HTS US: 2815.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading encompasses chemical compounds primarily used in industrial processes, including sodium hydroxide (commonly known as caustic soda), potassium hydroxide (caustic potash), and their peroxides. These substances are widely utilized in manufacturing, chemical synthesis, water treatment, and cleaning agents.
The products under this heading are classified by their chemical composition and physical state, such as solid forms or aqueous solutions. Sodium and potassium hydroxides are strong alkalis, often appearing as white solids or as liquid solutions known as soda lye or liquid soda. Peroxides of sodium or potassium are included as well, typically used as bleaching agents or oxidizers.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 28: Inorganic Chemicals; Organic or Inorganic Compounds of Precious Metals
- Heading 2815: Sodium hydroxide (Caustic soda); potassium hydroxide (Caustic potash); peroxides of sodium or potassium
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2815.XX.XX.XX– Final digits denote specific chemical composition and physical form.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit heading 2815 is subdivided into detailed 6-digit and 10-digit classifications based on the compound type and physical state.
| HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2815.11.00.00 | Sodium hydroxide, solid | Caustic soda in solid form, commonly used in soap production, paper manufacturing, and chemical processing. |
| 2815.12.00.00 | Sodium hydroxide in aqueous solution | Also known as soda lye or liquid soda, this solution is widely applied in various industrial cleaning and chemical synthesis processes. |
| 2815.20.00.50 | Potassium hydroxide, solid | Caustic potash in solid form, used in fertilizer production, chemical manufacturing, and as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries. |
| 2815.20.00.90 | Potassium hydroxide, other forms | Includes potassium hydroxide in forms other than solid, excluding aqueous solutions. |
| 2815.30.00.00 | Peroxides of sodium or potassium | Oxidizing agents used in bleaching, disinfection, and chemical synthesis. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure accurate classification, the following products are excluded from this heading:
- Other alkali compounds or hydroxides not specifically sodium or potassium based.
- Mixtures or compounds where sodium or potassium hydroxide are only minor components.
- Other inorganic or organic chemicals outside the scope of hydroxides and peroxides described.
Notes
- Industrial Applications: Sodium and potassium hydroxides are critical raw materials for numerous industries including pulp and paper, textiles, water treatment, and chemical manufacturing.
- Safety and Handling: These substances are highly caustic and require appropriate handling and transport measures to comply with safety regulations.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary depending on the form and purity of the product. Importers should consult current USHTS schedules for precise tariff information.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of solid sodium hydroxide.US HTS Code:
2815.11.00.00(Sodium hydroxide, solid)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Varies by use and origin)
Additional Requirements: Compliance with chemical importation regulations and safety standards.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2816: Inorganic bases other than sodium or potassium hydroxides.
- HTS 2825: Hydrides, nitrides, azides, silicides and borides of metals.
- HTS 2833: Sulfides, polysulfides and thiosulfates.











