HS Code for Semiconductor wafers

Semiconductor wafers are classified under HS code 381800. This classification is found in Chapter 38, which covers miscellaneous chemical products. The heading specifically includes chemical elements doped for use in electronics, in the form of discs, wafers, or similar forms, as well as chemical compounds doped for use in electronics. The classification logic is based on the state of the material: it is a chemical element (usually silicon) that has undergone a "doping" process—the intentional introduction of impurities to change its electrical conductivity. Even though these wafers are the foundation of all modern electronics, they are classified as chemical products rather than electronic components because they are the raw substrate material. The wafers must be in a form ready for further processing into electronic devices to qualify for this code. This includes polished wafers, epitaxial wafers, and diffused wafers that have not yet been cut into individual chips.

Products Included

• Doped silicon wafers
• Gallium arsenide wafers
• Epitaxial silicon wafers
• Polished semiconductor discs
• Doped germanium wafers

Common Misclassification

A common error is classifying wafers under HS code 2804, which covers pure chemical elements like silicon. However, once the silicon is "doped" for electronic use and shaped into a wafer, it must move to 381800. Another misclassification is HS code 8541, which covers finished semiconductor devices like diodes and transistors. Wafers are the material used to make these devices, but until they are processed into individual components with specific functions, they remain in Chapter 38.

FAQ

What is the HS code for semiconductor wafers?

The HS code for doped semiconductor wafers is 381800.

Are undoped wafers classified here?

No, undoped wafers or pure silicon in bulk form are typically classified under HS code 280461 (silicon containing at least 99.99% by weight of silicon).