HS Code for NiMH battery

Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries fall under HS code 850750. This classification is determined by the chemical composition of the accumulator's electrodes. NiMH batteries utilize a hydrogen-absorbing alloy for the negative electrode and nickel oxyhydroxide for the positive electrode. As rechargeable energy storage devices, they are grouped under heading 8507. The specific subheading 850750 was established to distinguish these from older technologies like lead-acid or nickel-cadmium. Classification remains consistent whether the batteries are imported for consumer electronics, industrial applications, or hybrid vehicle systems, as long as they are presented as discrete accumulators. These batteries are often preferred over NiCd due to their higher energy density and lower environmental impact, as they do not contain toxic cadmium. When classifying these items, it is important to verify that they are indeed accumulators (rechargeable) rather than primary cells. The HS code 850750 covers the cells themselves and assemblies of cells, including those with built-in protection circuits or monitoring electronics, provided the assembly functions as a battery. The electrolyte, typically potassium hydroxide, and the specific metal hydride lattice are the defining characteristics that customs officials look for during chemical analysis or documentation review.

Products Included

• AA and AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries
• NiMH battery modules for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)
• High-capacity NiMH packs for cordless phones
• Industrial NiMH storage systems
• Nickel-metal hydride button cells

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification for NiMH batteries is HS code 850730 (Nickel-cadmium) due to the similar naming convention. However, the absence of cadmium requires the use of 850750. They are also sometimes incorrectly placed under 850780, which is a residual category for "other" accumulators. Since NiMH has its own specific subheading (850750), using the "other" category is a violation of GRI 1. Finally, they should never be classified under 8506, which is for non-rechargeable batteries.

FAQ

What is the HS code for NiMH battery?

The HS code for NiMH batteries is 850750, specifically designated for nickel-metal hydride electric accumulators.

Can NiMH batteries be classified as lithium batteries?

No, lithium-ion batteries have a distinct chemistry and are classified under HS code 850760, separate from nickel-based systems.