HS 390190 Other
Quick Answer: Plastics in primary forms, not otherwise specified under HS 390190, enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US with rates varying from Free to 20%. This residual classification applies to polymers of ethylene, other than those specifically enumerated in preceding headings of Chapter 39, when imported in their primary forms (e.g., powders, granules, blocks). Importers should carefully review the specific polymer composition and form to ensure accurate classification, as more specific HS codes may exist. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for due diligence to avoid potential duty discrepancies and ensure compliance with each jurisdiction's tariff schedule.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901908075 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3901900000 | — | — | — |
| 3901908000 | — | — | — |
| 3901908053 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3901908067 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901908000 | — | — | — |
| 3901908073 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901908075 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901908085 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3901908091 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3901901000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 3901905501 | 6.5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 3901909000 | 6.5% | Free (18 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 390190 | — | — | — |
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 3901.90?
Imports of Other 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, GSP, and 16 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 390190 cover?
This subheading covers other primary forms of polymers of ethylene, falling under HS Heading 3901, which are not specifically enumerated in subheadings 3901.10 (polyethylene having a specific gravity of less than 0.94) or 3901.20 (polyethylene having a specific gravity of 0.94 or more). According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category includes various ethylene copolymers and other ethylene polymers not otherwise specified, provided they are in their primary forms such as powders, granules, flakes, or lumps. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system align with this broad definition for "other" ethylene polymers.
What falls outside HS 390190?
The following products are excluded from HS 390190: polyethylene in its primary forms with specific gravity less than 0.94 (classified under 3901.10), and polyethylene in its primary forms with specific gravity of 0.94 or more (classified under 3901.20). Additionally, finished articles made from these polymers, such as plastic bags, films, or molded goods, are classified in later chapters of the HTS, typically Chapter 39, but under different headings that denote manufactured products rather than primary forms of polymers. For instance, polyethylene film is usually classified under 3920.99.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 390190?
A common error is misinterpreting the specific gravity requirement for polyethylene, leading to incorrect classification under 3901.10 or 3901.20 when the product should be in 3901.90, or vice versa. Another mistake involves classifying compounded or blended polymers that have undergone significant processing beyond the primary form, which may fall under different headings or subheadings depending on the nature of the modification. 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 390190?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 390190 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications, particularly its chemical composition and physical properties, such as specific gravity. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official nomenclature of the Harmonized System, cross-referencing with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC. If the polymer is an ethylene copolymer or a form of polyethylene not meeting the specific gravity criteria of 3901.10 or 3901.20, and it is in a primary form, then 3901.90 is the appropriate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 390190?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (an "other" ethylene polymer) 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 customs value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 3901.90.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 390190?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 390190, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer preferential duty rates, often Free, for eligible goods from developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically need to provide a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 390190, 'Other polymers of ethylene, in primary forms'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 390190 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate of duty is 6.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA may be eligible for free entry. It is crucial to consult the latest HTSUS or relevant trade agreements for the specific rate applicable to your import.
How is the import duty for HS code 390190 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 390190 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 6.5% and you import 1,000 kilograms of a product classified under 390190 with a declared value of $2,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: 6.5% of $2,000 USD = $130 USD. Always ensure your declared value is accurate and includes all assessable costs as per customs regulations.
What classification criteria distinguish products under HS code 390190 from other ethylene polymers?
HS code 390190, 'Other polymers of ethylene, in primary forms,' is a residual category. It covers ethylene polymers not specifically listed under preceding headings within Chapter 39. This includes polymers like ethylene copolymers (where ethylene is the predominant monomer by weight) that do not fit into categories for polyethylene, ethylene oxides, or ethylene glycols. Classification relies on the chemical composition and physical form (primary forms like powders, granules, or liquids) as defined by the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 390190?
Standard import documentation for HS code 390190 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and import destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For certain chemical products, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or a certificate of analysis might also be requested by customs authorities to verify the product's composition and ensure compliance with chemical regulations.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 390190?
Several trade agreements can impact duty rates for HS code 390190. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) often provides duty-free treatment for qualifying goods. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or zero duties for imports from certain developing countries. The UK's Trade Tariff also lists preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Importers must verify the rules of origin for each specific agreement to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.