HS Code for Carbon-zinc battery

Carbon-zinc batteries are classified under HS code 8506.80. Heading 8506 covers primary cells and primary batteries, which are defined as non-rechargeable electrochemical power sources. The subheadings within 8506 are organized by the chemical composition of the battery. For example, 8506.10 is for manganese dioxide (alkaline) and 8506.50 is for lithium. Carbon-zinc batteries, which utilize a zinc anode, a manganese dioxide cathode (often mixed with carbon), and an ammonium chloride or zinc chloride electrolyte, do not have a specific named subheading in the international 6-digit HS nomenclature. Consequently, they fall under the residual category 8506.80, which covers "Other primary cells and primary batteries." This classification is critical because it distinguishes these older, general-purpose batteries from more modern alkaline or lithium chemistries, which often have different environmental regulations and duty rates.

Products Included

• Standard carbon-zinc (Leclanché) batteries
• Heavy-duty zinc-chloride batteries
• Non-rechargeable zinc-carbon dry cells
• General-purpose zinc-carbon batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V)

Common Misclassification

Carbon-zinc batteries are frequently misclassified under 8506.10. While both carbon-zinc and alkaline batteries use manganese dioxide, 8506.10 is specifically for alkaline-manganese batteries. Carbon-zinc batteries are considered "other" because their electrolyte and construction differ. Another error is classification under 8507, which is reserved for electric accumulators (rechargeable batteries). Since carbon-zinc batteries are primary cells and cannot be recharged, they must remain in 8506.

FAQ

What is the HS code for a carbon-zinc battery?

The HS code for carbon-zinc batteries is 8506.80, classified as "Other primary cells and primary batteries."

Is a zinc-chloride battery the same as a carbon-zinc battery for HS purposes?

Yes, zinc-chloride batteries are an improved version of the carbon-zinc battery and are also classified under 8506.80 as they are primary cells not specifically named in other subheadings.