HS 390920 Melamine resins
Quick Answer: Melamine resins imported under HS 390920 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.50%, and the US at 6.5% (MFN). This code covers primary forms of melamine resins, which are thermosetting polymers produced by the reaction of melamine with formaldehyde. These resins are known for their hardness, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals, making them suitable for applications such as laminates, coatings, adhesives, and molding compounds. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on specific trade agreements, particularly in the US market where preferential rates may apply. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for compliance professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3909200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3909200090 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 3909200010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3909200000 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3909200010 | 6.50 % | — | — |
| 3909200090 | 6.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3909200000 | 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 3909.20?
Imports of Melamine resins 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 390920 cover?
This subheading covers melamine resins, which are thermosetting polymers produced by the reaction of melamine with formaldehyde. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these resins are classified here when they are in primary forms such as powders, granules, flakes, or liquid solutions. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes resins primarily used as binders, adhesives, or in the manufacture of laminates and molding compounds, often characterized by their hardness, heat resistance, and flame-retardant properties.
What falls outside HS 390920?
The following products are excluded from HS 390920: finished articles made from melamine resins, such as tableware, electrical fittings, or decorative laminates, which are classified according to their specific function or material composition under other headings. Also excluded are melamine itself (HS 2933.69) and other amino resins not specifically based on melamine, such as urea-formaldehyde resins (HS 3909.10). Products containing melamine resins as a minor component, where another polymer predominates, would also be classified elsewhere based on the principal constituent.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 390920?
A common error is misclassifying mixtures or formulations where melamine resin is not the primary binding agent or where the product is a finished good. For instance, a laminate flooring panel, which incorporates melamine resin but is primarily a finished flooring product, would not be classified under 390920. Importers may also mistakenly classify melamine molding compounds as finished articles. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and Rule 3 of the Harmonized System is crucial, ensuring classification is based on the essential character of the product in its primary form.
How should importers classify products under HS 390920?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 390920 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the product is a melamine resin in its primary form (e.g., powder, liquid, granules) and not a finished article. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing explanatory notes from the WCO is essential. Obtaining a supplier's declaration detailing the product's chemical composition and intended use can significantly aid in accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 390920?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of melamine resin powder, 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 × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 390920. If the product were sold by weight, a specific duty rate would apply instead of, or in addition to, the ad valorem rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 390920?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 390920, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating melamine resins from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, depending on the specific origin country and the importing jurisdiction, other agreements like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) might offer reduced or zero duties, often requiring a GSP Form A certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 390920 (Melamine resins) into the United States?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 390920 into the United States is 6.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For instance, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) may receive duty-free entry (Free). Importers should always verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current and applicable rates, as well as any specific product exclusions or requirements. The USITC provides this information.
How is the import duty for HS code 390920 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 390920 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of melamine resins is valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 6.5%, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.065 (Duty Rate) = $650 USD. Always ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, which may include adding costs like shipping and insurance.
What documentation is typically required for importing melamine resins (HS 390920) into the European Union?
When importing melamine resins (HS 390920) into the European Union, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must ensure the goods comply with EU chemical regulations, such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals). Depending on the specific application and composition, additional safety data sheets (SDS) or certificates of origin may be necessary. The EU's TARIC database provides specific import requirements and duty rates for each Member State.
Are there specific classification criteria that distinguish melamine resins (390920) from other resins under Chapter 39?
Yes, HS code 390920 specifically covers 'Melamine resins'. The key classification criterion is the chemical composition. Melamine resins are thermosetting polymers made by the reaction of melamine with formaldehyde. They are distinct from other resins in heading 3909, such as urea-formaldehyde resins (390910) or other amino resins (390939). Importers must ensure their product is indeed a melamine-formaldehyde resin and not a co-polymer or a different type of amino resin. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides Explanatory Notes that offer detailed guidance on distinguishing between various resin types.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for melamine resins (HS 390920) into the UK?
The United Kingdom offers preferential duty rates for melamine resins (HS 390920) under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), and South Korea (KR) may provide reduced or zero duty rates. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must provide a valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific trade agreement. The UK Trade Tariff provides detailed information on applicable duty rates and preferential trade arrangements.