HS 382550 Wastes of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids and anti-freeze fluids
Quick Answer: Wastes of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, and anti-freeze fluids imported under HS 382550 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US duty-free. This classification covers spent liquids generated from metal treatment processes, as well as used hydraulic, brake, and anti-freeze fluids. Importers should be aware of potential environmental regulations and disposal requirements in the importing country, which may be more stringent than tariff rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3825500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3825500000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3825500000 | 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 382550 cover?
This subheading covers wastes of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, and anti-freeze fluids, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, these are typically spent or residual products from industrial processes or used automotive fluids that are no longer fit for their original purpose but may still contain valuable components or require specialized disposal. For example, spent pickling liquors from metal treatment facilities are included.
What falls outside HS 382550?
The following products are excluded from HS 382550: new or unused hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, or anti-freeze fluids, which would be classified according to their specific chemical composition under Chapter 29 or 34. Also excluded are wastes of other specific materials not listed, such as general industrial wastes or municipal solid waste. For instance, used engine oil, while a fluid waste, is typically classified under HS 2710.99, not 382550.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 382550?
A common error is misclassifying new or virgin fluids as waste, or vice versa. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the HS emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify mixed wastes without properly identifying the predominant component or the specific nature of the waste stream, leading to misapplication of duty rates or environmental regulations.
How should importers classify products under HS 382550?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 382550 involves a thorough examination of the product's origin, composition, and intended use or disposal. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and potentially the WCO Explanatory Notes. It is crucial to determine if the product is indeed a "waste" and specifically falls within the categories of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, or anti-freeze fluids.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 382550?
A shipment of 10,000 liters of spent anti-freeze fluid, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0 USD if it qualifies for duty-free treatment under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, as the HTSUS lists a 0% MFN duty for this specific subheading. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which is 0% ad valorem for HS 382550.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 382550?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 382550, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for goods meeting origin criteria. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific jurisdiction and value thresholds.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 382550 (Wastes of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids and anti-freeze fluids)?
Import duty rates for HS code 382550 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 6.50% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the USMCA may have a 0.00% duty rate. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also provide detailed duty rate information for this heading.
How is the import duty for HS code 382550 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 382550 is typically based on the ad valorem system, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.50% and the declared customs value of a shipment of brake fluid waste is $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) * 0.0650 (Duty Rate) = $650.00 USD. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per liter) also applies, the calculation would involve both value and quantity.
What are the key classification criteria for classifying goods under HS code 382550?
HS code 382550 covers 'Wastes of metal-pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids and anti-freeze fluids'. The primary classification criterion is that the product must be a waste or residue from the specified industrial processes or products. For example, spent hydraulic fluid that is no longer fit for its original purpose and is intended for disposal or reprocessing would fall under this code. Clean, unused hydraulic fluid or brake fluid would be classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 27 or 29, depending on its composition.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 382550?
When importing waste products like those under HS code 382550, specific documentation is crucial. This often includes a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, a commercial invoice, and a packing list. Additionally, depending on the country of import and the nature of the waste, you may need a waste manifest, environmental permits, or certificates of origin. Compliance with environmental regulations, such as those governed by the EPA in the United States or equivalent bodies internationally, is paramount. Importers should verify specific requirements with customs authorities and relevant environmental agencies.
Do trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 382550?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 382550. For instance, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, certain goods may enter duty-free. Similarly, bilateral or regional trade agreements, such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), often provide for reduced or eliminated tariffs on goods originating from member countries. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim preferential treatment under any applicable trade agreement.