HTS Code: 2803 — Carbon and Carbon Blacks Classification

Heading 2803 pertains to carbon and its various forms, including carbon blacks and all other types of carbon not specifically classified under other headings. This includes materials commonly used in industrial applications such as pigments, reinforcing agents in tires, and other manufacturing uses.

• Carbon black: A fine black powder produced by the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products. It’s primarily used as a pigment and reinforcing phase in rubber products, especially tires.
• Other forms of carbon: This category includes all carbon materials not specifically identified as carbon black, such as certain industrial carbons used in metallurgy, filtration, or chemical processes.

Code Hierarchy

• Section V: Mineral Products (Chapters 25-27)
• Chapter 28: Inorganic Chemicals; Organic or Inorganic Compounds of Precious Metals, of Rare-Earth Metals, of Radioactive Elements or of Isotopes
• Heading 2803: Carbon (carbon blacks and other forms of carbon not elsewhere specified or included)
• US HTS Code (10-digit): 2803.00.00.XX – The final digits distinguish between carbon black and other forms.

Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings

The 4-digit HS heading 2803 is divided into more specific 8- and 10-digit codes that separate carbon black from other forms of carbon.

What is NOT Classified Here?

To avoid confusion, note the following exclusions:

• Graphite: Classified separately under heading 2504.
• Diamond and other natural precious stones: Classified under Chapter 71.
• Activated carbon for water treatment: May fall under related headings depending on preparation but often classified under heading 3802.

Notes

• Industrial Use:
• Carbon black is a critical raw material in tire manufacturing, pigments, and plastics reinforcement.
• Duty Rates: Duty rates vary based on the specific 10-digit code and end-use, with carbon black often subject to different tariffs than other carbon forms.
• Environmental Regulations: Import and handling of carbon black may be subject to environmental and safety regulations due to its particulate nature.

Declaration Example

Product: A shipment of carbon black used for rubber reinforcement from Germany.US HTS Code: 2803.00.00.10 (Carbon black)

Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)

General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Typically ad valorem or specific rates apply)

Additional Requirements: Compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards may be required.

Related HTS Codes

• HTS 2504:
• Natural graphite.
• HTS 3802: Activated carbon and other carbon-based absorbents.
• HTS 2801: Fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine and astatine.
• HTS 2804: Hydrogen, rare gases and other nonmetals.