HS Code for Car battery

The classification of car batteries under HS code 850710 is strictly reserved for electric accumulators of the lead-acid type that are specifically designed for starting piston engines. These are technically known as SLI batteries, which stands for Starting, Lighting, and Ignition. The primary characteristic that distinguishes these batteries from other lead-acid accumulators is their ability to deliver a high cold cranking amperage (CCA) in a short burst to turn over an internal combustion engine. This is achieved through a specific internal plate design that maximizes surface area. Under the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GIR), specifically GIR 1, the classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since 850710 explicitly mentions \"of a kind used for starting piston engines,\" it takes precedence over more general codes. It is important to note that this code applies regardless of whether the battery is for a passenger car, a heavy truck, or a motorcycle, provided it is a lead-acid starter battery. Even modern variations like Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) fall here if they serve the starting function. These batteries are typically composed of lead plates submerged in an electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid, housed in a durable plastic casing. Because they contain hazardous materials and heavy metals, they are subject to specific environmental and safety regulations during transport, but their HS classification remains focused on their functional application in automotive engineering. The distinction between a starter battery and a deep-cycle battery is critical, as the latter is designed for sustained power delivery and is classified under a different subheading, even if the chemistry is identical.

Products Included

• 12V lead-acid starter batteries
• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries for engine starting
• EFB (Enhanced Flooded Batteries) for start-stop systems
• 6V and 24V lead-acid batteries for starting piston engines
• Maintenance-free lead-acid car batteries

Common Misclassification

Car batteries are frequently confused with HS code 850720, which covers \"other\" lead-acid accumulators. The distinction lies in the application; 850720 is for deep-cycle batteries used in golf carts or solar storage. Another common error is using 850760 for lithium-ion car batteries. While lithium batteries are used in modern vehicles, 850710 is exclusively for lead-acid types. Finally, non-rechargeable batteries are classified under heading 8506 and should never be confused with rechargeable accumulators.

FAQ

What is the HS code for car battery?

The HS code for a standard lead-acid car battery used for starting an engine is 850710.

Are lithium-ion car batteries classified under 850710?

No, lithium-ion batteries, even if used for starting or propulsion in electric vehicles, are classified under HS code 850760.