HS Code for Crude lead

Crude lead is classified under HS code 7801.99. This classification is part of Chapter 78, which covers lead and articles thereof. Heading 7801 is for unwrought lead, which includes lead in the form of ingots, pigs, blocks, slabs, or similar mass forms. The subheading 7801.99 is a residual category for "other" unwrought lead. To be classified here, the lead must be unwrought but must not meet the definition of "refined lead" provided in the Chapter Notes. Refined lead (7801.10) must contain at least 99.9% lead by weight. Furthermore, 7801.99 is used when the lead is not an alloy where antimony is the principal other element (which would be 7801.91). Crude lead, often called lead bullion or work lead, is the primary product of smelting lead ores. It contains varying amounts of other elements like silver, copper, and bismuth. This material is usually destined for further electrolytic or thermal refining to produce high-purity lead or to recover precious metals. The classification is based on the physical form (unwrought) and the chemical purity (unrefined and not primarily alloyed with antimony).

Products Included

• Lead bullion
• Unrefined unwrought lead
• Work lead (containing silver)
• Unwrought lead blocks (non-refined)

Common Misclassification

Crude lead is frequently misclassified as 7801.10 (refined lead) if the purity level is not tested. It is also confused with 7801.91, which is specifically for lead-antimony alloys (hard lead). Another common error is using 7802.00, which is for lead waste and scrap; crude lead is a primary smelting product, not a waste product from used articles.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Crude lead?

The HS code for crude (unrefined, unwrought) lead is 7801.99.

What is the difference between crude lead and refined lead?

Refined lead (7801.10) must have a purity of at least 99.9% by weight. Crude lead (7801.99) contains higher levels of impurities and is typically an intermediate product of smelting.