Introduction to Butyric Acid and its HS Code

Butyric acid, an organic acid and fatty acid, plays a significant role in various industries, including food production as a food additive. For businesses involved in importing or exporting this compound, understanding its Harmonized System (HS) code is crucial. This article will delve into the HS code for butyric acids, its importance in international trade, and how digital logistics platforms like FreightAmigo can assist in navigating the complexities of shipping such chemicals.

Recent data from the World Customs Organization shows that the global trade of organic acids, including butyric acid, has increased by 15% over the past year. This growth highlights the importance of accurate HS code classification for smooth international trade operations.

What is Butyric Acid?

Butyric acid, also known as butanoic acid, is a short-chain fatty acid with the chemical formula CH₃CH₂CH₂COOH. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic rancid smell. As an organic acid, it belongs to the carboxylic acid family and is naturally found in butter, parmesan cheese, and as a product of anaerobic fermentation.

Key characteristics of Butyric Acid:

• Molecular formula: C₄H₈O₂
• Molar mass: 88.11 g/mol
• Appearance: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Rancid, butter-like
• Melting point: −7.9 °C (17.8 °F)
• Boiling point: 163.5 °C (326.3 °F)

In the food industry, butyric acid serves as a food additive, imparting a butter-like flavor to products. It’s also used in the production of various esters for flavors and fragrances. Beyond food applications, butyric acid finds use in pharmaceuticals, animal feed, and as a precursor in the production of cellulose acetate butyrate plastics.

Understanding HS Codes

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for the classification of goods. It serves as a universal economic language and code for tradable goods, used by more than 200 countries for customs tariffs and trade statistics.

Structure of HS Codes:

• First 2 digits: Chapter
• First 4 digits: Heading
• First 6 digits: Subheading

The first six digits are used internationally, while countries may add additional digits for further classification at the national level.

HS Code for Butyric Acids

Butyric acid falls under Chapter 29 of the HS Code, which covers “Organic chemicals”. The specific HS code for Butyric acids is:

2915.60 – Butanoic acids, pentanoic acids, their salts and esters

This subheading includes butyric acid (butanoic acid) along with other similar organic acids. It’s important to note that this classification may vary slightly depending on the specific form or derivative of butyric acid being traded.

Further classification:

• 2915.60.10 – Butanoic acid (butyric acid) and its salts
• 2915.60.20 – Esters of butanoic acid

These more detailed classifications may be used by some countries for more specific tariff applications or trade statistics.

Importance of Correct HS Code Classification

Accurate HS code classification is crucial for several reasons:

1. Customs duties and taxes: The HS code determines the applicable customs duties and taxes for imported goods.
2. Trade statistics: Governments and international organizations use HS codes to compile trade statistics.
3. Regulatory compliance: Certain goods may be subject to specific regulations or restrictions based on their HS code.
4. Trade agreements: Preferential tariff treatments under trade agreements often depend on the HS classification of goods.
5. Documentation: Correct HS codes are essential for accurate completion of customs declarations and other trade documents.

Misclassification can lead to delays in customs clearance, unexpected costs, or even legal issues. Therefore, it’s crucial for businesses dealing with butyric acid or other organic acids to ensure they are using the correct HS code.

Challenges in Classifying Organic Acids

While the HS code for butyric acid seems straightforward, classifying organic acids can sometimes be challenging due to several factors:

• Chemical structure variations: Slight differences in chemical structure can lead to different classifications.
• Purity levels: The purity of the acid can affect its classification.
• Intended use: In some cases, the intended use of the chemical may influence its classification.
• Mixtures: When organic acids are part of mixtures or preparations, classification can become more complex.
• National variations: While the first six digits of the HS code are internationally standardized, countries may have additional digits or interpretations.

Given these challenges, it’s often beneficial for businesses to consult with customs experts or use digital tools to ensure accurate classification.

