HS Code 3901
Polyethylene Polymers in Primary Forms
HS code 3901 covers polymers of ethylene in primary forms, such as granules or pellets, widely used in the production of plastic packaging and containers.
HS Code 3901 — Polyethylene Polymers in Primary Forms
This code covers polyethylene, one of the world's most common plastics, provided it is in a primary form like pellets, granules, or flakes. It is the base material for plastics used in packaging, containers, and pipes. The classification depends on the specific gravity (density) of the polymer.
What's included
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)
- Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers
What's excluded
- Polyethylene waste → use
3915(Waste and scrap follow different a heading even if the material is the same.) - Finished PE bags → use
3923(Heading 3901 is restricted to raw material forms only.)
Common examples
- HDPE resin pellets for injection moulding
- LDPE film grade granules
- Ethylene-propylene copolymer
- Polyethylene powder
Frequently asked questions
What constitutes a 'primary form'?
Primary forms include liquids, pastes, blocks, granules, flakes, and powders.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0% - 6.5%
- Documentation: Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and technical data sheets specifying density are often required by customs.
- Typical shipping mode: FCL
- Top exporters: Saudi Arabia, United States, South Korea
- Top importers: China, Vietnam, Turkey
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Raw material for the most common plastic types; density is the key factor for sub-classification.
Related HS codes
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