HS Code for Radioactive Cobalt (2844.40) 2025
TL;DR: The **HS code for radioactive cobalt is 2844.40** in 2025, covering Cobalt-60 used in medical and industrial applications. This guide details classification, 2025 regional updates, shipping rules, and compliance tips to avoid penalties in international trade.
What Is the HS Code for Radioactive Cobalt in 2025?
The HS code for radioactive cobalt remains 2844.40 under the 2025 Harmonized System nomenclature.**
HS codes standardize global trade classification. Managed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), they enable accurate tariff application and customs clearance.
- 6-digit base code used internationally
- Countries extend to 8-10 digits for specifics
- 2025 edition effective since January 1, no full WCO revision until 2027
- Essential for radioactive materials like Cobalt-60 isotopes
Understanding HS Chapter 28: Radioactive Elements and Isotopes
Chapter 28 covers inorganic chemicals, including radioactive elements under heading 2844.**
Radioactive cobalt, primarily Cobalt-60, falls into subheading 2844.40 for elements, isotopes, and compounds.
2844.40: Radioactive elements, isotopes and compounds (excluding certain specified subheadings), alloys, dispersions and residues containing these elements, isotopes or compounds.
This classification applies to medical radiotherapy sources and industrial gauges. Source: WCO HS Nomenclature 2025.
2025 Regional HS Code Updates for Radioactive Cobalt
While global HS stays stable, 2025 sees national changes impacting HS 2844.40 shipments.**
No major WCO revision until 2027, but countries adapt for stricter radiation controls.
| Region | 2025 HS Code Change | Impact on 2844.40 |
| USA | HTS updates Sep 2025; de minimis threshold tightens | 10-digit codes mandatory for all isotopes |
| GCC Countries | 12-digit HS implementation Jan 1 | Added digits for activity levels |
| EU | Combined Nomenclature refinements | Enhanced subheadings for cobalt compounds |
| China | Customs tariff adjustments | Stricter import licenses for 2844.40 |
| Australia | Biosecurity-aligned HS tweaks | Additional scrutiny for radioactive goods |
How to Find and Verify HS Code for Radioactive Cobalt Step-by-Step
Use this 2025 how-to guide to classify radioactive cobalt accurately.**
- Confirm material: Is it Cobalt-60 or similar isotope?
- Access WCO HS database or national tariff sites
- Navigate to Chapter 28, Heading 2844, Subheading 2844.40
- Check country-specific extensions (e.g., US HTS 2844.40.1000)
- Validate with binding ruling from customs
Pro tip: Use official tools like USITC HTS Search for precision.
Tariffs and Duties for HS 2844.40 in 2025
HS 2844.40 duties vary by destination but ensure compliance to avoid holds.**
- US: Generally duty-free under certain quotas
- EU: 0-6.5% MFN rates
- China: Up to 5% plus VAT
- Special rules for medical vs. industrial uses
- Export controls under IAEA safeguards
Shipping Requirements for Radioactive Cobalt HS 2844.40
2025 shipping rules for HS 2844.40 demand UN Class 7 compliance.**
- Packaging: IAEA Type A certified containers
- Labels: Radioactive trefoil, Category I/II/III
- Documentation: Competent
- Carriers: IATA/49 CFR for air, IMDG for sea
- Max activity limits per package
Always declare accurately to prevent rejection.
Common Mistakes with HS Code for Radioactive Cobalt and Fixes
Avoid these pitfalls in 2025 HS classification for radioactive materials.**
- Misclassifying as non-radioactive cobalt (2605.00)
- Ignoring regional digit extensions
- Overlooking dual-use export licenses
- Failing radiation safety declarations
- Not updating for 2025 national changes
FAQ: HS Code for Radioactive Cobalt 2025
Q: What is the exact HS code for radioactive cobalt? A: **2844.40** covers radioactive elements like Cobalt-60.
Q: Has the HS code for radioactive cobalt changed in 2025? A: No global change; regional extensions apply from January 2025.
Q: What chapter is HS 2844.40 under? A: Chapter 28 for inorganic chemicals and radioactive compounds.
Q: Is Cobalt-60 classified under HS 2844.40? A: Yes, as a radioactive isotope for medical/industrial use.
Q: What are US HTS codes for 2844.40 in 2025? A: Typically 2844.40.1000 or similar 10-digit variants.
Q: Do I need special packaging for HS 2844.40 shipments? A: Yes, IAEA Type A/B packages with trefoil labels required.
Q: Where to verify 2025 HS codes officially? A: WCO website or national customs portals.
Q: Are there duties on HS 2844.40 imports? A: Rates vary 0-6.5%; check MFN schedules.
Q: Can e-commerce ship radioactive cobalt? A: Limited quantities only, with full compliance.
Q: What's new for GCC HS codes in 2025? A: 12-digit codes with radiation specifics from Jan 1.
Resources
For HS 2844.40 shipments, Book a Demo with FreightAmigo. Contact: HKG: +852 24671689 / +852 23194879 | CHN: +86 4008751689 | USA: +1 337 361 2833 | GBR: +44 808 189 0136 | AUS: +61 180002752 | enquiry@freightamigo.com (WhatsApp available).