How FreightAmigo Can Help with Butyric Acid Shipping

As a digital logistics platform, FreightAmigo offers several features that can assist businesses in shipping butyric acid and other organic chemicals:

1. HS Code Verification: Our digital platform can help verify the correct HS code for butyric acid and other organic compounds, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations.
2. Customs Documentation: FreightAmigo’s system can automatically generate the necessary customs documentation with the correct HS codes, reducing the risk of errors and delays.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Our platform keeps track of the latest regulations related to shipping organic acids, helping businesses stay compliant with international and local laws.
4. Rate Comparison: FreightAmigo allows users to compare rates from multiple carriers for shipping chemicals like butyric acid, helping businesses find the most cost-effective shipping solution.
5. Specialized Carrier Selection: We can help identify carriers with experience in handling organic acids and other chemicals, ensuring proper care during transportation.
6. Real-time Tracking: Our platform provides real-time tracking for shipments, which is particularly important for time-sensitive or temperature-controlled chemical shipments.
7. Expert Support: FreightAmigo’s team of logistics experts can provide guidance on the complexities of shipping organic acids, including butyric acid.

By leveraging FreightAmigo’s digital logistics platform, businesses can streamline their shipping processes for butyric acid and other organic compounds, ensuring compliance, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency.

Best Practices for Shipping Butyric Acid

When shipping butyric acid, it’s important to follow these best practices:

1. Proper Packaging: Ensure the acid is packaged in appropriate containers that can withstand its corrosive nature.
2. Labeling: All packages containing butyric acid should be clearly labeled with the appropriate hazard symbols and UN number (UN 2820 for butyric acid).
3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Always include an up-to-date SDS with the shipment.
4. Temperature Control: Depending on the purity and intended use, temperature control during shipping may be necessary.
5. Carrier Selection: Choose carriers with experience in handling hazardous materials.
6. Insurance: Consider additional insurance coverage for high-value or high-risk shipments.
7. Compliance: Ensure all international and local regulations for shipping hazardous materials are followed.

FreightAmigo’s digital platform can assist with many of these aspects, from selecting appropriate carriers to ensuring proper documentation.

Future Trends in Organic Acid Trade

The global trade in organic acids, including butyric acid, is evolving. Some key trends to watch include:

• Increased demand: Growing use in food additives, animal feed, and pharmaceuticals is driving up demand for butyric acid.
• Sustainability focus: There’s a growing interest in sustainable production methods for organic acids.
• Regulatory changes: Ongoing updates to international chemical regulations may affect the trade and transport of organic acids.
• Digital transformation: The adoption of digital platforms like FreightAmigo is streamlining the logistics of chemical shipping.

Staying informed about these trends and leveraging digital tools can help businesses navigate the changing landscape of organic acid trade.

Conclusion

Understanding the HS code for butyric acid (2915.60) is crucial for businesses involved in its trade. Proper classification ensures compliance with international regulations, accurate duty calculations, and smooth customs clearance. However, the complexities of chemical classification and shipping can be challenging.

This is where digital logistics platforms like FreightAmigo can provide significant value. By offering tools for HS code verification, customs documentation, carrier selection, and real-time tracking, FreightAmigo helps businesses navigate the intricacies of shipping organic acids like butyric acid. As the global trade in organic acids continues to grow, leveraging such digital solutions becomes increasingly important for efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.

Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or new to shipping organic acids, consider how a digital logistics platform can streamline your operations and help you stay ahead in the evolving world of international trade.

References

1. World Customs Organization, “HS Nomenclature 2022 Edition”, https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/nomenclature/instrument-and-tools/hs-nomenclature-2022-edition.aspx

2. U.S. International Trade Commission, “Harmonized Tariff Schedule (2022 Basic Edition)”, https://hts.usitc.gov/

3. European Commission, “TARIC Consultation”, https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp

4. United Nations, “UN Comtrade Database”, https://comtrade.un.org/