What is HS code 280511 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
280511
Alkali or alkali-earth metals; sodium
Heading 2805 — Alkali or alkaline-earth metals; rare-earth metals, scandium and yttrium, whether or not intermixed or interalloyed; mercury
Chapter 28: Inorganic chemicals
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 280511 when importing or exporting sodium metal, which is typically shipped in solid form, often as ingots or lumps. For example, if you're trading sodium for use in chemical manufacturing, this is the correct code.
This code specifically covers sodium in its elemental form, distinguishing it from other alkali metals like potassium or lithium, which fall under different HS codes. If you’re dealing with sodium compounds, such as sodium chloride, you would need a different classification.
When considering HS-6 280511, remember that it only applies to pure sodium. If your shipment includes sodium alloys or mixtures with other metals, you may have to look at other subheadings under the same heading.
Sodium is used in various applications, including metal production, chemical synthesis, and even in some pharmaceutical products. Understanding the specific use can help ensure you’re using the right HS code.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
sodium metal imports · sodium exports · HS code for sodium · alkali metals classification · sodium shipments · sodium applications · chemical manufacturing sodium · sodium in metallurgy · sodium hydroxide production · sodium vapor lamps · sodium research · sodium for pharmaceuticals · bulk sodium supply · sodium reducing agent
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Sodium metal ingots for chemical manufacturing
- Sodium lumps used in metallurgy
- Sodium for production of sodium hydroxide
- Sodium used in the preparation of sodium vapor lamps
- Sodium for laboratory research purposes
- Sodium in bulk for industrial applications
- Sodium supplied to pharmaceutical companies
- Sodium as a reducing agent in chemical reactions
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify sodium imports?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is sodium metal covered under HS-6 280511?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the uses of sodium in industry?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS-6 280511 for sodium compounds?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 280511?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I determine the right HS code for sodium?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
Are there different HS codes for sodium alloys?
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 sodium metal for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What does HS-6 280511 include?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Differences between sodium and potassium HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Sodium metal shipment requirements
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
Using sodium in chemical production classification
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Is sodium hydroxide classified under HS-6 280511?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Sodium metal applications in manufacturing
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Best practices for importing sodium metal
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What does HS-6 280511 specifically cover?
- HS-6 280511 covers pure sodium metal, typically in solid form such as ingots or lumps.
- Can I use this code for sodium compounds?
- No, HS-6 280511 is only for pure sodium metal. Sodium compounds like sodium chloride require different codes.
- What are common uses for sodium that require this HS code?
- Common uses include chemical manufacturing, metallurgy, and laboratory research.
- How do I classify sodium alloys?
- Sodium alloys fall under different HS codes and should not be classified under HS-6 280511.
- Are there any special import requirements for sodium?
- Yes, check local regulations for safety and handling requirements, as sodium is reactive.
- What packaging is suitable for shipping sodium?
- Sodium should be packaged in airtight containers to prevent reaction with moisture or air.
- Can I use this code for sodium used in pharmaceuticals?
- Yes, if it is pure sodium metal, it can be classified under HS-6 280511.
- What should I do if my shipment includes sodium and other metals?
- You will need to classify the shipment based on the predominant metal or consult with a customs broker for guidance.
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