​The Ultimate Guide To Cosmetic Raw Material HS Codes: Streamline Your Global OEM Operations

Content Menu

● Introduction

● Understanding HS Codes for Cosmetic Raw Materials

>> Structure of HS Codes

● Common HS Codes for Cosmetic Raw Materials

>> Key Subcategories

● Steps to Determine the Correct HS Code

● Why Accurate HS Code Classification Matters for OEM Suppliers

>> Top Markets and Trends

● FAQ: Cosmetic Raw Material HS Codes

● Citations:

Introduction

Navigating international trade regulations is critical for cosmetic raw material manufacturers providing OEM services. A core requirement is accurate cosmetic raw material HS code classification, which ensures seamless customs clearance, tariff compliance, and market access. This guide explains how to classify cosmetic ingredients using HS codes, highlights common classifications, and provides actionable strategies for OEM suppliers.

---

Understanding HS Codes for Cosmetic Raw Materials

HS (Harmonized System) codes are standardized numerical identifiers used globally to classify traded products. For cosmetic raw materials, these codes determine tariffs, regulatory compliance, and shipping documentation.

Structure of HS Codes

HS codes for chemicals and cosmetics typically follow a 6- to 10-digit structure[3]:

- First 6 digits: Universal across countries (e.g., 3304 for skin care preparations).

- Last 2–4 digits: Country-specific subcategories.

For example:

- 33049900: Non-medicated skin care lotions, creams, and sunscreens[4].

- 3305100000: Shampoos and hair preparations[2].

---

Common HS Codes for Cosmetic Raw Materials

Below are key classifications for OEM suppliers[1][5][7]:

Key Subcategories

- 33049900: Covers face creams, body lotions, and SPF products[4].

- 38249090: Includes niche ingredients like *Matrixyl 3000* and *Revidrate*[7].

- 34021900: Organic surface-active agents for cleansers[1].

---

Steps to Determine the Correct HS Code

Follow this framework to classify cosmetic raw materials[3]:

1. Identify the product's primary function (e.g., cleansing, moisturizing).

2. Match to the relevant HS chapter:

- Chapter 33: Perfumery, cosmetics, and toiletries.

- Chapter 34: Soaps and surfactants.

3. Consult national databases (e.g., Seair Exim, Zauba) for subcategory details.

4. Validate with customs brokers to avoid misclassification penalties.

---

Why Accurate HS Code Classification Matters for OEM Suppliers

Misclassifying cosmetic raw material HS codes risks:

- Customs delays: Incorrect codes trigger inspections.

- Overpaying tariffs: Higher-duty categories increase costs.

- Legal penalties: Non-compliance with safety or labeling laws.

Top Markets and Trends

- China, Vietnam, Bangladesh: Leading importers of surfactants (HS 3402) and skin care bases (HS 3304)[1].

- Organic and vegan ingredients: HS 3301 (essential oils) shipments grew by 15% YoY[1].

---

FAQ: Cosmetic Raw Material HS Codes

1. How do I find the HS code for a new cosmetic ingredient?

- Use platforms like Seair Exim or Flexport to search by ingredient name or function[1][6].

2. Are HS codes the same globally?

- The first 6 digits are universal; the last 2–4 vary by country[3].

3. What is the HS code for hyaluronic acid serums?

- Likely 33049900 (skin care preparations) or 38249090 (specialty additives)[5][7].

4. Can one product have multiple HS codes?

- Yes, if it serves multiple functions (e.g., a moisturizer with SPF: 33049900 and 33043000)[8].

5. How often are HS codes updated?

- Major revisions occur every 5 years; monitor platforms like TariffNumber for changes[4].

---

Citations:

[1] https://www.seair.co.in/cosmetic-raw-material-hs-code.aspx

[2] https://www.emotrans-global.com/blog/hs-code-list/

[3] https://www.chemsafetypro.com/Topics/Trade/How_to_Determine_HS_Code_for_Chemicals.html

[4] https://www.tariffnumber.com/2025/33049900

[5] https://www.seair.co.in/cosmetic-ingredients-hs-code.aspx

[6] https://www.flexport.com/data/hs-code/33-essential-oils-and-resinoids-perfumery-cosmetic-or-toilet-preparations/index.html

[7] https://www.zauba.com/import-COSMETIC+RAW+MATERIAL/hs-code-3824-hs-code.html

[8] https://www.cybex.in/hs-codes/beauty-make-up-preparations-for-heading-3304

[9] https://en.56ok.com/hscode/Viet_Nam/33.html

[10] https://www.zauba.com/import-COSMETIC+RAW+MATERIAL/hs-code-3304-hs-code.html

[11] https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/icp84_3.pdf

[12] https://www.foreign-trade.com/reference/hscode.htm?code=33

[13] https://www.volza.com/p/raw-material-for-cosmetics/import/hsn-code-2937/

[14] https://www.tariffnumber.com/2024/33049900

[15] https://hs.e-to-china.com/hs-code-cosmetic-raw-materials-d_3-t_1.html

[16] https://www.zauba.com/import-cosmetic-ingredient/hs-code-13021990-hs-code.html

[17] https://www.volza.com/p/raw-material-for-cosmetics/export/hsn-code-29061100/

[18] https://www.zauba.com/import-cosmetic-ingredient/hs-code-38249090-hs-code.html

[19] https://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/pdf/topics/nomenclature/instruments-and-tools/hs-nomenclature-older-edition/2007/hs-2007/0633_2007e.pdf?la=en

[20] https://www.flexport.com/data/hs-code/3304-beauty-or-makeup-preparations-and-preparations-for-the-care-of-the-skin-other-than-medicaments-including-sunscreen-or-sun-tan-preparations-manicure-or/index.html

---

China, Global, OEM, private label, manufacturers, factory, suppliers, manufacturing company