HTS US: 2505.XX.XXXX
Description
HTS Code 2505 encompasses natural sands of all kinds, whether or not colored, excluding metalbearing sands classified under chapter 26. These sands are primarily used in construction, glass manufacturing, foundry applications, and various industrial processes.
The heading includes various types of sands, with particular attention to silica sands (also known as quartz sands) which are highly valued for their purity and specific chemical composition.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II: Vegetable Products (Chapters 6-14) — Note: While sands are mineral products, chapter 25 falls under Section IV: Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils and their Cleavage Products; Prepared Edible Fats; Animal or Vegetable Waxes (Chapters 15-21) does not include these mineral products; sands are categorized in Section V: Mineral Products (Chapters 25-27).
- Chapter 25: Salt; Sulfur; Earths and Stones; Plastering Materials, Lime and Cement
- Heading 2505: Natural sands of all kinds, whether or not colored, other than metalbearing sands of chapter 26
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2505.XX.XXXX– The final digits specify the exact type and composition of the sand.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 2505 is broken down into specific 6-digit and 10-digit codes based on the type and purity of the sands.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2505.10 | Silica sands and quartz sands | Highly pure sands primarily composed of silica (SiO2), essential for glassmaking and foundry use. |
2505.10.10.00 |
Sand containing by weight 95 percent or more of silica and not more than 0.6 percent of oxide of iron | Premium quality silica sand with very low iron oxide content, used in high-grade industrial applications. |
2505.10.50.00 |
Other silica sands and quartz sands | Sands with silica content less than 95% or higher iron oxide content. |
| 2505.90.00.00 | Other natural sands | Includes all other natural sands not classified as silica sands, such as colored sands or sands with different mineral compositions. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Metalbearing sands are classified under Chapter 26.
- Manufactured or synthetic sands are not covered under this natural sands heading.
- Sand mixtures with other minerals or processed aggregates may fall under other headings depending on composition.
Notes
- Purity and Composition: The classification heavily depends on the silica content and iron oxide percentage, which directly affect the usability of the sand in various industries.
- Industrial Applications: High-purity silica sands are critical in glass industry, foundry casting, hydraulic fracturing (frac sand), and as fillers in plastics and paints.
- Trade Considerations: Importers must ensure accurate classification to apply correct duty rates and comply with import regulations.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of natural silica sand containing 96% silica and 0.4% iron oxide.US HTS Code:
2505.10.10.00(Sand containing by weight 95 percent or more of silica and not more than 0.6 percent of oxide of iron)Unit of Quantity: Metric Ton (MT)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS – rates vary depending on trade agreements and country of origin.
Additional Requirements: May require certification of mineral content for customs clearance.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2506: Quartz (natural) and quartzite, whether or not roughly trimmed or merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape.
- HTS 2601: Iron ores and concentrates, including metalbearing sands.
- HTS 6804: Millstones, grindstones, grinding wheels and the like, which can utilize sand and quartz products.
