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HS-6 · Subheading

283330

Alums

Heading 2833Sulphates; alums; peroxosulphates (persulphates)

Chapter 28: Inorganic chemicals

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 283330 when importing or exporting alums, such as potassium aluminum sulfate. This compound is often used in water purification, food processing, and as a mordant in dyeing textiles.

Alums are specific types of double sulfates that include aluminum and another metal, typically potassium or ammonium. They differ from other sulfates, like HS-6 283321, which covers basic aluminum sulfate, used primarily for water treatment.

When classifying under this heading, it’s important to note that HS-6 283330 specifically refers to alums, while HS-6 283339 encompasses other aluminum sulfates that do not fit the alum definition. Understanding these distinctions can help in accurate tariff classification.

If you're dealing with products that contain aluminum sulfate but are not classified as alums, you may need to look at other HS codes within this heading to find the right classification.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

alums classification · potassium aluminum sulfate · ammonium aluminum sulfate · water treatment chemicals · food processing ingredients · textile dyeing agents · alum powder shipments · bulk alum imports · alum in cosmetics · alum for pickling · industrial alums · alum crystals

Examples

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

  • Potassium aluminum sulfate used in water treatment plants
  • Ammonium aluminum sulfate for textile dyeing
  • Alum powder for baking and food processing
  • Alum crystals for educational science experiments
  • Alum as a food preservative in pickling
  • Alum in cosmetics for aftershave products
  • Alum used in the production of paper
  • Bulk shipments of alum for industrial applications

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is the HS code for potassium aluminum sulfate?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How do I classify ammonium aluminum sulfate?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Is alum considered a sulfate?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the uses of alums 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 283330 for food-grade alum?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What’s the difference between alums and other sulfates?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to import alum for water treatment?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Are there restrictions on shipping alums?

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 potassium aluminum sulfate for customs

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

What is the difference between alums and basic aluminum sulfate

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

Shipping regulations for alum in bulk

Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.

Uses of alum in food processing and water treatment

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

How to find the correct HS code for ammonium aluminum sulfate

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Best practices for importing alums into the US

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

What is the tariff rate for alums under HS-6 283330

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Guidelines for classifying industrial chemicals like alums

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 types of products fall under HS-6 283330?
HS-6 283330 includes products like potassium aluminum sulfate and ammonium aluminum sulfate, commonly used in water treatment, food processing, and dyeing.
How do I know if my product is classified as an alum?
If your product is a double sulfate containing aluminum and another metal, it likely qualifies as an alum. Check the chemical composition for confirmation.
Are there any specific regulations for importing alums?
Yes, you should check for any import restrictions or safety regulations specific to alums in your country, especially if they are used in food or cosmetics.
Can I use HS-6 283330 for food-grade alum?
Yes, HS-6 283330 can be used for food-grade alum, but ensure it meets all food safety regulations in your importing country.
What’s the difference between HS-6 283330 and HS-6 283321?
HS-6 283330 covers alums specifically, while HS-6 283321 refers to basic aluminum sulfate, which has different applications and properties.
How can I ensure accurate classification for my alum shipments?
Consult with a customs broker or refer to the chemical composition of your product to confirm its classification under HS-6 283330.
What are common uses for alums in industry?
Alums are commonly used in water purification, food processing, textile dyeing, and as a coagulant in various industrial applications.
Is there a specific tariff rate for alums?
Tariff rates for alums can vary by country; check with your local customs authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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