What is HS code 280490 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
280490
Selenium
Heading 2804 — Hydrogen, rare gases and other non-metals
Chapter 28: Inorganic chemicals
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 280490 when importing or exporting selenium, a non-metal element often used in electronics, glassmaking, and photocopiers. For instance, if you're shipping selenium powder in 25 kg bags for use in semiconductor applications, this code applies.
This code specifically covers selenium and its compounds, distinguishing it from HS-6 280490 which relates to tellurium. While tellurium is also used in electronics, selenium has unique applications in photoelectric devices and as a nutritional supplement.
When classifying selenium, note that it can appear in various forms, such as selenium dioxide or selenium sulfide. Understanding the specific form and end-use is crucial for accurate classification under this HS code.
If you're unsure whether your product qualifies under this code, consider the product's composition and intended use. For example, selenium used in agricultural fertilizers would still fall under this HS-6, but the specific application may require additional documentation.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
selenium imports · selenium exports · HS code 280490 · non-metal elements · selenium compounds · photoelectric devices · glassmaking materials · selenium powder · electronic components · nutritional supplements · chemical classification · agricultural fertilizers · industrial applications · photocopier toner · solar cell materials
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Selenium powder in 25 kg bags for electronics manufacturing
- Selenium dioxide used in glass production
- Selenium sulfide for use in anti-dandruff shampoos
- Selenium-based photocopier toner cartridges
- Selenium supplements in capsule form for dietary use
- Selenium compounds used in solar cells
- Selenium used in the production of pigments for plastics
- Selenium-containing alloys for metal fabrication
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify selenium for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is selenium considered a hazardous material?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What forms of selenium are covered under HS-6 280490?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can selenium be used in food products?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the applications of selenium in electronics?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the correct HS code for selenium?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What documentation is needed for importing selenium?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
How to classify selenium powder for export
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What are the uses of selenium in manufacturing
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between selenium and tellurium HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Guidelines for importing selenium compounds
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Selenium applications in agriculture and electronics
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What packaging is required for selenium shipments
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding the classification of selenium products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to handle selenium in international trade
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What products fall under HS code 280490?
- HS code 280490 covers selenium in various forms, including selenium powder, selenium dioxide, and selenium sulfide, used in electronics, glassmaking, and dietary supplements.
- Do I need special permits to import selenium?
- Importing selenium may require specific permits depending on your country's regulations. Always check with your customs authority for compliance.
- Can selenium be used in food products?
- Yes, selenium is used as a dietary supplement in food products, but ensure you comply with food safety regulations in your country.
- What is the difference between selenium and tellurium?
- Selenium and tellurium are both non-metals but have different applications; selenium is often used in electronics and glass, while tellurium is used in metallurgy and as a semiconductor.
- How should selenium be packaged for shipping?
- Selenium should be packaged in airtight containers to prevent oxidation, typically in bags or drums, depending on the quantity.
- What documentation do I need for exporting selenium?
- You will typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary export permits or certificates specific to your product and destination.
- Is selenium considered hazardous for transport?
- Selenium is generally not classified as hazardous, but check local regulations as some forms may have specific handling requirements.
- How can I ensure accurate classification of selenium?
- Provide detailed product descriptions, including chemical composition and intended use, to your customs broker to ensure accurate HS classification.
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