HS Code for Tin alloys

Tin alloys in their primary, unworked form are classified under HS code 8001.20. This classification is part of Chapter 80, which encompasses tin and articles thereof. According to the legal notes for Section XV of the Harmonized System, a metallic substance is classified as an alloy of the metal which predominates by weight over each of the other constituent elements. For 8001.20, tin must be the primary component. Furthermore, the material must be in an "unwrought" form, which refers to primary shapes produced by casting or sintering, such as ingots, blocks, slabs, or pigs. These alloys are critical in various industrial sectors due to their unique properties, such as low melting points and corrosion resistance. Common tin alloys include Babbitt metal, used for bearings, and pewter, used for decorative items. The classification ensures that these specialized mixtures are distinguished from pure refined tin, as their physical properties, chemical compositions, and market values differ significantly from the unalloyed metal.

Products Included

• Unwrought Babbitt metal (tin-antimony-copper alloys)
• Unwrought pewter ingots
• Tin-lead alloys in ingot form (if tin predominates)
• White metal alloys in blocks or slabs
• Unwrought tin-based solders (without flux)

Common Misclassification

Tin alloys are frequently confused with pure tin classified under 8001.10. The distinction depends on the purity level; 8001.10 is for refined tin (usually >99%), while 8001.20 is for mixtures where other elements are intentionally added. Another common error is classifying worked tin alloys, such as bars or rods, under this code. Worked products belong in 8003.00. Additionally, if another metal like copper predominates by weight, the alloy must be classified under that metal's chapter (e.g., Chapter 74).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Tin alloys?

The HS code for unwrought tin alloys is 8001.20.

What defines a tin alloy for customs purposes?

For customs classification, a tin alloy is a metallic substance where the weight of tin is greater than the weight of any other single element in the mixture.