HS 281215 Sulphur monochloride
Quick Answer: HS code 281215 specifically covers "Sulphur monochloride," a chemical compound with the formula S2Cl2. This classification applies to the pure chemical substance, used primarily in organic synthesis, rubber vulcanization, and as a solvent. Importers and exporters should note the varying duty rates across major jurisdictions. In the UK, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. The European Union applies an MFN rate of 5.50% ad valorem. For the United States, the MFN rate is 3.7% ad valorem, but significant preferential duty treatment (0% duty) is available under various free trade agreements (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG). Proper documentation for origin is crucial to claim these preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812150000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812150000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812150000 | 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 2812.15?
Imports of Sulphur monochloride 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 281215 cover?
This subheading covers sulphur monochloride, a specific inorganic chemical compound with the chemical formula S2Cl2. It is characterized by its yellowish-red fuming liquid appearance and pungent odor, primarily used in organic synthesis, as a solvent for sulfur, and in the vulcanization of rubber. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature explicitly identifies "Sulphur monochloride" under this 6-digit code, which is consistently applied across major customs territories such as the United States (as per USITC HTSUSA) and the European Union (as per EU TARIC), ensuring uniform classification for this distinct chemical substance.
What falls outside HS 281215?
The following products are excluded from HS 281215: sulphur dichloride (SCl2), which is classified under HS 2812.16, and other inorganic non-metal halides not specifically provided for elsewhere in Heading 2812 or Chapter 28. For instance, thionyl chloride (SOCl2), despite containing sulfur and chlorine, is classified under HS 2812.19 as "Other chlorides and chloride oxides of non-metals." Similarly, mixtures containing sulphur monochloride, if they derive their essential character from another component or are prepared for specific uses, might be classified under different headings according to the General Interpretative Rules (GRI).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281215?
A common error is confusing sulphur monochloride (S2Cl2) with sulphur dichloride (SCl2), leading to misclassification under HS 2812.16. Importers sometimes fail to verify the precise chemical formula, relying solely on trade names which can be ambiguous. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures containing sulphur monochloride directly under 2812.15 without applying General Interpretative Rule 3(b), which dictates that mixtures should be classified by the material or component that gives them their essential character. Incorrectly assuming that any sulfur-chlorine compound belongs here without checking the specific chemical structure is a frequent oversight.
How should importers classify products under HS 281215?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281215 involves first confirming the precise chemical identity of the substance as sulphur monochloride (S2Cl2). Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, which clearly states the chemical name, formula, and CAS number. This documentation provides definitive proof that the product is indeed sulphur monochloride, aligning with the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2812. For the US, verify against the USITC HTSUSA, and for the EU, consult the EU TARIC database to ensure consistency and avoid potential customs delays or penalties.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 2812.15 (Sulphur monochloride) in key markets?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for HS code 2812.15 varies significantly by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 3.7% ad valorem duty rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The European Union's TARIC database indicates a common customs tariff duty of 5.50% ad valorem. The United Kingdom Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a 5.50% ad valorem duty. Importers should always verify the current rate with the official customs tariff of the destination country, such as the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for Sulphur monochloride (HS 2812.15) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates, often 'Free' (0% ad valorem), are available for Sulphur monochloride (HS 2812.15) when originating from countries with which the importing nation has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) or other preferential trade programs. For example, in the United States, imports of 2812.15 may be duty-free if originating from countries such as 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) under their respective FTAs. Similarly, the EU and UK offer preferential treatment under various agreements (e.g., GSP, FTAs with specific partners). To claim preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin criteria of the relevant agreement and provide proper documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin.
What are the key classification criteria for Sulphur monochloride under HS 2812.15?
HS code 2812.15 specifically covers 'Sulphur monochloride'. The classification criteria are straightforward: the product must chemically be sulphur monochloride (S2Cl2). This falls under Chapter 28 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Inorganic chemicals; organic or inorganic compounds of precious metals, of rare-earth metals, of radio-active elements or of isotopes'. Heading 28.12 covers 'Halides and halide oxides of non-metals; other inorganic esters and their salts; their halogenated, sulphonated, nitrated or nitrosated derivatives, not elsewhere specified or included'. The subheading .15 precisely identifies sulphur monochloride, distinguishing it from other halides of non-metals. Importers should ensure their product's chemical composition precisely matches this description to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing Sulphur monochloride (HS 2812.15)?
Standard import documentation for Sulphur monochloride (HS 2812.15) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration. Due to the chemical nature of the product, additional documentation is often required for safety and regulatory compliance. This typically includes a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to provide information on potential hazards and safe handling. Depending on the importing country's chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU), specific permits, registrations, or notifications may be necessary. For preferential duty claims, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., FTA certificate) is mandatory. Importers and customs brokers should consult the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs and chemical regulatory authorities well in advance of shipment.