HS Code for Borax decahydrate

Borax decahydrate is classified under HS code 2840.19. This subheading is a residual category for disodium tetraborates that are not anhydrous. Decahydrate refers to the presence of ten molecules of water for every molecule of sodium tetraborate (Na2B4O7·10H2O). In the Harmonized System, refined borates are categorized based on their chemical purity and hydration state. Since 2840.11 is reserved for the anhydrous form, all hydrated versions, including the decahydrate, fall into 2840.19. This product is widely used in the production of detergents, cosmetics, and as a buffering agent in chemical laboratories. It is essential to distinguish these refined chemical products from naturally occurring borates found in mineral form. The classification depends on the product being a chemically defined compound of high purity, typically exceeding 95%.

Products Included

• Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
• Refined borax 10-mol
• Borax crystals (hydrated)
• Technical grade borax decahydrate

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs when borax decahydrate is placed under 2840.11. This is incorrect because 2840.11 is strictly for anhydrous (water-free) borax. Another common error is using HS code 2528.00, which is for natural borates. While borax decahydrate can be found in nature (as the mineral tincal), the refined version used in industry and laboratories is a chemical product of Chapter 28. Additionally, it should not be confused with other borates like sodium metaborate, which falls under 2840.20. Proper documentation of the hydration level (10H2O) is necessary to justify the use of 2840.19.

FAQ

What is the HS code for borax decahydrate?

The HS code for refined borax decahydrate is 2840.19.

Is laundry borax classified under this code?

If the laundry borax is pure refined borax decahydrate, it falls under 2840.19. However, if it is a prepared detergent mixture with other surfactants or builders, it may be classified under 3402.