US Chemical Suppliers: A Buyer’s Guide
Importing chemicals takes more paperwork than other products: U.S. export controls, authorizations at destination for hazardous substances and, in the EU, REACH registration.
| Industry | Chemicals |
|---|---|
| Main tariff headings (Harmonized System) | Chapter 28, Chapter 29, Chapter 32, Chapter 34, Chapter 38 |
| U.S. agencies involved | Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS); U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) |
| Official sources cited | 5 |
| Last reviewed | 2026-10-07 |
Tariff chapters you should know
- Chapter 28: inorganic chemicals. Chapter 29: organic chemicals.
- Chapter 32: paints, varnishes, inks and pigments.
- Chapter 34: soaps, lubricating preparations and waxes.
- Chapter 38: miscellaneous chemical products.
U.S. export controls
According to the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), an item subject to U.S. export regulations that is not listed in any category of the Commerce Control List is classified as EAR99, and in most cases it does not need a license to be exported; it may need one if it is going to a restricted end user, end use or destination. Ask the manufacturer for the export classification (ECCN or EAR99) of what you are buying.
Some chemicals are controlled: according to BIS, ECCN 1C350 covers precursors and intermediates used in the production of chemical warfare agents, identified by their CAS number.
Authorizations at destination
- Chile: the regional health office (SEREMI de Salud) issues the authorization of use and disposal for imported hazardous chemical substances.
- Costa Rica: the Ministry of Health requires health registration for hazardous chemical products.
- European Union: if you import one tonne or more per year of a substance from outside the EEA, you have the same obligations as a manufacturer and must register it under REACH.
- Ask your country’s authority whether the substance is controlled (for example, as a precursor) before you buy.
How to choose and verify the supplier
- Ask for the safety data sheet in your language, the certificate of analysis for each lot and the export classification (ECCN or EAR99).
- Confirm the transport requirements with your freight forwarder if the product is a dangerous good.
- Check that the company exists: business registration in its state, physical address, website and references from other buyers.
- Check that it does not appear on the U.S. restricted-party lists, and ask for a formal quotation with the Incoterm, lead time and payment terms.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a U.S. license to buy chemicals?
Most EAR99 products do not need one, but some chemicals, such as the precursors of ECCN 1C350, are controlled. The supplier must classify them.
What is REACH?
The EU regulation on chemical substances. Whoever imports one tonne or more per year of a substance into the EU must register it.
Official sources
- BIS: how to classify your item (EAR99 and ECCN)
- BIS: interactive Commerce Control List
- ECHA: REACH for importers
- USITC: Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
- ChileAtiende: imported hazardous chemical substances (in Spanish)
This page is general information to help you get started. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and regulations change. Confirm current requirements with the official sources above or with a licensed customs broker, freight forwarder or trade compliance professional.