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HS-6 · Subheading

260400

Nickel ores and concentrates

Heading 2604Nickel ores and concentrates

Chapter 26: Ores, slag and ash

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 260400 when importing or exporting nickel ores and concentrates. This code applies to raw nickel materials that are mined and prepared for further processing. For instance, if you are shipping a bulk load of nickel ore from a mine in Canada to a smelter in the United States, this is the correct classification.

Nickel ores and concentrates fall under the broader category of chapter 26, which includes various ores, slag, and ash. While this chapter covers many types of minerals, heading 2604 specifically narrows it down to nickel ores, distinguishing them from other metallic ores like copper or zinc.

This HS-6 line specifically covers ores that contain nickel in significant quantities, typically in the form of laterite or sulfide ores. It does not include processed nickel or alloys, which would fall under different classifications. For example, if you have a shipment of nickel matte, you would need to look at a different HS code.

If you're dealing with nickel concentrates, which are more refined than raw ores but not yet fully processed, this HS-6 still applies. In contrast, if you're handling finished nickel products, such as nickel plates or rods, those would be classified elsewhere.

Keywords & topics

Short phrases that describe this HS-6 subheading when you're searching or filtering schedules.

nickel ores · nickel concentrates · HS code 260400 · bulk nickel shipments · mined nickel materials · nickel ore classification · laterite nickel · sulfide nickel ore · ore processing · mining exports · metallic ores · raw nickel materials · nickel mining · shipping nickel ore · nickel export regulations · mineral concentrates · nickel trade

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Bulk shipment of laterite nickel ore from Indonesia
  • Concentrated nickel ore transported to a processing facility
  • Nickel sulfide ore mined in Australia for export
  • Container of nickel ore samples for assay testing
  • Nickel ore mixed with other minerals for export
  • Raw nickel ore loaded in a freight vessel
  • Nickel concentrate shipped to a refinery
  • Nickel ore delivered to a local smelter

Common questions

How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.

  • What is HS code 260400 used for?
  • How to classify nickel ores for export?
  • Are nickel concentrates covered under HS 260400?
  • What types of nickel ores fall under HS-6 260400?
  • Can I use HS 260400 for processed nickel?
  • What are the requirements for shipping nickel ores?
  • Where do I find information on nickel ore classifications?
  • What is the difference between nickel ore and nickel concentrate?

Related topics

Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.

  • How to classify nickel ores and concentrates for customs
  • Shipping nickel ore from Canada to the USA
  • Understanding HS code 260400 for nickel exports
  • Nickel ore classification for international trade
  • Differences between nickel ore and nickel matte
  • Requirements for importing nickel concentrates
  • Best practices for exporting nickel ores
  • Nickel ore shipping regulations and compliance

Questions & answers

For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.

What types of products are classified under HS-6 260400?
HS-6 260400 includes raw nickel ores and concentrates, specifically laterite and sulfide ores that are mined and prepared for processing.
Can I use HS code 260400 for processed nickel?
No, HS-6 260400 is only for raw nickel ores and concentrates. Processed nickel products would require a different classification.
What is the difference between nickel ore and nickel concentrate?
Nickel ore is the raw material mined from the earth, while nickel concentrate is a more refined product containing higher nickel content, but both are classified under HS-6 260400.
Are there any specific regulations for shipping nickel ores?
Yes, shipping nickel ores may require compliance with specific export regulations, including documentation and safety standards, depending on the destination country.
How can I ensure correct classification of my nickel ore shipment?
Consult with a customs broker or refer to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule to confirm that your product meets the criteria for HS-6 260400.
What are the common countries exporting nickel ores?
Common exporters of nickel ores include Indonesia, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines, known for their significant nickel mining operations.
Do I need to provide assay results for nickel ore shipments?
While not always required, providing assay results can help verify the nickel content and assist in proper classification and customs clearance.
What packaging is required for shipping nickel ores?
Nickel ores are typically shipped in bulk or large containers, ensuring they are secured to prevent spillage during transport.

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