Every pesticide product entering US commerce must be registered with the EPA under FIFRA. Importers must present evidence of a valid EPA registration number for the specific formulation, and CBP coordinates with EPA to verify admissibility. Unregistered pesticides are subject to refusal of entry or detention.

For certain insecticide groups specified in the Chapter 38 subheading notes, the tariff schedule distinguishes between packs not exceeding 300 g (380861), packs from 300 g to 7.5 kg (380862), and larger or other forms (380869). For insecticides outside those note groups, the general insecticide subheading (380891) applies regardless of pack size. Confirming which subheading note applies to the active ingredient is the first classification step.

Disinfectants packaged for retail sale or as preparations are classified under 3808 (specifically 380894 for those outside the subheading note 1 substances). However, disinfectants that are pharmaceutical preparations or that function primarily as antiseptics for medical use may fall under Chapter 30. The intended use and formulation determine the correct heading.