Chemically Modified HDPE Masterbatch
Chemically modified HDPE masterbatch consists of high-density polyethylene with low levels of antioxidants and UV stabilizers added for color concentration. Per the subheading notes, chemically modified polymers are classified in the 'Other' subheading unless more specifically covered, making this tariff item appropriate.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the masterbatch contains high levels of colourants and functions as a colouring preparation
Colour concentrates with significant pigment content may be classified as colouring matter rather than plastics.
If the chemical modification is minimal and the polymer remains essentially unmodified HDPE
The unmodified polymer classification applies when appendages to the main chain are not significantly changed.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Document the chemical modifiers and their concentrations to support classification under this item
• Note that masterbatches with high pigment loads may be classified elsewhere
• Verify whether the product meets the definition of primary forms under chapter note 6
Related Products under Tariff item 3901.90.00
Antistatic Ethylene Copolymer Pellets
Antistatic ethylene copolymer pellets are a primary-form ethylene polymer containing less than 2% antistatic agents, used as a resin for electronics packaging. The additives do not alter the polymer's classification as an ethylene polymer, and the chemically modified status directs it to the 'Other' tariff item under the ethylene polymers heading.
Blow Molding Grade PE Pellets
Blow molding grade polyethylene pellets are specialty ethylene polymers with an ethylene content exceeding 97%, optimized for producing bottles through blow molding. Because the product is not density-specific and does not meet the criteria for a named subheading, it is classified as 'Other' under the ethylene polymers heading.
Butene-Ethylene Copolymer Pellets (VLDPE)
VLDPE pellets from ethylene-butene copolymerization, with ethylene exceeding 95% by weight, are used for flexible films. These primary form granules enable stretch film production with enhanced puncture resistance.
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Resin
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) resin is an ethylene polymer chemically modified through cross-linking to enhance heat resistance for plumbing pipe applications. The chemical modification directs classification to the 'Other' tariff item under the ethylene polymers heading, as per the subheading notes.
Ethylene-Alpha-Olefin Copolymer Granules
Ethylene-alpha-olefin copolymer granules, with ethylene exceeding 95% by weight, are in primary form for blow molding. These granules provide enhanced strength for bottles and containers, leveraging the alpha-olefin comonomer for improved performance.
Ethylene-Butene Copolymer Granules
Ethylene-butene copolymer granules are a plastomer grade with 97% ethylene content, used for stretch film production. Since the butene comonomer is below 5%, the product does not meet the criteria for a named copolymer subheading and is classified as 'Other' under the ethylene polymers heading.