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36
Tariff Chapter 36
Prepared explosives, other than propellent powders
What does heading 3602 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 3602 covers prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601. This heading includes dynamite, TNT (trinitrotoluene), RDX (hexogen), emulsion explosives, ammonium nitrate-based explosives (ANFO) and plastic explosives used in mining, construction and military applications. Import of prepared explosives into the EU is strictly regulated by Directive 2014/28/EU and requires a licence from the competent national authority. Customs duty rates are 6.5%. Full documentation on composition, intended use and product certification is required. Transport is subject to ADR regulations for Class 1 dangerous goods. Heading 3602 is part of Chapter 36 (chemical industry products, pharmaceuticals and fertilizers) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 3602 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 3602
This heading includes dynamite, TNT (trinitrotoluene), RDX (hexogen), emulsion explosives, ammonium nitrate-based explosives (ANFO) and plastic explosives used in mining, construction and military applications. Import of prepared explosives into the EU is strictly regulated by Directive 2014/28/EU and requires a licence from the competent national authority. Customs duty rates are 6.5%. Full documentation on composition, intended use and product certification is required. Every import of explosives requires prior authorisation from the national explosives authority. Explosives must carry a CE conformity certificate and meet the requirements of Directive 2014/28/EU. Transport requires specialised containers and labelling in accordance with ADR Class 1. Full documentation of explosives transactions must be maintained in compliance with EU traceability regulations. When importing goods under heading 3602 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 3602 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).
Classification of goods under heading 3602 - key considerations
Heading 3602 covers prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601. Explosives and pyrotechnics subject to strict import controls (Directive 2014/28/EU). Classification depends on chemical composition, form (loose, pressed, charges) and purpose (mining, military, civilian). Pure explosive chemicals (e.g. TNT): 2904. Ammunition: Chapter 93. Fireworks: 3604. Detonators: 3603.
Frequently asked questions
What duty rates apply to prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 under heading 3602?
Customs duty rates for prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 under heading 3602 depend on the specific tariff subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN rates apply to imports from countries without preferential trade agreements. Preferential rates may be available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the GSP scheme, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Current rates for heading 3602 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Standard VAT rate in Poland is 23%.
What documents are required when importing prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 into the EU?
Importing prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 under heading 3602 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN classification and the importer's EORI number. Standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, transport document and product specification. A certificate of origin is needed for preferential rates. Additional regulatory requirements depend on the product type and may include safety, conformity or quality control certificates. Imports are governed by the Union Customs Code (UCC).
What should be considered when classifying prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 under heading 3602?
Classification of goods under heading 3602 requires applying the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature (CN). Key factors include the product's composition, intended use and level of processing. Heading 3602 covers prepared explosives, other than propellent powders of heading 3601 - exact classification to the 6-, 8- or 10-digit subheading depends on the specific characteristics of the goods. In case of doubt, it is recommended to apply for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the competent customs authority. The EBTI database on the European Commission website can help with classifying similar goods. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database.
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