Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
6.5%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (6.5%) of the declared value of the imported goods.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
63%
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 3820.00.00.00 Covers
Prepared antifreezing preparations and deicing fluids, meaning formulated products rather than pure chemicals. This covers engine coolant/antifreeze blends, windshield deicer sprays, aircraft and runway deicing fluids, and similar freeze-protection preparations.
Notes for Importers
Typical imports are glycol-based engine coolants (often ethylene or propylene glycol with corrosion inhibitors and dye) and ready-to-use deicers. The trap is that pure ethylene glycol or propylene glycol with nothing added is a chemical of Chapter 29, not a preparation of 3820, so composition documentation matters. Windshield washer fluids that mainly clean rather than deice may also raise questions against other Chapter 34 or 38 provisions.
Product Category
Chemical Products
This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 3820.00.00.00 |
| Description | Antifreezing preparations and prepared deicing fluids |
| Chapter | 38 - Chemical Products |
| General Duty Rate | 6.5% |
| Rate Type | Ad Valorem |
| Special Rates | Free (A+,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E, IL,JO, KR,MA,OM,P, PA,PE,S,SG) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are classified under 3820.00.00.00?
Formulated antifreeze and deicing products, including automotive engine coolant, windshield deicer, lock deicer, and aircraft or pavement deicing fluids.
Does this code cover pure ethylene glycol?
No. Pure, unformulated ethylene glycol is a separate chemically defined compound classified in Chapter 29. Heading 3820 requires a prepared mixture.
Is premixed 50/50 coolant classified the same as concentrate?
Yes, both concentrate and prediluted antifreeze preparations fall under this heading as long as they are formulated antifreezing preparations.
What is the HTS code 3820.00.00.00 used for?
HTS code 3820.00.00.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Antifreezing preparations and prepared deicing fluids. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 3820.00.00.00?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 3820.00.00.00?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 3820.00.00.00?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 3820.00.00.00 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.