HS 381220 Compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics
Quick Answer: Compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics imported under HS 381220 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at 6.5% ad valorem or 15.4¢/kg + 57% depending on specific product and origin. This HS code covers mixtures of chemical substances designed to increase the plasticity or flexibility of rubber or plastics during processing and in the final product. Importers should be aware of potential specific duty rates and origin-based preferences, particularly in the US market, which can significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals in navigating these complexities.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3812200000 | — | — | — |
| 3812209000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3812201000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3812209010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3812209030 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3812209020 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3812200000 | — | — | — |
| 3812201000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3812209000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3812209010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 381220 | — | — | — |
| 3812201000 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3812205000 | 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 3812.20?
Imports of Compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics 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 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 381220 cover?
This subheading covers compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are chemical mixtures specifically formulated to increase the plasticity or flexibility of rubber and plastic materials during processing and in the finished product. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes preparations of plasticisers, often containing solvents or other additives, designed to impart desired physical properties to polymers.
What falls outside HS 381220?
The following products are excluded from HS 381220: pure plasticiser substances classified under their individual chemical headings (e.g., phthalates under 2917), uncompounded plasticisers, and general-purpose solvents not specifically formulated for use as plasticisers. For instance, simple mineral oils or basic organic solvents used for cleaning or as carriers but not as primary plasticising agents would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 27 or Chapter 29, depending on their specific chemical composition and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 381220?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures that contain plasticisers but are primarily intended for other uses. For example, a finished rubber or plastic compound that has already incorporated plasticisers might be mistakenly classified under HS 381220 instead of its appropriate heading for the finished article or compound. General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System, concerning mixtures or composite goods, is often relevant here, requiring classification based on the essential character of the product.
How should importers classify products under HS 381220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 381220 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition, intended use, and the specific formulation. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes, the relevant national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, UK Trade Tariff), and potentially seek laboratory analysis to confirm the primary function and composition. Understanding whether the product is a compound specifically designed to enhance plasticity is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 381220?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of "DOP-based plasticiser compound" declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.7% ad valorem as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for a similar compound, the duty would be calculated as 3.7% of $2,500, resulting in a duty amount of $92.50. This calculation is based on the ad valorem rate applied to the declared customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 381220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 381220, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free rates for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 381220, 'Compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics'?
Import duty rates for HS code 381220 vary significantly by country. For example, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.50% ad valorem. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is often 0.00% ad valorem for many origins, but can be higher for others. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a range of rates, often starting at 0.00% ad valorem for preferential origins but can be up to 6.50% for non-preferential origins. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your origin of goods.
How is the import duty for HS code 381220 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on the specific duty rate applied. For ad valorem duties (a percentage of the value), the calculation is straightforward. For instance, if importing goods classified under HS 381220 into the U.S. with a value of $10,000 and an MFN duty rate of 6.50%, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.065 = $650. Some countries may also apply specific duties (e.g., per kilogram) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, such as '15.4¢/kg + 57%'. In such a case, you would calculate the duty based on the weight and the value separately and sum them up.
What are the classification criteria for 'Compound plasticisers for rubber or plastics' under HS code 381220?
HS code 381220 covers mixtures of plasticisers, whether or not containing other substances, which are specifically prepared for use as plasticisers for rubber or plastics. Plasticisers are additives that increase the plasticity or decrease the viscosity of a material. Key classification criteria include the product's intended use (i.e., for rubber or plastics), its chemical composition (typically esters, phthalates, adipates, etc.), and whether it is presented as a compound or mixture prepared for this specific purpose, rather than a single chemical substance which might fall under Chapter 29.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 381220?
Many trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for goods classified under HS 381220. For example, the U.S. has agreements like CAFTA-DR, USMCA, and others that may offer reduced or zero duties for qualifying goods. The EU's TARIC system details preferential rates under agreements with countries like Canada (CETA), Japan (EPA), and various Mediterranean and African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries. The UK Trade Tariff also lists numerous preferential rates stemming from its independent trade agreements. To benefit from these, importers must ensure the goods meet the Rules of Origin for the specific agreement and possess the required proof of origin documentation.
What documentation is typically required for importing compound plasticisers under HS code 381220?
Standard import documentation for HS code 381220 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for chemical products, and potentially specific import licenses or permits if the plasticisers contain restricted substances or are subject to chemical control regulations. Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.