2710.20.10.11 - Containing not more than 15 ppm of sulfur

This HTS category, 2710.20.10.11, specifically classifies light fuel oils that meet precise sulfur content requirements. These are distillate and residual fuel oils, characterized by a density of 25 degrees A.P.I. or more and a Saybolt Universal viscosity at 37.8°C of less than 45 seconds. The defining criterion for this sub-classification is that these oils must contain **not more than 15 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur**. This stringent sulfur limit is crucial for environmental compliance and performance in certain specialized applications.

To properly classify fuel oils under this HTS heading, it is essential to differentiate them from their siblings based on sulfur content. Category 2710.20.10.13 covers oils with a higher sulfur content, specifically more than 15 ppm but not exceeding 500 ppm, while 2710.20.10.14 encompasses oils with even greater sulfur concentrations, above 500 ppm. Therefore, the decisive factor for inclusion in 2710.20.10.11 is the exceptionally low sulfur presence, often associated with premium fuels or those destined for sensitive environmental regions or advanced combustion systems.

As this node represents a leaf classification within the HTS database, there are no further subdivisions. The classification is determined solely by the oil's physical properties (API gravity and viscosity) and its very low sulfur content. Importers and exporters should rely on certified laboratory analysis of the sulfur content to ensure accurate classification and avoid discrepancies during customs clearance.