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HS code for paints

Products described as paints are usually classified under heading 3208 / 3209 of the Harmonized System. Pick the 6-digit subheading that matches your product, then add the importing country's national digits.

Heading 3208Paints, varnishes; (enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium
Heading 3209Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium

Usual subheading

Which one applies depends on the material, the packing or who the product is for: read each text.

Other subheadings of heading 3208 / 3209

Click a code to copy it.

How to confirm the code

  1. Read the heading and subheading texts above and pick the one that describes what your product is made of and what it does.
  2. Check the section and chapter notes of chapter 32, which can include or exclude products.
  3. Add the national digits from the importing country's tariff (8 to 10 digits) and confirm with a customs broker, or ask customs for a binding ruling if the duty matters.

Search the HS code lookup →Chapter 32

Source: HS 2022 nomenclature, 6-digit level (UN Comtrade). Descriptions are in English, as in the official nomenclature. Digits after the 6th differ by country.

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Guides on this topic

How to Find the Right HS Code: GRI 1-6, Rulings and HS 2028How to find an HS code: the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI 1-6), GRI 3(b) sets, parts and accessories, national codes, binding rulings and…Binding tariff rulings: EU BTI, UK ATaR, US CBP, Canada, JapanHow to get a legally binding HS code decision before you ship: EU BTI (3 years, free), UK Advance Tariff Rulings (30 to 120 days), US CBP rulings…

Common questions

What is the HS code for paints?

Products described as paints are usually classified under HS heading 3208 / 3209, subheading 3208.90 / 3209.10. Confirm the full national code in the importing country's tariff.

Is the HS code the same in every country?

The first 6 digits are the same in every country that uses HS 2022, and national codes are built on them: the EU's CN, the US HTS, India's ITC-HS and HSN codes and Brazil's NCM all start with these digits. Each country adds its own digits (usually to 8 or 10) and sets the duty rate, so check the destination country's tariff.

What if my product is different?

Materials, function and how the product is put up can change the heading. Search your own description in the HS code lookup, read the chapter notes, and ask a customs broker or the customs authority for a ruling when in doubt.

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