HS 382370 Industrial fatty alcohols
Quick Answer: Industrial fatty alcohols imported under HS 382370 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.80% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from free to 39.5% ad valorem depending on origin. This HS code covers a range of alcohols derived from natural fats and oils, used in various industrial applications such as detergents, cosmetics, and lubricants. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available in the US based on specific trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823700010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3823700090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823700010 | 3.80 % | — | — |
| 3823700090 | 3.80 % | — | — |
| 3823700000 | 3.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3823702000 | 5.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3823706000 | 2.4% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3823704000 | 2% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 382370 | — | — | — |
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 3823.70?
Imports of Industrial fatty alcohols 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 382370 cover?
This subheading covers industrial fatty alcohols, which are defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) as alcohols derived from fats and oils. These are typically long-chain aliphatic alcohols, often saturated or unsaturated, with an even number of carbon atoms, produced through the reduction of fatty acids or their esters. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes products such as lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, and stearyl alcohol when intended for industrial use, excluding those specifically listed elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 382370?
The following products are excluded from HS 382370: synthetic alcohols (which fall under HS 2905), alcohols derived from petroleum or natural gas (unless they meet the definition of fatty alcohols derived from fats and oils), and alcohols used primarily for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or food applications, which are classified in other headings. For example, pure glycerol (glycerine), a co-product of fat saponification, is classified under HS 2905.45, and ethanol for potable use is classified under HS 2208.90.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 382370?
A common error is misclassifying fatty alcohols based solely on their chemical structure without considering their intended industrial use or origin. For instance, if a fatty alcohol is purified to a very high degree and intended for cosmetic formulations, it might be incorrectly classified under 382370 instead of a heading for cosmetic ingredients. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 382370?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 382370 involves a thorough review of the product's technical specifications, including its derivation (from fats/oils vs. petrochemicals), chain length, purity, and intended application. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and cross-reference with WCO Explanatory Notes. A detailed product description and a supplier's declaration are essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 382370?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of industrial stearyl alcohol, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,500 USD × 5.0% = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 382370.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 382370?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 382370, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries. To claim preferential treatment under USMCA, a valid origin declaration is required, while GSP typically necessitates a Form A certificate of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 382370, 'Industrial fatty alcohols'?
The import duty rates for HS code 382370, 'Industrial fatty alcohols', vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 3.80% ad valorem duty rate under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union's TARIC system generally lists a 3.80% ad valorem duty rate for this classification. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a 3.80% ad valorem rate. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment, as preferential agreements can alter these rates.
How are 'Industrial fatty alcohols' defined for HS classification under 382370?
Under HS code 382370, 'Industrial fatty alcohols' refer to alcohols derived from natural fats and oils, typically with a chain length of 8 to 22 carbon atoms. These are distinct from synthetic alcohols or those intended for pharmaceutical or cosmetic use, which may fall under different HS codes. The key criterion is their origin (from fats and oils) and their intended industrial application, such as in the production of surfactants, lubricants, or plasticizers. Verification of the product's technical specifications and intended use is essential for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing 'Industrial fatty alcohols' under HS code 382370?
When importing 'Industrial fatty alcohols' (HS 382370), standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the fatty alcohols, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Some jurisdictions may also require a safety data sheet (SDS) or a certificate of analysis (CoA) to confirm the product's composition and compliance with relevant regulations.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for 'Industrial fatty alcohols' (HS 382370)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS 382370. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods may qualify for reduced or zero duty if they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, agreements like the EU's Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) with African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, or the EU-South Korea Free Trade Agreement, can offer preferential treatment. Importers should verify the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement, including rules of origin and necessary documentation (e.g., EUR.1 certificate or origin declaration), to claim these benefits.
How is the import duty for 'Industrial fatty alcohols' calculated? Provide an example.
The import duty for 'Industrial fatty alcohols' (HS 382370) 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 is 3.80% and you import 1,000 kilograms of industrial fatty alcohols with a declared customs value of $2,500 USD, the calculation would be: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. Therefore, Duty = $2,500 USD × 3.80% = $95 USD. Some countries might also apply specific duties based on weight or volume, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so always confirm the applicable duty calculation method.