HS Code for Refined borax

Refined borax is classified under HS code 2840.19 within the Harmonized System. This classification falls under Chapter 28, which is dedicated to inorganic chemicals and precious metals. Heading 2840 specifically covers borates and peroxoborates (perborates). The classification of disodium tetraborate (borax) is further divided based on its hydration state and level of processing. While anhydrous borax (water-free) is categorized under 2840.11, the refined varieties that contain water of crystallization, such as the decahydrate or pentahydrate forms, are placed under 2840.19. To be classified in Chapter 28, the product must be a separate chemically defined compound. Refined borax is produced through the purification of natural borates, involving dissolution, filtration, and recrystallization. This chemical processing distinguishes it from natural borates that have only been subjected to mechanical cleaning or evaporation, which are excluded from this chapter and classified in Chapter 25.

Products Included

• Sodium tetraborate decahydrate (refined)
• Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate (refined)
• Technical grade refined borax powder
• Crystalline refined borax for industrial use
• Borax decahydrate granules

Common Misclassification

A frequent misclassification occurs between refined borax (2840.19) and natural borates classified under HS code 2528.00. Natural borates are minerals that have not undergone the chemical refining process required for Chapter 28. Additionally, refined borax is often confused with anhydrous borax, which is specifically assigned to HS code 2840.11. The difference is the presence of water molecules in the crystal structure; anhydrous borax has been heat-treated to remove all water. Importers must also distinguish refined borax from boric acid, which is classified under HS code 2810.00, as they are distinct chemical entities with different molecular structures.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Refined borax?

Refined borax, other than the anhydrous form, is classified under HS code 2840.19.

Is natural mineral borax classified under this code?

No, natural mineral borates that have not been chemically refined are classified under HS code 2528.00 in the category of mineral substances.