HS Code 85.07 – Electric accumulators, including separators therefor; whether or not rectangular (including square)

HS code 8507 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Electric accumulators, including separators therefor; whether or not rectangular (including square). Heading 8507 covers electric accumulators, commonly known as rechargeable batteries, and their separators. This classification is vital for distinguishing these reusable power sources from single-use primary batteries (8506). The scope is comprehensive, encompassing all major rechargeable battery chemistries and forms, including lead-acid, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), and the ubiquitous lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries. It explicitly includes 'separators therefor,' which are critical internal components preventing short circuits within the battery cells. The 'whether or not rectangular (including square)' phrasing clarifies that the physical shape does not alter the classification. This heading is of immense significance for modern industries, especially electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, consumer electronics (smartphones, laptops), and industrial backup power systems. Proper classification is crucial for trade compliance due to strict safety regulations (e.g., for transport of lithium batteries), environmental directives, and varying customs duties. This heading is a cornerstone of Chapter 85, reflecting the increasing global reliance on rechargeable energy storage solutions.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, lithium polymer (Li-Po) batteries, nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, lead-acid automotive batteries, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, gel-cell batteries, AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries, electric vehicle battery packs, laptop battery packs, smartphone batteries, power tool battery packs, grid-scale energy storage batteries, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) batteries, battery separators (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene film), electric bicycle batteries, drone batteries, forklift batteries, portable power station batteries, prismatic cells, cylindrical cells, pouch cells.

The primary misclassification error is confusing rechargeable batteries (8507) with primary, non-rechargeable batteries (8506). Another common mistake is classifying a device that contains a rechargeable battery (e.g., a laptop, 8471; a power tool, 8467; or an electric vehicle, 8703) under 8507, rather than classifying the battery separately or the complete article. Battery chargers are classified under 8504. While 'separators therefor' are included, other generic parts of batteries (e.g., casings, terminals) might fall elsewhere if not specifically identifiable as separators or if they are general electrical components. The key is the 'rechargeable' nature and the specific inclusion of separators.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8507 in UN Comtrade data were China ($82.1B, 52% of world exports), Germany ($8.7B) and South Korea ($7.2B). World exports came to about $157.8B, 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 8507 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($31.6B, 19% of world imports), the United States ($27.2B) and Vietnam (about $5.6B). World imports came to about $165.4B, 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 8507 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 85 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (07) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.