HomeChapter 32Heading 3209

HS Heading 3209 : Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium

HEADING DEFINITION & DISAMBIGUATION

HS Heading 3209 encompasses paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium. It classifies 2 6-digit WCO subheadings within Chapter 32 under the Harmonized System [USITC HTS 2026].

Chapter
Heading
3209
Subheadings
2 HS6
Status
Verified 2026

Subheadings Under Heading 3209

HS Code WCO 6-Digit Subheading Description Chapter Operational Package
3209.10 Based on acrylic or vinyl polymers 32 View 3209.10 Package →
3209.90 Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium, Other 32 View 3209.90 Package →
DISAMBIGUATION & CLASSIFICATION GUIDE

How to Select the Correct Subheading Under Heading 3209

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 3209 ↗

United States International Trade Commission official Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

CBP CROSS Rulings ↗

CBP e-Rulings database for Heading 3209 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 3209 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What commercial articles are grouped under HS Heading 3209?
HS Heading 3209 covers Paints and varnishes (including enamels and lacquers) based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium, grouping 2 6-digit WCO subheadings.
How are 6-digit subheadings structured under Heading 3209?
Subheadings under Heading 3209 range from 3209.11 to 3209.90, classifying goods by processing state, origin, or material composition.
What is the representative US import duty rate for Heading 3209?
US MFN general duty rates for Heading 3209 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 3209?
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 3209?
Partner Government Agency flags (FDA, USDA APHIS, EPA) apply depending on the specific commodity sub-classification.
How do I distinguish between subheadings under Heading 3209?
Review WCO subheading terms and candidate descriptions. For example, unroasted vs. roasted or decaffeinated vs. non-decaffeinated.
Can goods under Heading 3209 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 3209?
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 3209?
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 3209?
Importers may apply for a binding ruling via CBP National Commodity Specialist Division under 19 CFR Part 177.