HS 340241 Other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale
Quick Answer: Other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale, imported under HS 340241 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate of 4%, Free (under various preferential trade agreements), or 16.5¢/kg + 30%. This classification covers a broad range of non-ionic organic compounds that reduce surface tension, commonly used as detergents, emulsifiers, and wetting agents in industrial and household applications. Importers should carefully review the specific subheadings within the US tariff schedule, as preferential rates significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country-specific duty rates and any applicable trade agreements before shipment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3402410000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 340241 | — | — | — |
| 3402419000 | 4% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3402411000 | 4% | 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 3402.41?
Imports of Other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale 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 14 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 340241 cover?
This subheading covers other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale, that are not specifically classified under other subheadings of heading 3402. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) definitions, this includes anionic, cationic, non-ionic, and amphoteric surface-active agents that possess cleaning, emulsifying, wetting, dispersing, or foaming properties, and are not specifically enumerated elsewhere, such as soaps (3401) or specific types of detergents. These agents are often used in industrial cleaning, textile processing, and other specialized applications.
What falls outside HS 340241?
The following products are excluded from HS 340241: soaps of heading 3401, whether or not in the form of bars, cakes, or molded pieces; preparations containing surface-active agents as the single active ingredient, if they are for retail sale as soap (3401); and preparations and articles for retail sale containing surface-active agents, such as laundry detergents or dishwashing liquids, which are typically classified under 3402.20. Also excluded are surface-active agents used solely as ingredients in other products not otherwise specified, unless they meet the criteria for classification as a finished preparation.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 340241?
A common error is misclassifying finished retail preparations containing surface-active agents under this subheading, when they should be classified under HS 3402.20, which specifically covers "Preparations for use as soaps, of a kind used for retail sale, containing surface-active agents." This mistake often arises from overlooking the "put up for retail sale" aspect and the specific provisions for finished detergent products. Additionally, confusing general industrial surfactants with those specifically listed in other headings, such as those for textile finishing, can lead to incorrect classification, contrary to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1.
How should importers classify products under HS 340241?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 340241 involves a thorough examination of the product's chemical composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the relevant national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC database. They should determine if the product is an organic surface-active agent and if it is not specifically covered by a more precise heading or subheading. If the product is a preparation for retail sale, it should be directed to 3402.20. A detailed technical data sheet or chemical analysis is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 340241?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of a non-ionic surfactant, such as Nonylphenol Ethoxylate, declared at a customs value of $3,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($3,500 USD × 0.05 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 3402.41.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 340241?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 340241, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a GSP Form A, depending on the origin country and the specific agreement, is typically required by customs authorities in the importing country.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 340241, 'Other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 340241 can vary. For example, the United States applies a duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem. In contrast, the European Union's TARIC system may list a rate of 0.00% for certain origins or under specific trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment. Sources like the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the US, and the EU TARIC database for the EU, provide detailed tariff information.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 340241 if it has a compound duty rate, such as 16.5¢/kg + 30%?
A compound duty rate like 16.5¢/kg + 30% ad valorem means that two separate duties are applied. The first is a specific duty based on weight (16.5 cents per kilogram), and the second is an ad valorem duty based on the value of the goods (30% of the declared value). To calculate the total duty, you would sum the results of both calculations. For example, if you import 100 kg of product valued at $500:
Specific duty: 100 kg * $0.165/kg = $16.50 Ad valorem duty: $500 * 30% = $150.00 Total duty: $16.50 + $150.00 = $166.50.
Always verify the exact rate and currency for specific trade lanes.
What are the key classification criteria to ensure a product is correctly classified under HS code 340241?
HS code 340241 covers 'Other organic surface-active agents, whether or not put up for retail sale,' that are not specifically classified elsewhere in heading 3402. The primary criterion is that the substance must be an 'organic surface-active agent.' This means it must possess the ability to reduce the surface tension of a liquid or the interfacial tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid, and it must be organic in nature. Classification hinges on whether the agent exhibits these properties and is not a soap (heading 3401) or another specifically enumerated type of surface-active agent within heading 3402 (e.g., anionic, cationic, non-ionic, or amphoteric if they are not 'other'). If a product meets these criteria and isn't more specifically classified, it falls under 340241.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 340241, and what documentation is typically required?
Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 340241. For instance, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may receive duty-free treatment. Similarly, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) might offer reduced or zero duties, as indicated by the 'Free (A, AU, BH, CL, CO, D, E, IL, JO, KR, MA, OM, P, PA, PE, S, SG)' notation often seen in tariff schedules. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically need a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin issued by the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement. Consult the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's customs regulations for precise documentation requirements.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and packing list for importing products under HS code 340241?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard import documents, additional requirements for HS code 340241 may depend on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the product. Some countries may require a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to confirm the chemical composition and safety aspects of the organic surface-active agent. If the product is intended for specific uses, such as in cosmetics or food contact applications, additional certifications or permits related to health, safety, or environmental standards might be necessary. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific import regulations of the destination country and consult with the relevant government agencies to ensure all necessary documentation is in order.