HS 290513 Butan-1-ol (n-butyl alcohol)
Quick Answer: HS code 290513 specifically covers Butan-1-ol, commonly known as n-butyl alcohol. This primary alcohol is a clear, colorless liquid used extensively as a solvent in coatings, a chemical intermediate for esters and ethers, and a component in hydraulic fluids. For importers and customs brokers, understanding the duty rates is crucial: the UK applies a 4.00% ad valorem duty, while the EU and US generally levy 5.5% ad valorem. The US offers significant duty reductions or free entry under various Free Trade Agreements (e.g., A*, AU, CL, KR), making origin determination vital for preferential tariff treatment. Conversely, non-preferential imports into the US could face a 50.5% ad valorem rate if not from an MFN country.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905130000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905130000 | 5.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2905130000 | 5.5% | 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 2905.13?
Imports of Butan-1-ol (n-butyl alcohol) 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, and 15 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 290513 cover?
This subheading covers Butan-1-ol, also known as n-butyl alcohol or 1-butanol, which is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula CH₃(CH₂)₃OH. As per the Harmonized System Nomenclature (WCO) and consistent with definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this specific isomer of butanol is characterized by the hydroxyl group (-OH) being attached to the first carbon atom in a straight chain. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic alcoholic odor, widely used as a solvent, in the production of other chemicals, and as an intermediate in various industrial processes, including the manufacture of plasticizers and brake fluids.
What falls outside HS 290513?
The following products are excluded from HS 290513: other isomers of butanol, such as butan-2-ol (sec-butyl alcohol), 2-methylpropan-1-ol (isobutyl alcohol), and 2-methylpropan-2-ol (tert-butyl alcohol), which are classified under HS 290514. Additionally, mixtures containing butan-1-ol but not consisting solely or essentially of butan-1-ol, or those prepared for specific uses (e.g., certain solvent preparations), may fall under other headings or chapters, such as Chapter 38, depending on their composition and intended use. For instance, denatured butan-1-ol, if it meets the criteria for denatured alcohol, would generally be excluded from this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 290513?
A common error is misclassifying other butanol isomers, particularly isobutyl alcohol (2-methylpropan-1-ol), under HS 290513 due to their similar chemical formulas and uses. Importers must carefully distinguish between the straight-chain primary alcohol (butan-1-ol) and its branched or secondary counterparts. This mistake often arises from insufficient attention to the precise chemical name or CAS number. Proper application of General Interpretive 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. Relying solely on the common name without verifying the exact chemical structure can lead to incorrect classification and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 290513?
The correct procedure for classifying butan-1-ol involves verifying the precise chemical identity of the product. Importers and customs brokers should always obtain a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the manufacturer, clearly stating the chemical name (Butan-1-ol), CAS number (71-36-3), and chemical formula. This documentation confirms that the product is indeed the straight-chain primary alcohol and not an isomer. Applying GRI 1, the product perfectly matches the specific description "Butan-1-ol (n-butyl alcohol)" within subheading 290513. For US imports, the duty rate is Free (0% ad valorem) for products from most favored nation (MFN) countries, as per the USITC HTSUS. For EU imports, the common customs tariff duty rate is also 0% ad valorem, as indicated in the EU TARIC database.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rate for HS 2905.13 (Butan-1-ol) in key markets, and are there any significant variations?
The MFN (Most Favored Nation) import duty rate for HS 2905.13 (Butan-1-ol) varies by importing country. For instance, the United States generally applies a 4.0% 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 rate of 5.5% ad valorem. The UK Global Tariff also lists a 5.5% ad valorem duty. Importers should always verify the specific MFN rate applicable to their destination country using official tariff schedules like the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff, as rates can be subject to change.
Which preferential trade agreements offer duty-free treatment for Butan-1-ol (HS 2905.13) when imported into the United States?
For imports into the United States, Butan-1-ol (HS 2905.13) can qualify for duty-free treatment under various preferential trade agreements and programs, provided all rules of origin are met. Common programs include: Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR, 'D' for specific countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG). Additionally, certain Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary countries may qualify for duty-free treatment (indicated by 'A*' or 'A' in the HTSUS) if the product is GSP eligible. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim these preferential rates.
What are the key classification criteria for Butan-1-ol under HS 2905.13, and what common misclassifications should be avoided?
Butan-1-ol, also known as n-butyl alcohol, is classified under HS subheading 2905.13. This subheading specifically covers 'Butan-1-ol (n-butyl alcohol)'. The primary classification criterion is the chemical identity of the substance as a saturated monohydric acyclic alcohol with four carbon atoms, where the hydroxyl group is attached to the first carbon. It is crucial to distinguish Butan-1-ol from its isomers, such as Butan-2-ol (sec-butyl alcohol), 2-Methylpropan-1-ol (isobutyl alcohol), and 2-Methylpropan-2-ol (tert-butyl alcohol), which are classified under HS 2905.14. Misclassification often arises from confusing these isomers, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties. Importers should rely on chemical analysis and product specifications to confirm the exact isomer being imported.
What specific documentation is required by customs authorities for the import of Butan-1-ol (HS 2905.13), beyond standard shipping documents?
Beyond standard shipping documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers of Butan-1-ol (HS 2905.13) may need specific documentation depending on the importing country and intended use. For claiming preferential duty rates under free trade agreements, a valid Certificate of Origin (e.g., FTA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1, or GSP Form A) is essential. Due to its chemical nature, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is typically required for hazard communication and may be requested by customs or other regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA in the US, ECHA in the EU). Furthermore, compliance with chemical control regulations (e.g., TSCA in the US, REACH in the EU) may necessitate declarations or registration numbers, though these are often managed by the importer/manufacturer rather than presented directly at customs clearance, customs may require proof of compliance.