HS Code Subheading

Sands; natural, silica and quartz sands, whether or not coloured

2505.10 Subheading
Section V — Mineral products

About HS Code 250510

Silica and quartz sands are indispensable industrial minerals, traded globally for their purity and specific physical properties. They are critical raw materials for glass manufacturing (flat glass, container glass), foundry molds, ceramics, and as proppants in hydraulic fracturing (frac sand) for oil and gas extraction. Countries with high-quality, abundant deposits are major exporters, while industrial nations with robust manufacturing and energy sectors are primary importers. The trade involves bulk shipments, with specifications like grain size distribution, chemical purity, and angularity being crucial for different applications. Demand is heavily influenced by construction activity, the automotive industry, and the energy sector, making it a foundational commodity in modern industry.

Products Under This Code

Foundry sand, glass sand, frac sand, filter sand, industrial silica sand, high-purity quartz sand, white silica sand

Real World Examples

Ottawa Sand (USA), various industrial silica sands from Australia, Belgium, or Norway, high-purity quartz from Brazil

Common Misclassification

This code specifically covers silica and quartz sands; other natural sands fall under 250590, and sands containing metal ores are classified in Chapter 26.

Products Classified Under 2505.10

Industry

This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.

Trade Overview

USA, Australia, Belgium, and Germany are major players in the trade of high-quality silica sands, with global demand driven by construction and industrial sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 250510?

HS code 250510 covers: Sands; natural, silica and quartz sands, whether or not coloured. Silica and quartz sands are indispensable industrial minerals, traded globally for their purity and specific physical properties. They are critical raw materials for glass manufacturing (flat glass, container glass), foundry molds, ceramics, and as proppants in hydraulic fracturing (frac sand) for oil and gas extraction. Countries with high-quality, abundant deposits are major exporters, while industrial nations with robust manufacturing and energy sectors are primary importers. The trade involves bulk shipments, with specifications like grain size distribution, chemical purity, and angularity being crucial for different applications. Demand is heavily influenced by construction activity, the automotive industry, and the energy sector, making it a foundational commodity in modern industry.

What products fall under HS code 250510?

Foundry sand, glass sand, frac sand, filter sand, industrial silica sand, high-purity quartz sand, white silica sand

What are common misclassifications for HS code 250510?

This code specifically covers silica and quartz sands; other natural sands fall under 250590, and sands containing metal ores are classified in Chapter 26.

How is HS code 250510 structured?

HS code 250510 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (05) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.