HS Code for Bituminous shale

Bituminous shale is classified under HS code 2714.10, which falls within Chapter 27 of the Harmonized System, covering mineral fuels, mineral oils, and products of their distillation. Heading 2714 specifically includes bitumen and asphalt, natural; bituminous or oil shale and tar sands; asphaltites and asphaltic rocks. Subheading 2714.10 is the specific designation for bituminous or oil shale and tar sands. These are naturally occurring sedimentary rocks containing organic matter (kerogen) from which liquid hydrocarbons can be extracted, or sands naturally saturated with heavy crude oil. Unlike refined bitumen, which is a byproduct of petroleum distillation, bituminous shale is a raw mineral resource. The classification is determined by the geological nature of the material and its status as a primary energy source or mineral raw material. It is often traded for further processing into synthetic crude oil or for direct combustion in specialized power plants.

Products Included

• Oil shale
• Tar sands
• Kerogen-bearing sedimentary rock
• Natural bitumen-impregnated rock
• Asphaltic shale

Common Misclassification

Bituminous shale is often confused with petroleum bitumen (HS code 2713.20). However, 2713.20 refers to the refined byproduct of oil processing, whereas 2714.10 refers to the naturally occurring mineral. It may also be confused with natural asphalt or bitumen under 2714.90, but 2714.10 is the specific code for the shale and sand forms of these minerals.

FAQ

What is the HS code for bituminous shale?

The HS code for bituminous or oil shale and tar sands is 2714.10.

Are tar sands included in this code?

Yes, tar sands are explicitly grouped with bituminous shale under the HS code 2714.10.