HS 382211 Diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits
Quick Answer: Diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits, imported under HS 382211 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification covers ready-to-use substances or mixtures designed for medical diagnostic testing or laboratory analysis. These can include items like test strips, culture media, or calibration solutions, often presented in convenient kits. Importers should verify specific product composition and intended use, as certain specialized reagents might fall under different subheadings. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for trade facilitation.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3822110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3822110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3822110000 | 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 382211 cover?
This subheading covers diagnostic or laboratory reagents that are presented on a backing, or prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents, irrespective of whether they are on a backing or presented in kit form. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these are substances or preparations specifically designed for use in medical, veterinary, or laboratory diagnostics, or for scientific research. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this, defining these as ready-to-use reagents for testing, analysis, or identification purposes, often containing specific antibodies, antigens, enzymes, or nucleic acids.
What falls outside HS 382211?
The following products are excluded from HS 382211: bulk chemicals or raw materials that require further preparation before use as reagents, finished diagnostic kits for direct patient use (which may fall under Chapter 30), and general laboratory equipment or consumables not specifically designed as diagnostic or laboratory reagents. For instance, sterile petri dishes, general-purpose laboratory glassware, or bulk analytical standards not presented in a ready-to-use diagnostic format are typically classified elsewhere, often under headings like 3926 for plastics or 7017 for glass.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 382211?
A common error is misclassifying diagnostic or laboratory reagents that are not specifically prepared or presented for diagnostic or laboratory use. For example, bulk chemicals that can be used in a laboratory but are not formulated as a specific reagent for a particular test or diagnostic purpose may be incorrectly classified here. General pharmaceutical preparations, even if used in a laboratory setting, should be classified under Chapter 30 if they meet the criteria for medicinal products, as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1.
How should importers classify products under HS 382211?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 382211 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and presentation. Importers and customs brokers must verify if the substance or preparation is specifically designed and marketed for diagnostic or laboratory purposes. This includes confirming if it is presented on a backing or as part of a kit. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific product descriptions and examples is crucial for accurate classification, ensuring compliance with all relevant trade regulations.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 382211?
A shipment of 100 units of a COVID-19 rapid antigen test kit, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 10% = $50.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies the applicable duty for HS code 382211.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 382211?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 382211, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico may receive a duty-free rate. To claim this preference, a compliant origin declaration is required. Additionally, for goods originating from certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A certificate of origin is typically needed to achieve preferential duty rates, which can be as low as 0% for eligible products.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 382211 (Diagnostic or laboratory reagents)?
For HS code 382211, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are often 0.00% in many major trading blocs. For instance, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS), the general rate is Free. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty of Free for this classification. The EU TARIC database also typically shows a 0.00% duty rate for goods classified under this heading. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and the origin of the goods.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 382211 if a duty were applicable?
While the duty rates for HS 382211 are commonly 0.00%, if a duty were applicable, it would typically be calculated as an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a hypothetical duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem applied to a shipment of diagnostic reagents valued at $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.035 = $350. If a specific duty of $0.50 per kilogram applied and the shipment weighed 500 kg, the duty would be 500 kg * $0.50/kg = $250. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule for the importing country to determine the correct duty calculation method and rate.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 382211?
When importing diagnostic or laboratory reagents under HS code 382211, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the reagents, additional documentation may be necessary, such as a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or specific import permits from health or regulatory authorities. Importers and customs brokers should consult the importing country's customs agency for a comprehensive list.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 382211?
Yes, common trade agreements can affect the duty rates for HS code 382211. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may qualify for preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free importation if all origin criteria are met. Similarly, trade agreements between the European Union and third countries can provide reduced or zero duty rates for goods classified under this heading. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin.
What are the key criteria for classifying reagents under HS code 382211, distinguishing them from other chemical preparations?
The key criteria for classifying products under HS code 382211 are that they must be 'diagnostic or laboratory reagents on a backing, prepared diagnostic or laboratory reagents whether or not on a backing, whether or not put up in the form of kits.' This means the product must be specifically formulated and presented for use in medical diagnostics, scientific research, or laboratory testing. The preparation should contain specific active ingredients or be designed to react with other substances to produce a discernible result (e.g., a color change, a precipitate). Products that are general-purpose chemicals or raw materials not specifically prepared for diagnostic or laboratory use would likely fall under different HS codes (e.g., Chapter 29 for organic chemicals or Chapter 38.21 for culture media).