HS 151511 Linseed oil and its fractions
Quick Answer: Linseed oil and its fractions imported under HS 151511 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU with a rate to be determined via TARIC, and the US at 6.3¢/kg (MFN) with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This HS code specifically covers crude, refined, or semi-refined linseed oil, as well as fractions of linseed oil, which is derived from flaxseed. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on the specific trade agreement in place with the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1515110000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1515110000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1515110000 | 6.3¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 1515.11?
Imports of Linseed oil and its fractions may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 151511 cover?
This subheading covers crude linseed oil and its fractions, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this includes linseed oil that has not been chemically modified beyond simple physical separation processes like refining, deodorizing, or winterizing. It specifically pertains to the initial extraction and any subsequent fractional distillation of linseed oil, ensuring that only the primary oil and its distinct components are classified here.
What falls outside HS 151511?
The following products are excluded from HS 151511: refined or purified linseed oil that has undergone significant chemical processing beyond simple physical separation, such as hydrogenation or esterification, which would alter its fundamental chemical properties. Also excluded are mixtures of linseed oil with other oils or substances, unless the linseed oil is the predominant component and the mixture is still considered a "fraction" in a broad sense. For instance, linseed oil used in paints or varnishes, where it is chemically reacted, would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 32.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 151511?
A common error is misclassifying processed or blended linseed oils under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. If linseed oil has been chemically modified or blended with other substances to create a new product with distinct properties, it likely falls under a different heading. For example, a linseed oil-based varnish would not be classified here but under heading 3208 or 3209.
How should importers classify products under HS 151511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 151511 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and processing. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They should verify that the product is indeed crude linseed oil or a direct fraction thereof, and that no chemical modifications have occurred that would necessitate classification under a different heading, ensuring compliance with Chapter 15 notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 151511?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of crude linseed oil, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $750. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($15,000 USD × 0.05 = $750). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 151511.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 151511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 151511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) to the United States may also receive preferential duty rates, potentially Free. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the primary duty rates applicable to HS code 151511 (Linseed oil and its fractions)?
The duty rates for HS code 151511 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For instance, rates can be Free (0%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), among others, depending on the specific agreement and origin of the goods. Always consult the relevant tariff schedule for the importing country to determine the precise rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty for HS 151511 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 151511 depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For instance, if the US HTS MFN rate is 2.00% ad valorem and you import 1,000 kg of linseed oil valued at $2,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 2.00% of $2,000 USD = $40.00 USD. If a specific duty rate of, for example, 6.3¢/kg applies, the duty would be 1,000 kg * 6.3¢/kg = 6300¢, which is $63.00 USD. Importers must be aware of the specific rate type and ensure accurate valuation and quantity reporting.
What distinguishes 'linseed oil' from its 'fractions' under HS code 151511 for customs classification purposes?
HS code 151511 covers both crude and refined linseed oil, as well as its fractions. 'Fractions' generally refer to specific portions of the oil obtained through physical separation processes like fractionation, which separate components based on their physical properties (e.g., melting point). The key criterion for classification under 151511 is that the product originates from flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum). If the oil has undergone significant chemical modification beyond refining or simple physical separation into fractions, it might be classified elsewhere. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) can provide further clarity on the scope of this heading.
What documentation is typically required for importing linseed oil (HS 151511)?
Standard documentation for importing HS 151511 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and potentially a phytosanitary certificate or other health and safety declarations to ensure compliance with agricultural and food safety regulations. Importers should verify specific requirements with their customs broker and the importing country's customs authority.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 151511, and how can importers leverage them?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS 151511. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) with Canada and Mexico, and bilateral agreements with countries like Chile, Singapore, and South Korea, which may offer reduced or zero duties. The EU has its Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure the linseed oil originates from a beneficiary country and obtain a valid Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the agreement. This documentation is crucial for claiming the reduced duty rates at the time of import.