HTS US: 2709.00.XX.XX
Description
This heading covers petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals in their crude state. The classification is primarily based on the oil’s density as measured by the American Petroleum Institute (API) gravity scale and the source of the oil. The products under this heading are unrefined and are typically the raw materials for further petroleum processing.
- Testing under 25 degrees A.P.I.: These are heavier crude oils with a density higher than 25 degrees API, indicating thicker and more viscous oils.
- Testing 25 degrees A.P.I. or more: These are lighter crude oils with a density of 25 degrees API or greater, indicating lighter and less dense oils.
- Condensate derived wholly from natural gas: A specific subcategory of light oils condensed from natural gas, distinct from crude petroleum extracted from reservoirs.
- Other: Covers petroleum oils that do not specifically fall under the above detailed subcategories.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 25-27)
- Chapter 27: Mineral Fuels, Mineral Oils and Products of Their Distillation
- Heading 2709: Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2709.00.XX.XX– The final digits specify the testing API gravity and the nature of the petroleum oil.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 2709 is further broken down into specific 6-digit and 10-digit subcodes that define the physical properties and source of the crude oils.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2709.00 | Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude: | General category for all crude petroleum oils before further distinction. |
2709.00.10.00 |
Testing under 25 degrees A.P.I. | Heavy crude oils with API gravity less than 25, generally thicker and more viscous. |
| 2709.00.20 | Testing 25 degrees A.P.I. or more | Lighter crude oils with API gravity 25 or greater, easier to refine. |
2709.00.20.10 |
Condensate derived wholly from natural gas | Light hydrocarbon liquids condensed from natural gas streams, distinct from reservoir crude oil. |
2709.00.20.90 |
Other | Includes other types of crude petroleum oils testing 25 degrees API or more but not condensates. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Refined petroleum products: Oils that have undergone refining processes are classified under different HTS codes starting with 2710 and onward.
- Coal tar and other bituminous residues: These are classified separately under Chapter 27 but different headings.
- Natural gas in gaseous form: Not included here; classified under different headings in Chapter 27.
Notes
- API Gravity: The American Petroleum Institute gravity is a measure of how heavy or light a petroleum liquid is compared to water. It is a critical factor in classification under this heading.
- Condensate Specifics: Natural gas condensates are increasingly important in trade and are distinguished here due to their unique origin and physical properties.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates can vary depending on the specific subheading and country of origin. Importers should check the current USHTS for applicable rates.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of crude petroleum oil with API gravity above 25 degrees, not derived from natural gas condensate.US HTS Code:
2709.00.20.90(Other crude petroleum oils testing 25 degrees API or more)Unit of Quantity: Metric ton
General Duty Rate: Consult current USHTS
Additional Requirements: Compliance with environmental and safety regulations for importation of crude petroleum oils.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2701: Coal; briquettes, ovoids and similar solid fuels manufactured from coal.
- HTS 2710: Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, other than crude; preparations not elsewhere specified.
- HTS 2707: Oils and other products of the distillation of high temperature coal tar.
