HS 320649 Other
Quick Answer: Other inorganic pigments and preparations thereof, not elsewhere specified, imported under HS 320649 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 5.9% ad valorem or 15.4¢/kg + 45% depending on the specific product and origin. This residual classification applies to inorganic pigments and their preparations that do not fit into more specific HS headings within Chapter 32. Importers and customs brokers should carefully review the specific composition and intended use of the pigment to ensure accurate classification, as the US tariff can vary significantly based on these factors. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206490000 | — | — | — |
| 3206497000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206497040 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206497060 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3206491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206490000 | — | — | — |
| 3206491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3206497050 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206497000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3206497020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3206491000 | 5.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3206493000 | 1.3% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3206495500 | 3.7% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3206496010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 3206496050 | — | — | ["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 3206.49?
Imports of Other 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 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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 320649 cover?
This subheading covers other pigments and preparations based on inorganic substances, not elsewhere specified or included in this heading. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses a wide array of inorganic colorants and their mixtures that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Heading 3206. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this as "Other preparations of a kind used as colorants." Examples include certain synthetic iron oxides, chromium oxides, and other inorganic colorants not specifically listed in preceding subheadings, provided they are presented as preparations or mixtures.
What falls outside HS 320649?
The following products are excluded from HS 320649: pigments and preparations based on titanium dioxide (HS 3206.10), pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds (HS 3206.20), and pigments and preparations based on iron oxides and hydroxides (HS 3206.41). Also excluded are inorganic products of a kind used as luminous or "daylight" fluorescent pigments (HS 3206.42). For example, pure titanium dioxide pigment, even if used as a colorant, would be classified under HS 3206.10, not 320649.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 320649?
A common error is misclassifying specific inorganic pigments that have their own dedicated subheadings under Heading 3206. For example, classifying a preparation of chromium oxide green (HS 3206.20) as "other" under 320649 is incorrect. Another mistake arises from not correctly applying General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify organic pigments or preparations under this subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 320649?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 320649 involves a systematic review of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff. They should verify that the product is an inorganic pigment or preparation and that it is not specifically provided for in any preceding subheading of HS Heading 3206. A detailed technical data sheet is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 320649?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of synthetic iron oxide red pigment, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for a product that might fall under HS 320649 if not specifically classified elsewhere.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 320649?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 320649, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for certain developing countries. Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. For GSP beneficiaries, the rate can also be Free, depending on the specific country and product. To claim preference under USMCA, a compliant origin declaration is required, while GSP typically necessitates a GSP Form A or a self-certified origin statement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 320649, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 320649, covering 'Other pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds,' generally faces Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates that can vary. For instance, the United States applies a 6.5% ad valorem duty. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For example, under the US-Korea FTA, the duty rate is Free. Importers should always consult the latest tariff schedule for the importing country and specific FTA provisions to determine applicable rates. The EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed information on these rates and preferential access.
How is the import duty for HS code 320649 calculated, especially when it involves a combination of ad valorem and specific duties?
Duty calculation for HS 320649 can be complex if it involves a combination of ad valorem (percentage of value) and specific duties (per unit of weight or volume). For example, a hypothetical rate of '15.4¢/kg + 45% ad valorem' means you would calculate the duty based on the weight and the value separately, then sum them. If you import 100 kg of a product valued at $1,000, the specific duty would be 100 kg * 15.4¢/kg = 1540¢ or $15.40. The ad valorem duty would be 45% of $1,000, which is $450. The total duty would be $15.40 + $450 = $465.40. Always verify the exact duty calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure goods are correctly classified under HS code 320649?
HS code 320649 is a residual category for 'Other pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds' not elsewhere specified. To classify correctly, the product must contain chromium compounds and function as a pigment or preparation thereof. It should not be classifiable under more specific headings within Chapter 32, such as those for titanium dioxide (3206.11) or other inorganic pigments. The WCO's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings are crucial resources. If a product contains chromium compounds but serves a different primary function (e.g., a chemical intermediate), it would be classified elsewhere.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 320649?
Standard import documentation for HS code 320649 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the chromium compound, additional documentation might be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous materials, and potentially specific import permits or licenses if the chromium compound is subject to environmental or health regulations. Importers and customs brokers should consult the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.
Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 320649, and how can importers leverage them?
Several trade agreements may offer preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 320649. For example, agreements like the US-Australia FTA, US-Korea FTA, and various EU trade agreements often provide reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying goods. To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure their goods meet the Rules of Origin stipulated in the respective FTA. This typically requires a valid Certificate of Origin issued by the exporter or producer, demonstrating that the goods originate from the partner country. Consulting the specific FTA text and the customs regulations of the importing country is essential for compliance and claiming benefits.