Carbon (carbon blacks and other forms of carbon not elsewhere specified or included)
2 declarable lines
Heading 2803 covers carbon in bulk forms, mainly carbon black and other forms of carbon that are not classified in a more specific heading. The heading has only two declarable lines: one for carbon black and one for other forms of carbon. Both carry a general (MFN) duty rate of Free.
Products in this heading
- Carbon black in powder or pellet form for rubber compounding
- Carbon black used as a pigment in inks and coatings
- Carbon black for plastics coloring
- Other elemental carbon in bulk form not covered by a more specific heading
- Carbon black sold in bags to manufacturers
How to choose the right subheading
- Confirm the product is elemental carbon in bulk form, not a compound such as a carbide or carbonate.
- Determine whether the carbon is carbon black or another form of carbon, which decides between the two lines.
- Check that the carbon is not activated, since activated carbon goes to heading 3802.
- Check that the product is not a finished article such as an electrode or a carbon fiber article.
Often confused with
- Heading 3802Activated carbon
Activated carbon has its own heading even though it is a form of carbon.
- Heading 3801Artificial graphite
Artificial graphite and colloidal graphite are classified outside heading 2803.
- Heading 8545Carbon electrodes
Carbon electrodes are finished articles classified in the electrical goods chapter.
- Heading 6815Carbon fibers and articles of carbon fiber
Carbon fibers are classified as articles of stone, graphite or similar materials, not as bulk carbon.
- Heading 2504Natural graphite
Natural graphite is a mineral product classified in chapter 25.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HTS code for carbon black?
Carbon black is classified under 2803.00.00.10. The general (MFN) duty rate for that line is Free.
What is the duty on other forms of carbon under heading 2803?
Other forms of carbon not elsewhere specified or included fall under 2803.00.00.50. The general (MFN) duty rate for that line is Free.
How do I classify carbon black compared with activated carbon?
Plain carbon black in bulk goes in 2803.00.00.10 at a general (MFN) rate of Free. If the carbon has been activated, it is excluded from heading 2803 and is classified in heading 3802 instead.
Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.