HS 381121 Additives for lubricating oils
Quick Answer: Additives for lubricating oils imported under HS 381121 enter the UK at 4.00%, the EU at 5.30%, and the US at 6.5% under the MFN rate. This classification covers chemical products designed to enhance the performance of lubricating oils, such as those that improve viscosity, reduce friction, prevent oxidation, or inhibit corrosion. Importers should be aware that the US offers duty-free entry for certain trading partners, as indicated by CustomTariffs data. Understanding these varying rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3811210000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 3811210011 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 3811210013 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 3811210016 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 3811210010 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3811210000 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 3811210010 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 3811210021 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 3811210024 | 5.30 % | — | — |
| 3811210026 | 5.30 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3811210000 | 6.5% | 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 3811.21?
Imports of Additives for lubricating oils 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, 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 381121 cover?
This subheading covers additives for lubricating oils, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are chemical products, often complex mixtures, specifically formulated to enhance the performance characteristics of lubricating oils. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database, this includes substances designed to improve properties such as viscosity index, oxidation resistance, detergency, dispersancy, and anti-wear capabilities, thereby extending the life and efficiency of machinery.
What falls outside HS 381121?
The following products are excluded from HS 381121: basic lubricating oils themselves (typically classified under Chapter 27), greases (which are usually classified under HS 2710.19), and general-purpose chemical additives not specifically intended for lubricating oils. For instance, common industrial solvents or cleaning agents, even if they might be used in conjunction with lubricants, would be classified elsewhere based on their primary function and chemical composition, not under this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 381121?
A common error is misclassifying complex chemical mixtures that contain lubricating oil components but are primarily intended for other applications, such as hydraulic fluids or metalworking fluids. General Interpretation Rule (GIR) 1 of the Harmonized System mandates classification based on the essential character of the product. Importers may also mistakenly classify individual chemical components that are *used* in the manufacture of lubricating oil additives under this heading, rather than classifying the finished additive product itself.
How should importers classify products under HS 381121?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 381121 involves a thorough review of the product's technical specifications, intended use, and chemical composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-reference with WCO Explanatory Notes. It is crucial to determine if the product is specifically designed as an additive to enhance lubricating oil properties; if so, and it is not specifically excluded, HS 381121 is likely applicable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 381121?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of a specific anti-wear additive for engine oils, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem, the duty would be $1,850 USD ($50,000 USD × 0.037). This calculation is based on the declared value and the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 381121. If a specific quantity-based duty applied, the calculation would differ.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 381121?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 381121, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying additives originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, preferential duty rates may be available under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted) or other bilateral agreements, potentially reducing the duty to 0%. Documentation such as a self-certified origin statement or a UK Certificate of Origin is typically required to claim these preferences.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 381121, 'Additives for lubricating oils'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 381121 is typically 4.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), South Korea (KR), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free. It is crucial to verify the specific origin and eligibility under the relevant trade agreement, such as the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement or others administered by USTR. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the USITC for definitive rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 381121 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 381121 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 4.00% and you import 1,000 liters of lubricating oil additives valued at $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Value × Duty Rate = $5,000 × 4.00% = $200. If the goods are subject to a specific duty (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be based on that rate and quantity. Always ensure accurate valuation and refer to the HTSUS for the precise duty basis.
What are the classification criteria for 'Additives for lubricating oils' under HS code 381121?
HS code 381121 covers 'Additives for lubricating oils' which are chemical products, not elsewhere specified or included, used to impart special properties or enhance the performance of lubricating oils. This includes substances like pour point depressants, viscosity index improvers, anti-wear agents, detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants. The key criterion is that these substances are specifically formulated and intended for use in lubricating oils. Products that are primarily lubricating oils themselves, or base oils, would be classified elsewhere. Consult Chapter 38 of the HTSUS and Explanatory Notes from the World Customs Organization (WCO) for detailed classification guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing lubricating oil additives under HS code 381121?
For importing lubricating oil additives under HS code 381121, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, a certificate of origin is crucial if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Depending on the specific composition and end-use, importers may also need to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for chemical substances, and potentially a manufacturer's declaration confirming the product's intended use as a lubricating oil additive. Always check with the importing country's customs authority for any specific or additional requirements.
Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 381121 into the United States?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 381121 into the United States. Notably, goods originating from countries such as Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), South Korea (KR), Oman (OM), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) may benefit from reduced or duty-free entry under agreements like the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement, US-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement, US-Chile Free Trade Agreement, US-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, US-Korea Free Trade Agreement, US-Oman Free Trade Agreement, US-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, and US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, respectively. Importers must ensure they meet the rules of origin stipulated in each agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin.