3819.00.00 - Hydraulic brake fluids and other prepared liquids for hydraulic transmission, not containing or containing less than 70 percent by weight of petroleum oils or oils obtained from bituminous minerals

This HTS category, 3819.00.00, encompasses a range of specialized prepared liquids designed for hydraulic transmission systems, with a specific focus on their oil content. Primarily, it covers hydraulic brake fluids, crucial for the safe operation of vehicles. Beyond brake fluids, this heading also includes other prepared liquids intended for use in hydraulic systems, such as those found in heavy machinery, industrial equipment, and agricultural implements, provided they meet the specified oil content criteria.

The defining characteristic distinguishing this category from its siblings under Chapter 38 lies in the composition of the prepared liquid. While many products in Chapter 38 are diverse chemical mixtures for various applications, 3819.00.00 specifically targets liquids with hydraulic transmission functions and a petroleum oil or oil derived from bituminous minerals content of less than 70 percent by weight. This excludes fluids that are predominantly oil-based, which would likely fall under different chapters, such as Chapter 27 for mineral oils and products derived therefrom.

To facilitate more precise classification, this heading is further subdivided. The subcategory 3819.00.00.10 specifically identifies hydraulic brake fluids. The residual subcategory, 3819.00.00.90, captures other prepared liquids for hydraulic transmission that do not qualify as brake fluids but still meet the general heading criteria regarding composition and application. This differentiation allows for accurate tracking and tariff application based on the specific type and intended use of the hydraulic fluid.