HS 390450 Vinylidene chloride polymers
Quick Answer: Vinylidene chloride polymers imported under HS 390450 enter the UK at rates ranging from 0.00% to 6.00%, the EU at 0.00% to 6.50%, and the US at 6.5% ad valorem or a specific duty of 2.2¢/kg + 33.5% for most favored nation (MFN) imports, with duty-free access for certain trade agreement partners. This classification specifically covers polymers in primary forms where vinylidene chloride is the sole or principal monomer, excluding copolymers where vinylidene chloride is not the predominant component. Importers should carefully review the specific subheadings within each jurisdiction, as detailed product composition and origin can significantly impact the applicable duty rate. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3904501000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3904509010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3904500000 | — | — | — |
| 3904509000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3904509099 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3904500000 | — | — | — |
| 3904509000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3904509099 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3904501000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3904509010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3904500000 | 6.5% | Free (17 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 3904.50?
Imports of Vinylidene chloride polymers 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 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 390450 cover?
This subheading covers vinylidene chloride polymers, which are synthetic resins derived from the polymerization of vinylidene chloride (1,1-dichloroethene). According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes homopolymers of vinylidene chloride and copolymers where vinylidene chloride is the predominant monomer by weight. For instance, the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this category to encompass primary forms of these polymers, such as powders, granules, and flakes, often used in the production of films, coatings, and synthetic fibers.
What falls outside HS 390450?
The following products are excluded from HS 390450: polymers of vinyl chloride (HS 3904.10), other polymers of vinyl chloride (HS 3904.22), and copolymers of vinyl chloride with other specified monomers where vinylidene chloride is not the predominant component. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resins, which are homopolymers of vinyl chloride, are classified under HS 3904.10. Additionally, finished articles made from vinylidene chloride polymers, such as plastic sheeting or molded components, would be classified in their respective chapters based on the finished product, not the raw polymer material.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 390450?
A common error is misclassifying copolymers where vinylidene chloride is present but not the predominant monomer by weight. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, mixtures or composite goods are classified as if they consisted of the material or component that gives them their essential character. Importers may incorrectly classify a copolymer as vinylidene chloride polymer if another monomer constitutes a larger percentage of the composition, leading to misclassification under a different heading, such as HS 3904.22 for other vinyl chloride copolymers.
How should importers classify products under HS 390450?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 390450 involves a detailed examination of the product's chemical composition and physical form. Importers and customs brokers must consult the product's technical data sheet or Certificate of Analysis to determine the precise monomer composition, specifically identifying the percentage of vinylidene chloride. Reference to the WCO HS Nomenclature and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the EU's TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to confirm that the product meets the definition of vinylidene chloride polymers and is not otherwise excluded.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 390450?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) resin, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $75.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: $2,500 USD × 3.0% = $75.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule under HTS subheading 3904.50.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 390450?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 390450, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may benefit from a duty rate of Free. For goods originating from Canada or Mexico, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required to claim preferential treatment. While not universally applicable to all vinylidene chloride polymers, specific GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) arrangements for certain developing countries might also offer reduced or free entry, often requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 390450, 'Vinylidene chloride polymers'?
The import duty rates for HS code 390450 vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 6.5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, under the US tariff schedule, goods from Australia (AU) may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU TARIC database, or the UK Trade Tariff, to determine the applicable rate for your specific origin country.
How are vinylidene chloride polymers classified under HS code 390450?
HS code 390450 specifically covers 'Vinylidene chloride polymers' in their primary forms. This includes copolymers of vinylidene chloride with other monomers, provided that vinylidene chloride is the predominant monomer by unspecified weight or by number of repeating vinylidene chloride units. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Chapter 39 provide further guidance. Key classification criteria focus on the chemical composition and the presence of vinylidene chloride as the principal component.
What documentation is typically required for importing vinylidene chloride polymers under HS code 390450?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 390450 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical data sheets or a chemical analysis to substantiate the HS classification, especially if requested by customs authorities to verify that the material is indeed a vinylidene chloride polymer or copolymer where vinylidene chloride is predominant.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 390450 when a specific duty rate is applied, like 2.2¢/kg + 33.5% ad valorem?
When a duty rate is a combination of specific and ad valorem duties, both components are calculated and applied. For example, if a shipment of vinylidene chloride polymers weighs 10,000 kg and has a declared value of $50,000 USD, and the duty rate is 2.2¢/kg + 33.5% ad valorem: The specific duty would be 10,000 kg * $0.022/kg = $220. The ad valorem duty would be 33.5% of $50,000 = $16,750. The total duty payable would be $220 + $16,750 = $16,970. This calculation is common in certain tariff schedules, such as parts of the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule for specific goods.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 390450, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 390450. For instance, the US has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like South Korea (KR), Australia (AU), and Chile (CL), which may offer reduced or zero duty rates. The EU has its own network of preferential trade agreements. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid Certificate of Origin or proof of origin as required by the importing country's customs authority. Consulting the official tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC) and the text of the applicable trade agreement is essential.