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
Short phrases that describe this HS-6 subheading when you're searching or filtering schedules.
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
How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.
- What is HS code 280511 used for?
- How to classify sodium imports?
- Is sodium metal covered under HS-6 280511?
- What are the uses of sodium in industry?
- Can I use HS-6 280511 for sodium compounds?
- What products fall under HS-6 280511?
- How do I determine the right HS code for sodium?
- Are there different HS codes for sodium alloys?
Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- How to classify sodium metal for import
- What does HS-6 280511 include?
- Differences between sodium and potassium HS codes
- Sodium metal shipment requirements
- Using sodium in chemical production classification
- Is sodium hydroxide classified under HS-6 280511?
- Sodium metal applications in manufacturing
- Best practices for importing sodium metal
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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