HS Code for Formate salts

Formate salts are classified under HS code 2915.12. These substances are ionic compounds formed by the neutralization of formic acid with a metallic or organic base. Under the Harmonized System, Chapter 29 governs organic chemicals, and Heading 2915 specifically addresses saturated acyclic monocarboxylic acids. The nomenclature provides a dedicated subheading (2915.12) for the salts of formic acid to distinguish them from the acid itself (2915.11) and its esters (2915.13). These salts are widely utilized in industrial applications, such as de-icing agents for runways, drilling fluids in the oil industry, and as buffering agents in the textile and leather sectors. The classification is based on the chemical identity of the formate anion combined with a cation, provided the compound is a separate chemically defined element or compound as per Note 1 to Chapter 29.

Products Included

• Sodium formate
• Calcium formate
• Potassium formate
• Ammonium formate
• Aluminum formate
• Nickel formate

Common Misclassification

A common misclassification occurs with HS code 2915.11 (formic acid) when the distinction between the acid and its salt form is not clearly identified in shipping documents. Another frequent error involves HS code 3820.00 (anti-freezing preparations). While sodium or potassium formate are used for de-icing, they must be classified in 2915.12 if they are pure, chemically defined salts. Only prepared mixtures containing these salts for specific anti-freezing use should be considered for Chapter 38.

FAQ

What is the HS code for sodium formate?

Sodium formate is classified under HS code 2915.12.

Can formate salts be classified in Chapter 31 as fertilizers?

Generally, no. Even if used in agriculture, formate salts do not meet the criteria for Chapter 31 and remain in Chapter 29 as chemically defined organic compounds.