Methyl Formate

Methyl formate (HCOOCH3) is a simple ester of formic acid used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and as a fumigant. It falls under HTS 2915.13.5000 as an ester of formic acid, specifically 'other' esters excluding ethyl formate. This classification aligns with Chapter 29 notes for separate chemically defined organic compounds.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳China3.7%+35.0%38.7%
🇲🇽Mexico3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇨🇦Canada3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇩🇪Germany3.7%+10.0%13.7%
🇯🇵Japan3.7%+10.0%13.7%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

2915.11.00.00Higher: 40.5% vs 38.7%

If imported as formic acid before esterification

Formic acid itself classifies under 2915.11; esters are specifically under 2915.13 per subheading structure.

3824.99Lower: 15% vs 38.7%

If containing impurities or mixed with solvents exceeding Chapter 29 limits

Mixtures not meeting 'separate chemically defined' criteria fall to prepared chemical mixtures in Chapter 38.

2909.19Lower: 15.5% vs 38.7%

If for industrial solvent applications with additives

Certain formate esters used primarily as solvents may classify under ether-alcohols if function differs.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Verify purity certificate (≥98%) to confirm classification as chemically defined compound per Chapter 29 note (a)

Include safety data sheets (SDS) documenting fumigant use to avoid reclassification as pesticide under Chapter 38

Label containers clearly as 'flammable liquid' per DOT regulations to prevent customs delays

Related Products under HTS 2915.13.50.00

Isopropyl Formate

Isopropyl formate (HCOOCH(CH3)2) is a formic acid ester serving as a flavoring agent and extraction solvent in food and pharmaceutical industries. Classified under HTS 2915.13.5000 as 'other' esters of formic acid per Chapter 29's organic compound provisions. Excludes ethyl formate specifically named elsewhere.

n-Butyl Formate

n-Butyl formate (HCOOC4H9) functions as a solvent in paints, lacquers, and perfume manufacturing. It qualifies under HTS 2915.13.5000 as an 'other' formic acid ester, consistent with Chapter 29's scope for acyclic monocarboxylic acid derivatives.

Propyl Formate

Propyl formate (HCOOC3H7) is utilized in organic synthesis and as an intermediate for producing other esters. Falls under HTS 2915.13.5000 as 'other' esters of formic acid, meeting Chapter 29 criteria for pure organic compounds.

Benzyl Formate

Benzyl formate (HCOOCH2C6H5) serves in fragrance formulations and pharmaceutical synthesis. Classified under HTS 2915.13.5000 as an 'other' formic acid ester, though aromatic, it follows acyclic monocarboxylic acid ester rules.

Isobutyl Formate

Isobutyl formate (HCOOCH2CH(CH3)2) acts as a volatile solvent in inks and adhesives. HTS 2915.13.5000 covers this as an 'other' formic acid ester per Chapter 29's acyclic saturated monocarboxylic acid derivatives.

Ethyl Formate FCC Grade

FCC-grade ethyl formate meets food chemical codex standards for use as a flavoring and fumigant. While ethyl formate has specific provisions, high-purity other esters fall under HTS 2915.13.5000 as chemically defined compounds.