HS 281410 Anhydrous ammonia
Quick Answer: HS code 281410 specifically covers "Anhydrous ammonia," which is ammonia in its pure, water-free gaseous or liquid form. This essential industrial chemical is widely used in fertilizer production, refrigeration, and various chemical manufacturing processes. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty landscape is crucial. In the United States, imports of anhydrous ammonia under 281410 are generally "Free" of duty. Conversely, the European Union applies a 5.50% ad valorem duty, while the United Kingdom levies a 4.00% ad valorem duty. These varying rates highlight the importance of origin determination and proper customs valuation to ensure compliance and optimize trade costs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2814100000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2814100000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2814100000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 281410 cover?
This subheading covers anhydrous ammonia, which is defined as ammonia (NH₃) in its pure, water-free gaseous or liquefied form. As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature, specifically Chapter 28, Heading 2814 encompasses "Ammonia, anhydrous or in aqueous solution." Subheading 281410 precisely isolates the anhydrous form, meaning it contains no water. This product is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, commonly used in fertilizers, refrigerants, and various industrial chemical processes. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this WCO interpretation, specifying the absence of water as the key distinguishing characteristic for classification here.
What falls outside HS 281410?
The following products are excluded from HS 281410: aqueous solutions of ammonia, which are classified under HS 281420. Aqueous ammonia, also known as ammonia water or ammonium hydroxide, is ammonia dissolved in water and possesses different physical and chemical properties and applications. For instance, household cleaning products containing ammonia are typically aqueous solutions and would fall under 281420, not 281410. Similarly, complex nitrogenous fertilizers that contain ammonia as a component but are not pure anhydrous ammonia, such as ammonium nitrate or urea, are classified under Chapter 31, "Fertilizers," reflecting their specific end-use and chemical composition beyond simple anhydrous ammonia.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 281410?
A common error is misclassifying aqueous ammonia solutions as anhydrous ammonia, or vice-versa. This mistake often arises from a lack of precise chemical specification on import documentation. Importers might incorrectly assume "ammonia" broadly refers to all forms, overlooking the critical distinction of "anhydrous" (without water) versus "aqueous solution" (with water). Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial. Failing to verify the water content leads to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues, as the two subheadings carry different legal implications and sometimes different trade measures.
How should importers classify products under HS 281410?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 281410 involves verifying that the imported product is indeed anhydrous ammonia, meaning it contains no water. Importers and customs brokers should obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, which explicitly states the chemical composition and confirms the absence of water. This documentation serves as primary evidence. If the product is confirmed as pure, water-free ammonia, then HS 281410 is appropriate. If any water is present, even in small quantities, the product must be classified under HS 281420. Always cross-reference with the latest official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff, to ensure accuracy and compliance with current regulations and duty rates.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2814.10 (Anhydrous ammonia) in major markets?
The MFN import duty rates for HS 2814.10 can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States generally applies a 'Free' rate under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for MFN imports. The European Union's TARIC database also typically indicates a 'Free' rate for MFN imports. However, other countries may apply specific ad valorem rates; for instance, some jurisdictions might apply rates such as 4.00% ad valorem or 5.50% ad valorem. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the most current and accurate MFN duty rate applicable to their specific origin and destination.
Are there any preferential duty rates available for anhydrous ammonia (HS 2814.10) under common trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are often available for anhydrous ammonia (HS 2814.10) under various free trade agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs. For instance, imports into the United States from countries party to agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), or originating from Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary countries, may qualify for a 'Free' duty rate, provided all rules of origin requirements are met. Similarly, the EU offers preferential rates under agreements such as those with the UK (TCA), South Korea, or under GSP schemes. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates. Always verify the specific agreement's rules of origin and documentation requirements.
What are the key classification criteria for anhydrous ammonia under HS 2814.10?
HS code 2814.10 specifically covers 'Ammonia, anhydrous'. The primary classification criterion is that the product must be ammonia (NH3) and in an anhydrous (water-free) state. This distinguishes it from aqueous ammonia solutions, which are classified under HS 2814.20. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 28 provide further guidance, confirming that this heading covers chemically pure or commercially pure anhydrous ammonia. The physical state (e.g., compressed gas, liquefied gas) does not alter its classification under this subheading, as long as it remains anhydrous ammonia.
What specific documentation is typically required for importing anhydrous ammonia (HS 2814.10)?
Beyond standard customs documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importing anhydrous ammonia (HS 2814.10) often requires additional regulatory and safety documentation due to its hazardous nature. This may include: 1) A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) detailing its properties, hazards, and safe handling. 2) Compliance with national chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU). 3) Permits or licenses for the import, storage, or handling of hazardous materials, depending on the importing country's regulations. 4) A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) to confirm the product's purity and anhydrous state. 5) If claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate) is essential. Importers should consult their customs broker and relevant national regulatory bodies for a comprehensive list of requirements.