HS Code 78.06 – Lead; articles n.e.c. in chapter 78

HS code 7806 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Lead; articles n.e.c. in chapter 78. Heading 7806 is the 'basket' or residual classification for all other articles of lead not specified elsewhere in Chapter 78. This crucial heading covers a vast array of finished or semi-finished products made predominantly of lead that are not unwrought lead (7801), waste and scrap (7802), or flat rolled products/powders/flakes (7804). Its scope includes items such as lead pipes, tubes, fittings, specific castings, lead weights, seals, and other fabricated lead components. This classification is vital for trade compliance as it captures the diverse range of lead applications not explicitly covered by more specific headings, ensuring proper tariff application and regulatory adherence. Historically, lead has been fashioned into numerous articles due to its malleability, density, and corrosion resistance, from plumbing components to specialized industrial parts. This heading completes Chapter 78 by providing a catch-all for any article where lead is the primary constituent, reflecting the broad utility of the metal in various industries.

Lead pipes, lead tubes, lead pipe fittings, lead counterweights, lead seals, finished lead anodes, lead shielding blocks (finished articles), lead ballast, lead washers, finished lead shot, lead castings (specific articles), lead components for industrial machinery, lead radiation bricks, lead soundproofing panels (finished articles), lead fishing weights, lead gaskets, unloaded lead bullets, lead anchors, lead flashing (fabricated), lead cames for stained glass, lead weights for diving, lead ingots (specifically shaped for an end-use, not unwrought), lead lining for chemical tanks (fabricated), lead wire (fabricated, not unwrought), lead sleeves for cables, lead components for automotive industry.

The most frequent misclassification error for 7806 is incorrectly placing articles here that actually belong to more specific headings within Chapter 78, such as lead plates or sheets (7804). Conversely, complex articles containing lead might be misclassified under this heading when lead is not the predominant material by weight or value, or when the article is a specific machine or appliance. For example, a complete lead-acid battery belongs under 8507, not 7806. Careful analysis of the primary material and the specific function of the article is crucial to avoid misclassification.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7806 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($41M, 13% of world exports), Angola ($40M) and the United States ($26M). World exports came to about $323M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7806 in UN Comtrade data were Italy ($23M, 7.3% of world imports), the United States ($20M) and the Netherlands ($19M). World imports came to about $308M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7806 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 78 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (78) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (06) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.