HS Code for Aqueous ammonia

Aqueous ammonia, also known as ammonium hydroxide, is classified under HS code 2814.20. This classification is governed by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1, which states that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Heading 2814 covers "Ammonia, anhydrous or in aqueous solution." Within this heading, the Harmonized System distinguishes between the gas or liquefied gas form (anhydrous) and the solution in water (aqueous). Aqueous ammonia is an inorganic chemical consisting of ammonia gas (NH3) dissolved in water. It falls under Chapter 28, which encompasses inorganic chemicals and precious metals. The classification remains consistent regardless of the concentration of the ammonia in the water, provided the solution does not contain other added substances that would transform it into a prepared cleaning agent or a complex fertilizer, which would necessitate classification in Chapters 34 or 31, respectively. The chemical purity or industrial grade does not typically change the 2814.20 designation, as long as it remains a simple aqueous solution.

Products Included

• Ammonium hydroxide solutions
• Aqua ammonia
• Ammonia water
• Household ammonia (without added detergents)
• Industrial grade aqueous ammonia
• Reagent grade ammonium hydroxide

Common Misclassification

Aqueous ammonia is frequently misclassified under HS code 2814.10, which is reserved strictly for anhydrous ammonia (ammonia without water). Another common error involves HS code 3102.21, which covers ammonium sulfate used as fertilizer; while aqueous ammonia can be used in agriculture, it remains in Chapter 28 unless it is specifically prepared as a multi-component fertilizer. Additionally, if aqueous ammonia is packaged for retail sale as a disinfectant or cleaning product with added surfactants, it may be misclassified under 3808.94 or 3402.90.

FAQ

What is the HS code for aqueous ammonia?

The HS code for aqueous ammonia (ammonium hydroxide) is 2814.20.

Does the concentration of ammonia affect the HS code?

No, whether the solution is 10% or 35% ammonia, it remains under HS code 2814.20 as long as it is a simple solution in water.