Yes, casein in primary form is classified under HS-6 391390.
What are some common applications for products under HS-6 391390?
Common applications include food processing, pharmaceuticals, and adhesives.
How can I determine the right HS code for modified natural polymers?
Evaluate the specific type of polymer and its primary form to ensure it fits the criteria for HS-6 391390.

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