HS Code for Refined lead

Refined lead is classified under HS code 7801.10. Chapter 78 of the Harmonized System covers lead and articles made from it. Heading 7801 is dedicated to unwrought lead, which refers to lead in primary forms such as ingots, blocks, or pigs that have not yet been worked into semi-finished or finished products. The subheading 7801.10 is specific to "refined lead." According to the Chapter 78 Note 1(a), refined lead is defined as metal containing at least 99.9% by weight of lead, or metal containing at least 99% by weight of lead provided that the content by weight of any other element does not exceed specific limits (e.g., silver less than 0.02%, arsenic less than 0.005%, and copper less than 0.08%). This classification is essential for distinguishing high-purity lead from lead alloys or secondary lead that contains significant impurities. The refining process usually involves electrolytic refining or pyrometallurgical methods to achieve the required purity levels for industrial applications like battery manufacturing or radiation shielding.

Products Included

• Refined lead ingots
• Refined lead blocks
• Refined lead pigs
• Refined lead slabs
• Refined lead wire-bars (unwrought)
• High-purity lead (99.9%+)

Common Misclassification

Refined lead is often misclassified with lead alloys, which fall under 7801.91 (containing antimony) or 7801.99 (other unwrought lead). The primary difference is the purity level; if the lead content is below 99.9% and contains alloying elements above the permitted thresholds, it cannot be classified under 7801.10. Additionally, lead waste and scrap should be classified under 7802.00, and semi-manufactured lead products like plates, sheets, or strips fall under 7804.

FAQ

What is the HS code for refined lead?

The HS code for refined lead is 7801.10, which specifically covers unwrought refined lead in primary forms.

What defines lead as "refined" for HS classification?

For HS purposes, refined lead must contain at least 99.9% lead by weight, or meet specific low-impurity thresholds for other elements as defined in the Chapter 78 legal notes.