HS 340530 Polishes and similar preparations for coachwork, other than metal polishes
Quick Answer: Polishes and similar preparations for coachwork, other than metal polishes, imported under HS 340530 enter the UK at 0.00% and the EU at 0.00%. In the United States, this classification faces a more varied landscape, with some products entering duty-free and others subject to a 25% ad valorem duty. This code specifically covers products designed for cleaning, protecting, and enhancing the appearance of vehicle exteriors, such as car waxes, polishes, and glazes, excluding those intended for metal surfaces. Importers should verify the specific product's characteristics against the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule to determine the applicable duty rate. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate customs declarations and cost management.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3405300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3405300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3405300000 | 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 340530 cover?
This subheading covers polishes and similar preparations specifically designed for coachwork, excluding those intended for metal. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these preparations are typically used to clean, shine, and protect the painted surfaces of vehicles. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes liquid, paste, or powder formulations containing waxes, silicones, or other polishing agents, formulated for automotive finishes.
What falls outside HS 340530?
The following products are excluded from HS 340530: metal polishes, which are classified under HS 3405300000 in some jurisdictions or under other headings depending on their primary function and composition. Also excluded are general household cleaning preparations not specifically for coachwork, automotive waxes intended solely for protection without significant polishing action, and industrial cleaning compounds. For instance, a metal polish for chrome trim would not fall here, nor would a general-purpose degreaser for engine parts.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 340530?
A common error is misclassifying products that have dual purposes or are borderline. For example, some all-in-one automotive detailing products that offer cleaning, polishing, and protection might be incorrectly classified if their primary intended use isn't clearly for polishing coachwork. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods or mixtures is crucial, requiring classification based on the essential character of the product, which in this case is the polishing of coachwork.
How should importers classify products under HS 340530?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 340530 involves a detailed examination of the product's composition, intended use, and marketing claims. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 3405. Confirming that the preparation is specifically formulated for the exterior painted surfaces of vehicles, and not for metal parts or general cleaning, is paramount for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 340530?
A 1-liter bottle of "Premium Car Wax Polish" declared at a customs value of $15.00 USD, intended for coachwork, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be calculated as $15.00 (declared value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $0.53. This calculation demonstrates the application of an ad valorem duty based on the declared value of the imported goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 340530?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 340530, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the product and country of origin.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 340530 (Polishes and similar preparations for coachwork)?
Import duty rates for HS code 340530 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate is 3.5% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff lists a rate of 4.2% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change and be affected by trade agreements.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 340530?
HS code 340530 covers polishes and similar preparations specifically designed for coachwork, which refers to the bodywork of vehicles (cars, trucks, etc.). This includes products intended for cleaning, polishing, waxing, or protecting the exterior surfaces of vehicles. Preparations for polishing metal parts of vehicles, or for cleaning and polishing interiors, would generally fall under different HS codes. The key is the intended application on the exterior vehicle body.
How is the import duty for HS code 340530 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation typically depends on whether the duty rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For an ad valorem rate, the duty is calculated as: Duty Rate × Customs Value of the Goods. For example, if a shipment of car polish classified under HS 340530 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% (as an example for EU TARIC), the duty would be 0.035 × $10,000 = $350. If there is a specific duty component (e.g., per liter), it would be applied in addition to or instead of the ad valorem rate, depending on the tariff structure.
Are there common trade agreements that might affect the duty rates for HS code 340530?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country may benefit from preferential duty rates, potentially reducing or eliminating duties. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin requirements for the specific FTA to claim preferential treatment. For example, products imported into the United States from countries with which the US has an FTA might be eligible for duty-free entry under the terms of that agreement, even if the standard MFN rate is not Free.
What documentation is typically required when importing products under HS code 340530?
Standard import documentation for HS code 340530 typically includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product composition, a Certificate of Origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are being claimed under a trade agreement. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) might also be requested to ensure compliance with chemical safety regulations. It is advisable to verify the exact documentation requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country or consult with a customs broker.