HS 281211 Chlorides and chloride oxides
Quick Answer: HS code 281211 covers the chemical compounds known as tetrachloromethane, also commonly referred to as carbon tetrachloride. This classification specifically includes the pure chemical substance, not mixtures or preparations. Importers and exporters dealing with this product should be aware of varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU's TARIC system shows a 5.50% ad valorem rate. In the US, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, but significant preferential trade agreements offer duty-free entry (e.g., under A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG programs). Due to its historical use as a solvent and refrigerant, and its environmental impact, trade in tetrachloromethane is subject to international regulations, including the Montreal Protocol, which may impact import/export licensing and restrictions beyond standard customs duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812110000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812110000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812110000 | 3.7% | 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 2812.11?
Imports of Chlorides and chloride oxides 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, GSP, and 14 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 281211 cover?
This subheading covers carbonyl dichloride (phosgene), a highly toxic chemical compound with the chemical formula COCl₂. As defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature and reflected in national tariffs such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this specific chemical compound is precisely identified under 2812.11.00. It is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis, particularly for the production of isocyanates, polycarbonates, and various dyes and pharmaceuticals, due to its reactive nature. Its classification here is based on its distinct chemical identity as a chloride oxide of carbon.
What falls outside HS 281211?
The following products are excluded from HS 281211: other chlorides and chloride oxides, which are classified under HS 2812.19. For instance, thionyl chloride (SOCl₂), sulfuryl chloride (SO₂Cl₂), and phosphorus oxychloride (POCl₃) are all chloride oxides but are not carbonyl dichloride, and therefore fall into subheading 2812.19. Similarly, simple inorganic chlorides like sodium chloride (NaCl) or calcium chloride (CaCl₂) are classified under HS 2827, as they are not chloride oxides and do not match the specific chemical structure of carbonyl dichloride. The precise chemical composition is paramount for distinguishing these related but distinct compounds.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281211?
A common error is misclassifying other chloride oxides or even simple chlorides under HS 281211, failing to recognize that this subheading is exclusively for carbonyl dichloride (phosgene). Importers might incorrectly apply General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 without fully appreciating the specific scope of the four-digit heading 2812 and the six-digit subheading 2812.11, which explicitly names "Carbonyl dichloride (phosgene)." For example, classifying thionyl chloride here, despite it being a chloride oxide, would be incorrect as it is not phosgene and belongs in 2812.19. Diligent attention to the specific chemical name is crucial to avoid such errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 281211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281211 involves first confirming the precise chemical identity of the substance. Importers and customs brokers must verify through chemical analysis, safety data sheets (SDS), or certificates of analysis that the product is indeed carbonyl dichloride (phosgene), with the chemical formula COCl₂. This verification ensures compliance with General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If the product is confirmed as carbonyl dichloride, it should be classified under HS 2812.11.00, referencing the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or relevant national tariff schedule for the exact duty rate, which for the US is 3.5% ad valorem for eligible imports.
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FAQ
What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for products classified under HS 2812.11 ('Chlorides and chloride oxides') in major markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) duty rates for HS 2812.11 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States generally applies an MFN duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC database indicates an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem for many products within this subheading. The UK Global Tariff also lists an MFN duty rate of 5.50% ad valorem. Other countries may apply rates such as 4.00% or even higher, up to 25% ad valorem, depending on their national tariff schedules. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, UK Global Tariff) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty treatment for HS 2812.11, potentially allowing for duty-free import?
Many Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential trade programs offer reduced or duty-free entry for products classified under HS 2812.11, provided the goods meet the respective Rules of Origin. For imports into the United States, duty-free entry (indicated by 'Free' in the provided sample) is available under various agreements, including but not limited to: Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG). Similar preferential rates may apply under agreements with Canada (A) and Mexico (D, E) under USMCA. Importers should verify the specific agreement, ensure the product qualifies under the Rules of Origin, and provide the necessary certification (e.g., origin declaration, certificate of origin) to claim preferential treatment.
What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing products under HS 2812.11 ('Chlorides and chloride oxides') from other related chemical classifications?
The primary classification criterion for HS 2812.11 is the chemical composition: the product must be a chloride or a chloride oxide. This subheading specifically covers 'Acyclic chlorides of hydrocarbons' and 'Chlorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons'. It is crucial to differentiate these from other halogenated derivatives of hydrocarbons (e.g., bromides, iodides, fluorides) which fall under different subheadings within Chapter 28 or Chapter 29, depending on their chemical structure and function. For instance, organic chlorides would typically fall under Chapter 29. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide detailed guidance, emphasizing that this heading covers inorganic chlorides and chloride oxides, excluding those that are specifically provided for elsewhere, such as certain precious metal chlorides or radioactive element chlorides. Accurate chemical analysis and understanding of the product's precise chemical name and structure are essential for correct classification.
What specific documentation is typically required for the import of chemicals classified under HS 2812.11, beyond standard customs declarations?
Beyond standard commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading/air waybills, the import of chemicals under HS 2812.11 often requires additional documentation due to their chemical nature and potential regulatory controls. Key documents may include: a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to provide information on hazards, handling, and emergency procedures; a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the chemical composition, purity, and specifications; and, depending on the specific chemical and importing country regulations, permits or licenses from environmental, health, or chemical control authorities (e.g., EPA in the US, REACH in the EU). If claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin or origin declaration is mandatory. Importers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs and relevant regulatory agencies.