HS 390140 Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, having a specific gravity of less than 0,94
Quick Answer: Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers with a specific gravity less than 0.94 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 6.50% ad valorem, and the US at 6.5% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. This classification covers copolymers of ethylene with other alpha-olefins, such as butene-1, hexene-1, or octene-1, characterized by their lower density. These materials are commonly used in flexible packaging, films, and molded articles. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate difference between the EU and the UK, and potential preferential rates available in the US for certain trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3901400010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3901400050 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3901400090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3901400030 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901400000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901400010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901400030 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901400050 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901400060 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901400000 | 6.5% | Free (16 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 3901.40?
Imports of Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, having a specific gravity of less than 0,94 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 14 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 390140 cover?
This subheading covers ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, specifically those with a specific gravity of less than 0.94. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are copolymers of ethylene with at least one alpha-olefin having four or more carbon atoms. For example, linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and very low-density polyethylene (VLDPE) with a specific gravity below 0.94 fall under this classification. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the copolymer nature and the density threshold.
What falls outside HS 390140?
The following products are excluded from HS 390140: ethylene homopolymers (polyethylene), which are classified under HS 3901.10 or 3901.20 depending on their specific gravity. Also excluded are copolymers of ethylene with other monomers not specified as alpha-olefins, or those with a specific gravity of 0.94 or greater. For instance, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers with a high vinyl acetate content or polyethylene with a specific gravity of 0.94 or higher would be classified elsewhere, typically in HS 3901.90 or other relevant polyethylene subheadings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 390140?
A common error is misinterpreting the "alpha-olefin" requirement or failing to accurately determine the specific gravity. Importers may incorrectly classify ethylene homopolymers or copolymers with other non-alpha-olefin monomers under this code. Furthermore, confusion can arise if the specific gravity is not precisely measured and falls at or above 0.94, which would necessitate classification under a different subheading, potentially HS 3901.90, as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 390140?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 390140 involves first identifying the material as a copolymer of ethylene and at least one alpha-olefin. Next, it is crucial to obtain and verify the specific gravity of the material, ensuring it is less than 0.94. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the explanatory notes for Chapter 39 to confirm the classification based on these technical specifications.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 390140?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of LLDPE resin, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $450.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.03 = $450.00). This calculation is based on the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 3901.40.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 390140?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 390140, 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 preferential rates for eligible developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP-eligible countries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 390140 (Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers, specific gravity < 0.94)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 390140 is typically 6.50% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates are available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and trade programs. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), the Dominican Republic (D), EFTA (E), Israel (IL), Jordan (JO), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), Singapore (SG), and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA, often represented by 'P' for Mexico and 'CA' for Canada, though not explicitly listed in your sample) may receive duty-free entry (Free). It is crucial to verify the specific origin of the goods and the applicable trade agreement to claim preferential treatment. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current rates.
What specific criteria define 'Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers' under HS code 390140?
HS code 390140 covers copolymers where ethylene is a principal monomer, and it is polymerized with at least one alpha-olefin. The defining characteristic for this specific subheading is that these copolymers must have a specific gravity of less than 0.94. This property is a key differentiator from other ethylene copolymers. Importers must ensure their product's technical specifications, particularly its density, align with this threshold. Laboratory testing data or manufacturer specifications are essential for classification.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 390140, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 390140 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 6.50% and you import 1,000 kilograms of these copolymers with a declared customs value of $2,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $2,000 USD × 6.50% = $130 USD. If the goods qualify for a preferential rate, such as Free, the duty would be $0 USD, provided all FTA requirements are met.
What documentation is typically required to import Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymers under HS 390140, especially when claiming preferential duty rates?
Standard import documentation for HS 390140 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. To claim preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) is generally required. The specific format and content of the COO depend on the FTA (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EU origin declaration). The COO must certify that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Additionally, technical specifications or laboratory test results confirming the specific gravity of less than 0.94 may be requested by customs authorities to verify classification.
Are there specific trade agreements that commonly offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS code 390140?
Yes, several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 390140. As indicated by the sample rates, agreements like those with Australia (AU), Bahrain (BH), Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), Israel (IL), South Korea (KR), Morocco (MA), Oman (OM), Panama (PA), Peru (PE), and Singapore (SG) often grant duty-free entry. The USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) also typically provides duty-free treatment for qualifying goods. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin for the specific agreement and obtain the necessary proof of origin to benefit from these reduced or zero duty rates.