HS 381511 Supported catalysts
Quick Answer: Supported catalysts imported under HS 381511 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US with a duty-free Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, though a 25% rate may apply under certain circumstances. This HS code encompasses catalysts, which are substances that accelerate chemical reactions, specifically those that are prepared or supported on a base material. These supported catalysts are crucial in various industrial processes, including petroleum refining and chemical manufacturing. Importers should verify specific MFN status and any potential additional duties for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815110000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815110000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3815110000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 381511 cover?
This subheading covers supported catalysts, which are chemical substances or mixtures used to accelerate chemical reactions, specifically those where the active catalytic material is dispersed on or incorporated into a support material. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, these catalysts are typically solid and designed for specific industrial processes, such as petrochemical refining or chemical synthesis, with the support providing structural integrity and increased surface area for the active component.
What falls outside HS 381511?
The following products are excluded from HS 381511: unsupported catalysts, which are typically in powder or pellet form without a distinct carrier material, and catalysts that are not specifically designed for chemical reactions, such as those used for air purification or water treatment unless they meet the criteria of being supported catalysts for chemical processes. Also excluded are catalysts that are considered finished articles for a specific use, like catalytic converters for vehicles, which are classified under their respective headings, and raw materials that are not yet processed into a catalytic form, even if they possess catalytic properties.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 381511?
A common error is misclassifying unsupported catalysts under this subheading. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. For HS 381511, the "supported" aspect is crucial; if the catalyst is not on or in a support material, it falls under HS 381512 (Unsupported catalysts). Another mistake is classifying catalysts for non-chemical reaction purposes, such as those used in filtration or adsorption, which belong to different chapters based on their primary function.
How should importers classify products under HS 381511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 381511 involves a detailed examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed a catalyst, that it is intended for accelerating chemical reactions, and crucially, that the active catalytic material is dispersed on or incorporated into a support material. Consulting the WCO Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is essential to confirm that the product meets all defining characteristics of a supported catalyst.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 381511?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of alumina-supported platinum catalyst for petroleum refining, declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,250 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $25,000 USD = $1,250 USD. This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 381511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 381511, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for eligible goods from member countries like Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 381511, 'Supported catalysts'?
Import duty rates for HS code 381511, 'Supported catalysts', vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.50% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may be lower or even free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty rate based on the origin of the goods. The USITC (U.S. International Trade Commission) provides detailed tariff information for the United States.
How is HS code 381511, 'Supported catalysts', classified? What are the key criteria?
HS code 381511 specifically covers 'Supported catalysts, metallic'. Classification hinges on two primary criteria: 1) the material must function as a catalyst, meaning it accelerates a chemical reaction without being consumed itself, and 2) it must be 'supported'. A support is a material, often porous and inert, onto which the active catalytic substance is deposited or impregnated to provide a large surface area or mechanical strength. For this specific subheading, the active catalytic substance must be metallic. Documentation from the manufacturer detailing the composition and function of the product is essential for accurate classification. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes which offer guidance on classification principles.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 381511?
When importing goods under HS code 381511, importers and customs brokers should be prepared to provide several key documents. These typically include a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Crucially, a technical datasheet or manufacturer's declaration confirming the product's classification as a supported metallic catalyst is often required by customs authorities to verify the HS code. Specific import regulations or licensing requirements for chemical substances in the importing country should also be investigated.
How is the import duty for HS code 381511 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 381511 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate for HS 381511 in the United States is 6.50% ad valorem, and an importer declares a shipment of supported metallic catalysts with a customs value of $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 6.50% = $650 USD. It is important to note that other duties, taxes, and fees may also apply depending on the importing country's regulations.
Do common trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 381511?
Yes, common trade agreements can significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 381511. For instance, goods originating from countries that are signatories to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may be eligible for preferential duty rates, potentially even free entry, provided they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union (EU) has numerous trade agreements with third countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on imported goods, including catalysts. Importers must verify the origin of their supported catalysts and consult the relevant preferential trade agreement schedules, such as those available through the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff, to determine eligibility and claim lower duty rates.