HS Code 3403

Lubricating Preparations and Oil Treatments

HS code 3403 covers lubricating preparations and oil treatment chemicals for machinery or textiles that contain less than 70% petroleum oil by weight.

4-digit Section VIFCL Hazmat 9

HS Code 3403 — Lubricating Preparations and Oil Treatments

This code applies to lubricants and preparations used to reduce friction or treat textiles, leather, and furs. Importantly, it only applies to products containing less than 70% petroleum or bituminous mineral oils by weight.

What's included

  • Synthetic motor oils
  • Anti-rust preparations
  • Cutting oils for metalworking
  • Textile lubricants
  • Brake fluids without petroleum

What's excluded

  • Lubricants with >70% petroleum → use 2710 (High-petroleum content oils are classified as mineral fuels/oils.)

Common examples

  • Full synthetic engine oil
  • Silicone based grease
  • Metal cutting fluid concentrate
  • Leather softening oil
  • Chain saw bar lubricant

Frequently asked questions

How is the 70% petroleum threshold verified?

Customs rely on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and technical specifications to determine the precise oil weight ratio.

Trade & shipping notes

  • Typical duty range: 0% - 5%
  • Documentation: Must provide a composition analysis to prove petroleum content is below the 70% limit.
  • Typical shipping mode: FCL
  • Top exporters: Germany, USA, Netherlands, Japan
  • Top importers: China, Russia, India, Brazil

Key takeaway

The chemical composition (petroleum percentage) is the single most important factor for this classification.

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