HS 330520 Preparations for permanent waving or straightening
Quick Answer: Preparations for permanent waving or straightening imported under HS 330520 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a Free rate under the MFN tariff. This classification covers chemical products designed to alter the hair's structure, such as perming lotions, neutralizers, and straightening creams. Importers should be aware that while the UK and EU offer duty-free entry, the US has a Free MFN rate for these goods. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the favorable duty treatment across these major markets. Exporters should ensure product formulations align with the description to avoid misclassification.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3305200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3305200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3305200000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 330520 cover?
This subheading covers preparations specifically designed for permanent waving or straightening hair. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these products are intended to chemically alter the hair's structure to create curls or to relax existing curls. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes lotions, creams, and solutions that facilitate these permanent hair transformations, often involving reducing agents and oxidizing agents.
What falls outside HS 330520?
The following products are excluded from HS 330520: hair styling preparations that do not permanently alter the hair's structure, such as hairsprays, mousses, gels, and waxes, which are typically classified under HS 330590. Also excluded are hair conditioners, shampoos, and treatments for hair care that do not aim for permanent waving or straightening. Products intended for temporary styling or general hair maintenance, even if they contain chemicals, do not meet the specific criteria for permanent alteration required by this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 330520?
A common error is misclassifying hair straightening or smoothing treatments that are not permanent. For example, keratin treatments or Brazilian blowouts that offer semi-permanent smoothing effects but are designed to wash out over time are often incorrectly entered under 330520. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Products that do not achieve a permanent change in hair structure, as defined by the intent of permanent waving or straightening, should be classified elsewhere, typically in 330590.
How should importers classify products under HS 330520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 330520 involves a thorough review of the product's intended use and its chemical composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. They should verify that the product's primary function is permanent hair waving or straightening, as opposed to temporary styling or conditioning. Examining the product's marketing claims and ingredient list is crucial to ensure it aligns with the descriptive notes for this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 330520?
A 1-liter bottle of "Perm Solution A" for permanent waving, declared at a customs value of $15.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $2.25. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 15% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is $15.00 (declared value) × 0.15 (MFN duty rate) = $2.25. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 3305.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 330520?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 330520, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating products from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting USMCA requirements is necessary. Additionally, depending on the origin country, Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) benefits might apply, potentially offering a reduced rate or duty-free entry for eligible developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 330520 (Preparations for permanent waving or straightening)?
Import duty rates for HS code 330520 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate can be 0.00% ad valorem for goods originating from certain countries with preferential trade agreements, but a standard rate may apply otherwise. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often with preferential rates for goods from specific trade partners. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the duty for HS code 330520 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 330520 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of permanent waving preparations has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% (like the US MFN rate), the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (customs value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $350.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity, but ad valorem is most common for this category.
What are the key classification criteria for products to be classified under HS code 330520?
To be classified under HS code 330520, preparations must be specifically intended for permanent waving or straightening of hair. This typically includes two-part chemical systems (e.g., a lotion and a neutralizer) designed to alter the hair's structure to create curls or to straighten it. Products for temporary styling or conditioning are generally excluded and would fall under different HS codes, such as 3305.10 (shampoos) or 3305.90 (other hair preparations).
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing products under HS code 330520?
While specific requirements can vary, importers and customs brokers should generally be prepared to provide a commercial invoice detailing the product name, quantity, value, and country of origin. A packing list is also standard. Depending on the importing country's regulations, a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) might be requested to verify the composition and safety of the cosmetic preparations. It is crucial to verify the exact documentation needed with the customs authorities of the destination country.
How do trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect duty rates for HS code 330520?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods that meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For HS code 330520, if the preparations are manufactured in a country that has a preferential trade agreement with the importing country (e.g., a product manufactured in Mexico and imported into the US under USMCA, or a product from an ASEAN country imported into the EU under an FTA), it may qualify for a reduced or zero duty rate. Importers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim preferential treatment. Always check the specific terms and conditions of the relevant trade agreement.