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GOODS ACROSS BORDERS

HS CHAPTER 36

Explosives; pyrotechnic products; matches; pyrophoric alloys; combustible preparations

CHAPTER

36

Explosives; pyrotechnic products; matches; pyrophoric alloys; combustible preparations

Common items in this chapter

  • Propellant powders (3601)
  • Prepared explosives (3602)
  • Safety fuses, detonators (3603)
  • Fireworks, signal flares (3604)
  • Matches (3605)
  • Ferro-cerium, other pyrophoric alloys (3606)

Classification notes

IATA Dangerous Goods Class 1 substances are largely in this chapter. Civilian import is prohibited or heavily licensed in most destinations. Sporting ammunition primers, military explosives, and industrial blasting agents are all concentrated here.

Frequent misclassification

Ammunition (cartridges, shells): Chapter 93 (9306), not 36. Automotive airbag propellants: Chapter 87 (vehicle parts). Pyrotechnic distress flares for marine use: may qualify for exemption as safety equipment.

Binding tariff ruling database

If you need certainty on classification, request a binding tariff ruling from your destination country's customs authority. The link below leads to the relevant ruling database.

Binding tariff ruling database
RULES5,339COUNTRIES85ITEMS111CARRIERS28GUIDES37UNIQUE SOURCES614LATEST VERIFICATION2026-05-13MethodologyChangelog