HS Code for Natural barium sulfate

Introduction to Natural Barium Sulfate and HS Codes

Natural barium sulfate, also known as barite or barytes, is an important mineral ore used in various industries. As international trade of this mineral continues to grow, understanding its proper HS (Harmonized System) code classification is crucial for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals. In this article, we’ll explore the HS code for natural barium sulfate and how FreightAmigo’s Digital Logistics Platform can help streamline the shipping process for this valuable mineral resource.

What is Natural Barium Sulfate?

Natural barium sulfate (BaSO4) is a mineral commonly known as barite or barytes. It is characterized by its high density and low solubility in water. The mineral occurs naturally in sedimentary rocks and is often found in veins associated with ores of other metals. Some key facts about natural barium sulfate include:

• Chemical formula: BaSO4
• Appearance: White or colorless crystals
• Density: 4.5 g/cm3
• Mohs hardness: 3-3.5

Industrial Applications of Barite

Barite has numerous industrial applications due to its unique properties:

1. Drilling fluids: Its high density makes it ideal for use in oil and gas well drilling fluids.
2. Radiation shielding: Barite’s ability to block radiation makes it useful in medical and nuclear applications.
3. Filler material: It’s used in paints, plastics, and rubber products as a weighting agent.
4. Paper production: Barite is used to increase the weight and opacity of paper.
5. Automotive industry: It’s utilized in brake linings and clutch pads.

Understanding HS Codes

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for classifying traded products. It is used by customs authorities around the world to identify products when assessing duties and taxes and for gathering statistics. The system is used by more than 200 countries and covers more than 5,000 commodity groups, each identified by a six-digit code.

HS Code for Natural Barium Sulfate

The HS code for natural barium sulfate (barite) is:

2511.10

This code falls under Chapter 25 of the HS, which covers “Salt; sulphur; earths and stone; plastering materials, lime and cement”. The full breakdown of the code is as follows:

• 25: Chapter – Salt; sulphur; earths and stone; plastering materials, lime and cement
• 11: Heading – Natural barium sulphate (barytes); natural barium carbonate (witherite), whether or not calcined, other than barium oxide of heading 28.16
• 10: Subheading – Natural barium sulphate (barytes)

Importance of Correct HS Code Classification

Proper classification of natural barium sulfate under the correct HS code is crucial for several reasons:

1. Duty rates: Incorrect classification can lead to overpayment or underpayment of import duties.
2. Compliance: Misclassification can result in penalties or delays in customs clearance.
3. Trade statistics: Accurate classification ensures reliable international trade data.
4. Trade agreements: Proper classification is necessary to take advantage of preferential tariff treatments under various trade agreements.

Challenges in HS Code Classification for Barite

While the HS code for natural barium sulfate is straightforward, there can be challenges in classification, especially when dealing with processed or mixed products. For instance:

• Synthetic barium sulfate falls under a different HS code (2833.27)
• Mixtures containing barite may be classified differently based on their composition and intended use
• Processed barite products might fall under different classifications depending on their form and application

How FreightAmigo Can Help with Barite Shipping and Classification

As a Digital Logistics Platform, FreightAmigo offers several solutions to help businesses navigate the complexities of shipping natural barium sulfate and other mineral ores:

1. Expert classification assistance: Our team can help ensure your barite shipments are correctly classified under the appropriate HS code.
2. Comprehensive shipping solutions: We offer door-to-door freight quotes for international courier, airfreight, sea freight, rail freight, and trucking solutions.
3. Customs clearance support: Our platform can assist with arranging customs clearance, helping to prevent delays due to misclassification.
4. Document automation: We can help automate shipment documents, reducing the risk of errors in classification and other crucial information.
5. 24/7 expert support: Our logistics experts are available around the clock to address any concerns or questions about shipping barite or other mineral ores.

Best Practices for Shipping Natural Barium Sulfate

When shipping natural barium sulfate internationally, consider the following best practices:

1. Proper packaging: Ensure the barite is properly packaged to prevent contamination and spillage.
2. Accurate labeling: Clearly label the packages with the correct HS code and product description.
3. Documentation: Prepare all necessary documents, including material safety data sheets (MSDS) and certificates of origin.
4. Compliance checks: Verify compliance with both export and import regulations in the origin and destination countries.
5. Use a reliable logistics partner: Work with an experienced logistics provider like FreightAmigo to ensure smooth shipping and customs clearance.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct HS code for natural barium sulfate (2511.10) is crucial for businesses involved in the international trade of this important mineral ore. Proper classification ensures compliance with customs regulations, accurate duty payments, and smooth international shipping processes. By leveraging FreightAmigo’s Digital Logistics Platform, businesses can streamline their barite shipping operations, from classification to customs clearance and beyond. Our comprehensive solutions and expert support can help you navigate the complexities of international mineral ore trade with confidence and efficiency.

References

1. World Customs Organization, “HS Nomenclature 2022 Edition”, https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/nomenclature/instrument-and-tools/hs-nomenclature-2022-edition.aspx

2. U.S. Geological Survey, “Barite”, https://www.usgs.gov/centers/national-minerals-information-center/barite-statistics-and-information