About HS Code 250840
This HS code serves as a residual category for clays not elsewhere specified in heading 2508, whether or not calcined, excluding expanded clays. It encompasses a broad spectrum of industrial clays, each with unique mineralogical and physical properties, finding diverse applications across various sectors. These clays might be used as absorbents (e.g., fuller's earth), fillers, catalysts, binders, or in specialized construction materials. Their utility depends heavily on characteristics like plasticity, absorbency, cation exchange capacity, and chemical composition. Both importers and exporters are highly diverse, reflecting the wide-ranging industrial uses of these specialized clays. Trade often involves specific grades tailored for niche applications, requiring careful specification to ensure the correct material is sourced.
Products Under This Code
Fuller's earth, attapulgite clay, sepiolite clay, palygorskite clay, common clay, brick clay, drilling clay (non-bentonite), bleaching clay.
Real World Examples
Oil-Dri Corporation (absorbent clays), EP Minerals (diatomaceous earth), Tolsa (sepiolite/palygorskite), Active Minerals International (attapulgite), Clariant (specialty clays).
Common Misclassification
As a residual category, misclassification is common; specific clays like bentonite (250810) or kaolin (250700) are sometimes incorrectly placed here, or conversely, general clays are mistakenly classified under more specific headings.
Products Classified Under 2508.40
Industry
This code belongs to the Minerals & Fuels industry.
Trade Overview
USA, China, and Germany are major importers, with the USA, China, and Spain being top exporters of these miscellaneous clays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 250840?
HS code 250840 covers: Clays (excluding expanded clays of heading no. 6806); n.e.c. in heading no. 2508, whether or not calcined. This HS code serves as a residual category for clays not elsewhere specified in heading 2508, whether or not calcined, excluding expanded clays. It encompasses a broad spectrum of industrial clays, each with unique mineralogical and physical properties, finding diverse applications across various sectors. These clays might be used as absorbents (e.g., fuller's earth), fillers, catalysts, binders, or in specialized construction materials. Their utility depends heavily on characteristics like plasticity, absorbency, cation exchange capacity, and chemical composition. Both importers and exporters are highly diverse, reflecting the wide-ranging industrial uses of these specialized clays. Trade often involves specific grades tailored for niche applications, requiring careful specification to ensure the correct material is sourced.
What products fall under HS code 250840?
Fuller's earth, attapulgite clay, sepiolite clay, palygorskite clay, common clay, brick clay, drilling clay (non-bentonite), bleaching clay.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 250840?
As a residual category, misclassification is common; specific clays like bentonite (250810) or kaolin (250700) are sometimes incorrectly placed here, or conversely, general clays are mistakenly classified under more specific headings.
How is HS code 250840 structured?
HS code 250840 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (25) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (08) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (40) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.