HS 290347 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa) and 1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245ca)

What products does HS 290347 cover?

This subheading covers specific fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons, namely 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa) and 1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245ca). These are isomers of pentafluoropropane, distinguished by the specific arrangement of fluorine atoms on the propane backbone. As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature, these chemical compounds are precisely defined by their molecular structure and are primarily used as blowing agents, refrigerants, and fire suppressants. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both align with the WCO's classification for these distinct chemical entities under this specific eight-digit subheading, ensuring global consistency for these industrial chemicals.

What falls outside HS 290347?

The following products are excluded from HS 290347: other isomers of pentafluoropropane not specifically named, such as 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane, which would be classified under HS 2903.49 ("Other fluorinated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons"). Furthermore, mixtures containing HFC-245fa or HFC-245ca but not consisting solely of these compounds would generally be classified under other subheadings, often in Chapter 38, specifically 3824.78 for "Mixtures containing perfluorocarbons (PFCs) or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), but not containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), of trifluoromethane, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, pentafluoroethane, 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane, or 1,1,1,2,2,3,3,3-octafluoropropane." This distinction is crucial for accurate tariff application.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 290347?

A common error is misclassifying other pentafluoropropane isomers under HS 290347, or classifying mixtures containing HFC-245fa or HFC-245ca as pure substances. For instance, a product containing 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane, while chemically similar, is not covered by the specific enumeration in 290347 and should be directed to 2903.49. Another frequent mistake involves classifying a blend of HFC-245fa with another chemical, even in minor proportions, directly under 290347. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. GRI 3(b) would apply to mixtures, often leading to classification in Chapter 38 if the mixture constitutes a preparation not elsewhere specified or included.

How should importers classify products under HS 290347?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 290347 involves several critical steps for importers and customs brokers. First, verify the precise chemical identity of the substance using chemical analysis reports, safety data sheets (SDS), or certificates of analysis. Confirm that the product is definitively either 1,1,1,3,3-Pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa) or 1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245ca) and not a mixture or another isomer. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2903 for further clarification on fluorinated derivatives. If the product is a mixture, assess its composition to determine if it meets the criteria for classification in Chapter 38. Finally, cross-reference with the USITC HTS or EU TARIC to ensure the eight-digit subheading aligns with the specific chemical nomenclature, ensuring compliance and accurate duty assessment, which for the United States is 3.5% ad valorem for HFC-245fa and HFC-245ca from most favored nation countries.