HS 281217 Thionyl chloride
Quick Answer: HS Code 2812.17 specifically covers Thionyl chloride (SOCl2), a colorless to yellowish fuming liquid with a pungent odor, primarily used as a chlorinating reagent in organic synthesis, particularly for converting carboxylic acids and alcohols into acyl chlorides and alkyl chlorides, respectively. It is also utilized in the production of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. Importers and exporters should note varying duty rates: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU imposes 5.50% ad valorem. In the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, but certain preferential programs (e.g., A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG) allow for duty-free entry. Customs brokers must verify origin to leverage these preferential rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812170000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812170000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2812170000 | 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 2812.17?
Imports of Thionyl chloride 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 281217 cover?
This subheading covers thionyl chloride, a chemical compound with the formula SOCl₂. It is specifically enumerated within Heading 2812, which encompasses "Halides and halide oxides of non-metals; halogenated or sulphonated derivatives of non-metals." Thionyl chloride is a halide oxide of sulfur, a non-metal, and is primarily used as a chlorinating agent in organic synthesis. The WCO Harmonized System Nomenclature and official tariff schedules such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system explicitly list "Thionyl chloride" under this specific 8-digit subheading, confirming its precise scope.
What falls outside HS 281217?
The following products are excluded from HS 281217: other sulfur halides or halide oxides, such as sulfuryl chloride (SO₂Cl₂), which is classified under HS 2812.19.00 ("Other"). Additionally, mixtures containing thionyl chloride, where the thionyl chloride is not the predominant component or where the mixture constitutes a preparation for a specific use, would typically be classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 38 if they are chemical preparations not elsewhere specified or included. For instance, a solution of thionyl chloride in an organic solvent, if it is a specific chemical preparation, might fall under HS 3824.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281217?
A common error is misclassifying other sulfur-chlorine compounds, such as sulfuryl chloride (SO₂Cl₂), as thionyl chloride due to their similar chemical nature and uses. Sulfuryl chloride, despite being a halide oxide of sulfur, is distinct and correctly classified under HS 2812.19.00. Another mistake involves classifying mixtures or preparations containing thionyl chloride directly under HS 281217 when, according to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b), the essential character of the product is imparted by other components or its function as a preparation. Importers must ensure the product is pure thionyl chloride, not a formulated product.
How should importers classify products under HS 281217?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281217 involves first confirming the chemical identity of the substance as pure thionyl chloride (SOCl₂). Importers and customs brokers should review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to verify the chemical name, CAS number (7719-09-7 for thionyl chloride), and purity. Apply General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since "Thionyl chloride" is explicitly named at the 8-digit level, this specific enumeration takes precedence over broader categories, ensuring accurate and compliant classification.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17) in key markets, and are there any common preferential duty rates?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17) can vary significantly by importing country. For example, the MFN duty rate might be 4.00% ad valorem in some jurisdictions, 5.50% ad valorem in others, or even as high as 25% ad valorem in specific markets. Importers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff) for the precise MFN rate.
Preferential duty rates are frequently available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For HS 2812.17, 'Free' (0% ad valorem) duty rates are common for goods originating from countries party to agreements such as those with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic (D) (often referring to CAFTA-DR members), El Salvador (E) (CAFTA-DR), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), Panama (PA), Singapore (SG), and others. To claim preferential duty, importers must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin criteria of the applicable trade agreement and possess the necessary documentation (e.g., a Certificate of Origin).
What are the key classification criteria for Thionyl Chloride under HS 2812.17, and what distinguishes it from other inorganic acid halides?
Thionyl Chloride is classified under Harmonized System (HS) subheading 2812.17. This subheading specifically covers 'Thionyl chloride'. The broader heading 2812 encompasses 'Halides and halide oxides of non-metals; other inorganic esters, salts thereof and their derivatives'. The key classification criterion for 2812.17 is the precise chemical identity of the substance: SOCl₂.
What distinguishes it from other inorganic acid halides within heading 2812 (e.g., sulfuryl chloride, phosphorus trichloride) is its specific chemical composition and structure. Thionyl chloride is an acid chloride of sulfurous acid, characterized by a sulfur atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to two chlorine atoms. Correct classification relies on accurate chemical identification, typically confirmed by chemical analysis or manufacturer's specifications. Importers should ensure product documentation clearly identifies the substance as thionyl chloride to avoid misclassification.
What specific documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the import of Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17), given its chemical nature?
Due to its chemical nature and potential hazards, customs authorities often require specific documentation for the import of Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17) in addition to standard import documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. Key documents may include:
- Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS): This is crucial for identifying chemical properties, hazards, safe handling, and emergency procedures. It helps customs and port authorities assess compliance with safety regulations.
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA): Confirms the chemical composition, purity, and specifications of the imported thionyl chloride, supporting the HS classification.
- Dangerous Goods Declaration: If transported as dangerous goods (which thionyl chloride typically is, falling under UN 1836, Class 8 Corrosive), a compliant dangerous goods declaration is mandatory, adhering to IMDG Code (maritime), IATA DGR (air), or ADR/RID (road/rail) regulations.
- Permits/Licenses: Depending on the importing country and its chemical control regulations, specific import permits or licenses from environmental, health, or chemical regulatory bodies may be required. This is particularly relevant for substances that could be precursors or are subject to specific national chemical inventories or restrictions.
Importers should verify all national and international regulations applicable to hazardous chemicals for the specific destination country well in advance of shipment.
How do common trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU-UK TCA, specifically affect the import duty rates for Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17)?
Common trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for Thionyl Chloride (HS 2812.17) by offering preferential treatment, typically a 'Free' (0% ad valorem) duty rate, provided the goods meet the agreement's Rules of Origin.
For example, under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Thionyl Chloride originating in Mexico or Canada and imported into the United States (or vice versa) would generally be eligible for a 0% duty rate, provided the origin criteria are met. Similarly, for trade between the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), Thionyl Chloride originating in the EU and imported into the UK (or vice versa) would typically benefit from a 0% duty rate, subject to compliance with the TCA's Rules of Origin.
Importers must understand that merely shipping from a partner country is not sufficient; the product must 'originate' there according to the specific rules of the agreement. This often involves criteria related to where the product was wholly obtained or underwent substantial transformation. Customs brokers play a critical role in verifying origin and preparing the necessary declarations (e.g., USMCA certification of origin, EU-UK TCA statement on origin) to claim these preferential rates.