HS 340399 Other

HS code 340399 covers 'Other' lubricating preparations not containing petroleum or bituminous oils. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate can vary significantly by country. For example, the US MFN rate is 4.00%. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can substantially reduce or eliminate duties. For instance, under the USMCA, goods from Canada and Mexico may be eligible for Free entry. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed breakdowns of preferential rates for various trading partners. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for any applicable preferential treatment, which often requires a valid Certificate of Origin.

HS code 340399 is a residual category for lubricating preparations that are not specifically covered by other headings within 3403. This includes preparations for the treatment of textiles, leather, furskins, or other materials, as well as other lubricating preparations not containing petroleum or bituminous oils. Key classification criteria revolve around the product's function (lubrication) and its composition (absence of petroleum or bituminous oils, unless they are present only as auxiliaries). If a preparation is primarily for lubricating moving parts, and its base is not petroleum or bituminous oil, it would likely fall here. If it contains significant amounts of petroleum or bituminous oils, it would be classified under 3403.10. If it's a preparation for treating textiles, leather, etc., but its primary function isn't lubrication, other headings might apply.

Standard import documentation for HS code 340399 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documents may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm chemical composition and handling precautions, and potentially a specific import license or permit if the product is subject to regulatory controls (e.g., for environmental or health reasons). Importers and customs brokers should always verify the specific requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.

The duty calculation for HS code 340399 depends on whether the duty rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For an ad valorem duty, the calculation is: Duty Amount = (Customs Value of Goods × Duty Rate). For example, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and the customs value of a shipment of lubricating preparation is $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 × 0.04 = $400. If the duty were a specific rate, such as $0.50 per liter, and you imported 1,000 liters, the duty would be 1,000 liters × $0.50/liter = $500. It is essential to identify the correct basis of duty calculation from the importing country's tariff schedule.

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS code 340399. For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), and various nations in Central America and the Caribbean. The EU has its Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) and numerous bilateral agreements offering reduced or zero duties. The UK, post-Brexit, maintains its own tariff schedule with preferential rates for many trading partners. Examples of preferential rates mentioned include Free (A+, AU, CL, CO, KR, MA, PE, SG) and 3.25% (JP) under specific agreements. Importers must consult the specific terms of agreements like the USMCA, EU Association Agreements, UK's Global Tariff, and others to confirm eligibility and required documentation, typically a Certificate of Origin.