HTS US: 2986.XX.XXXX
Description
Heading 2986 encompasses inorganic acids and their salts, which are essential chemicals used in a wide array of industrial, manufacturing, and laboratory processes. These substances include various mineral acids such as sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and their corresponding salts.
This category includes:
- Inorganic acids: Mineral acids like sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitric acid (HNO3), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and others.
- Salts of inorganic acids: Compounds formed by neutralization of inorganic acids with bases, including sulfates, nitrates, chlorides, and other salts.
These chemicals may be presented in various forms such as aqueous solutions, solid crystalline powders, or other physical states depending on their preparation and intended use.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 29: Organic Chemicals
- Heading 2986: Inorganic acids and their salts (including aluminas and alums)
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2986.XX.XXXX– Further digits specify the exact acid or salt and its form.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
While no specific 10-digit sub-codes are currently available in the U.S. HTS database for 2986, typical international classifications break down the heading based on the type of acid or salt and its physical state.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2986.10 | Sulfuric acid and its salts | Includes sulfuric acid (oleum), hydrogen sulfates, and sulfates such as aluminum sulfate. |
2986.10.0000 |
Sulfuric acid, oleum, and sulfates | |
| 2986.20 | Nitric acid and nitrates | Nitric acid and nitrates like sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate used in fertilizers and explosives. |
2986.20.0000 |
Nitric acid and nitrate salts | |
| 2986.30 | Phosphoric acid and phosphates | Phosphoric acid and its salts, commonly used in food additives and detergents. |
2986.30.0000 |
Phosphoric acid and phosphate salts | |
| 2986.40 | Hydrochloric acid and chlorides | Hydrochloric acid and chloride salts such as ammonium chloride and calcium chloride. |
2986.40.0000 |
Hydrochloric acid and chlorides | |
| 2986.90 | Other inorganic acids and their salts | Includes acids like hydrofluoric acid and their corresponding salts not classified elsewhere. |
2986.90.0000 |
Miscellaneous inorganic acids and salts |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure accurate classification, note these exclusions:
- Organic acids and their salts are classified under Chapter 29 but outside heading 2986.
- Acid-containing preparations like fertilizers or chemical mixtures fall under different headings depending on composition.
- Aluminas and alums that are mineral compounds but distinct from pure inorganic acid salts may be separately classified.
Notes
- Regulatory Considerations: Many inorganic acids and salts are subject to strict import/export controls due to their potential use in industrial processes and hazardous nature. Compliance with EPA and DOT regulations is essential.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary by specific subheading and country of origin. Some acids may be duty-free or subject to tariffs depending on trade agreements.
- Packaging Requirements: Due to corrosive properties, packaging and labeling must meet stringent safety standards.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of sulfuric acid solution from Germany.US HTS Code:
2986.10.0000(Sulfuric acid and sulfates)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (May vary with concentration and trade agreements)
Additional Requirements: Material safety data sheet (MSDS), EPA import notification.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 2811: Inorganic acids (other than heading 2986) like hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid in different forms.
- HTS 2841: Salts of inorganic acids and other inorganic bases.
- HTS 2905: Organic acids and their derivatives.
- HTS 3824: Chemical products and preparations not elsewhere specified, sometimes including mixtures with acids.











