HS Heading 3204 : Synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter based on synthetic organic coloring matter; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined
HEADING DEFINITION & DISAMBIGUATION
HS Heading 3204 encompasses synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter based on synthetic organic coloring matter; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined. It classifies 11 6-digit WCO subheadings within Chapter 32 under the Harmonized System [USITC HTS 2026].
Subheadings Under Heading 3204
| HS Code | WCO 6-Digit Subheading Description | Chapter | Operational Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3204.11 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Disperse dyes and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.11 Package → |
| 3204.12 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Acid dyes, whether or not premetallized, and preparations based thereon; mordant dyes and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.12 Package → |
| 3204.13 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Basic dyes and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.13 Package → |
| 3204.14 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Direct dyes and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.14 Package → |
| 3204.15 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Vat dyes (including those usable in that state as pigments) and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.15 Package → |
| 3204.16 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Reactive dyes and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.16 Package → |
| 3204.17 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Pigments and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.17 Package → |
| 3204.18 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Carotenoid coloring matters and preparations based thereon | 32 | View 3204.18 Package → |
| 3204.19 | Synthetic organic coloring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter, Other, including mixtures of coloring matter of two or more of the subheadings 3204.11 to 3204.19 | 32 | View 3204.19 Package → |
| 3204.20 | Synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents | 32 | View 3204.20 Package → |
| 3204.90 | Synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter based on synthetic organic coloring matter; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined, Other | 32 | View 3204.90 Package → |
DISAMBIGUATION & CLASSIFICATION GUIDE
How to Select the Correct Subheading Under Heading 3204
Commercial shipments must be declared under the exact 6-digit WCO subheading that matches physical, chemical, or processing characteristics. Review the subheading descriptions above and verify against binding CBP CROSS rulings prior to entry filing.
Official Primary Sources & Authority References
USITC HTS Heading 3204 ↗
United States International Trade Commission official Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
CBP CROSS Rulings ↗
CBP e-Rulings database for Heading 3204 precedent rulings.
WCO Nomenclature ↗
World Customs Organization Harmonized System 2022 nomenclature standard.
U.S. Census Foreign Trade ↗
U.S. Census Bureau HTS-to-NAICS concordance and Schedule B export database.
Heading 3204 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What commercial articles are grouped under HS Heading 3204?
HS Heading 3204 covers Synthetic organic coloring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter based on synthetic organic coloring matter; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined, grouping 11 6-digit WCO subheadings.
How are 6-digit subheadings structured under Heading 3204?
Subheadings under Heading 3204 range from 3204.11 to 3204.90, classifying goods by processing state, origin, or material composition.
What is the representative US import duty rate for Heading 3204?
US MFN general duty rates for Heading 3204 commodities range from Duty-Free up to representative ad valorem percentages under the 2026 US HTS.
Are Section 301 tariffs applicable to goods under Heading 3204?
Section 301 additional tariffs depend on the specific 8-digit or 10-digit US HTS code and country of origin (e.g. China Lists 1–4A).
What PGA message set flags apply to Heading 3204?
Partner Government Agency flags (FDA, USDA APHIS, EPA) apply depending on the specific commodity sub-classification.
How do I distinguish between subheadings under Heading 3204?
Review WCO subheading terms and candidate descriptions. For example, unroasted vs. roasted or decaffeinated vs. non-decaffeinated.
Can goods under Heading 3204 enter duty-free under USMCA?
Yes. Goods originating in USMCA territories (US, Mexico, Canada) enter duty-free under SPI code P with a valid Certificate of Origin.
What is the Section 321 de minimis limit for Heading 3204?
Eligible import shipments valued at $800 USD or less imported by one person on one day enter duty-free under 19 U.S.C. 1321.
What documents are required for formal customs entry of Heading 3204?
Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, and CBP Form 7501 are mandatory for entries exceeding $2,500 USD.
How can an importer get a binding CBP classification ruling for Heading 3204?
Importers may apply for a binding ruling via CBP National Commodity Specialist Division under 19 CFR Part 177.