High Purity Graphite Powder
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3801105010 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 3801101000 | 38.7% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2830909000 | 38.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2504105000 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2830901500 | 37.8% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
βοΈ High Purity Graphite Powder (Synthetic vs. Natural)
π HS Code Reference & Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Structure | Professional Customs Strategy
π 1. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know the Real Identity of "Graphite Powder"?
High Purity Graphite Powder is a critical material in modern industries, ranging from lithium-ion battery anodes to nuclear energy and semiconductor manufacturing. In international trade, it is NOT a single uniform category. It is strictly divided based on its raw material source (Natural vs. Synthetic) and processing state.
β οΈ Critical Distinction Point:
- Synthetic Graphite: Produced from petroleum coke/anthracite through high-temperature graphitization. Generally classified under Chapter 38 (Prepared binders, chemical products) or specific synthetic subheadings.
- Natural Graphite: Mined from the earth and purified. Classified under Chapter 25 (Mineral products).
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring natural graphite as synthetic (or vice versa) can lead to significant duty differences, penalties, and shipment delays.
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, here are the five specific HS codes applicable to High Purity Graphite Powder, categorized by their nature and tax implications.
| HS Code | Product Description | Material/Origin | Form | Tax Detail Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3801.10.50.10 | Purified Synthetic Graphite Powder | Synthetic Graphite | Powder | Base: 0%, Add'l: 25%, 122 Clause: 10% |
| 3801.10.10.00 | Purified Synthetic / Ultra-fine Graphite Powder | Synthetic Graphite | Ultra-fine Powder | Base: 3.7%, Add'l: 25%, 122 Clause: 10% |
| 2830.90.90.00 | Ultra-fine Graphite Powder | Graphite (Misclassified as Sulfide/Multi-sulfide category in data) | Powder | Base: 3.0%, Add'l: 25%, 122 Clause: 10% |
| 2504.10.50.00 | Ultra-fine Graphite Powder | Natural Graphite | Powder | Base: 0%, Add'l: 25%, 122 Clause: 10% |
| 2830.90.15.00 | Graphite Powder | Carbon Material (Classified under Sulfides/Multi-sulfides in data) | Powder | Base: 2.8%, Add'l: 25%, 122 Clause: 10% |
π Key Insight:
- Synthetic vs. Natural: Codes starting with3801are typically for synthetic graphites. Codes starting with2504are for natural graphites.
- The "2830" Anomaly: Codes2830.90.90.00and2830.90.15.00classify graphite under "Sulfides/Multi-sulfides" or "Other chemical substances." This is unusual for pure graphite and suggests either a specific chemical compound involving sulfur or a complex customs interpretation requiring strong justification. Caution: Misusing these codes for pure carbon graphite may trigger audits.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges & Policy Add-ons)
β Applicable Country: USA (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current regulations apply (Surcharges include USITC Footnote 9903 & IEEPA provisions)
π― 1. 3801.10.50.10 ββ Purified Synthetic Graphite Powder (0% Base)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0% (Ad valorem) |
| USITC Additional Duty (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (Section 122/EEA) | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 35% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Denied) |
| Legal Path | USITC:3801.10.50.10 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
π Explanation:
- The base duty is 0%, but the 35% total is driven by the 25% Section 301 tariff and the 10% IEEPA surcharge.
- This is the most common code for synthetic graphite used in battery anodes.
π― 2. 3801.10.10.00 ββ Purified Synthetic / Ultra-fine Graphite Powder (3.7% Base)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 3.7% |
| USITC Additional Duty (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (Section 122/EEA) | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 38.7% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 38.7% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | USITC:3801.10.10.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
π Explanation:
- Slightly higher base duty (3.7%) results in a 38.7% total.
- Often applied to ultra-fine synthetic powders with specific particle size distributions.
π― 3. 2830.90.90.00 ββ Ultra-fine Graphite Powder (Misclassified as Sulfides)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 3.0% |
| USITC Additional Duty (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (Section 122/EEA) | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 38.0% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 38.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | USITC:2830.90.90.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
π Warning:
- This code places graphite under Sulfides. If the product is pure carbon, this classification is highly risky. Customs may request proof that the product contains sulfur compounds or is a specific chemical mixture.
- Only use if the product is chemically modified with sulfur or part of a sulfide composite.
π― 4. 2504.10.50.00 ββ Ultra-fine Graphite Powder (Natural)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 0% |
| USITC Additional Duty (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (Section 122/EEA) | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 35.0% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 35.0% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | USITC:2504.10.50.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
π Explanation:
- Natural Graphite classification.
- Total rate is 35.0%, same as synthetic code3801.10.50.10.
- Must provide proof of natural origin (mining license, geological survey reports).
π― 5. 2830.90.15.00 ββ Graphite Powder (Carbon Material under Sulfides)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Duty Rate | 2.8% |
| USITC Additional Duty (Section 301) | +25% |
| IEEPA Additional Duty (Section 122/EEA) | +10% |
| Total Effective Rate | 37.8% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 37.8% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible |
| Legal Path | USITC:2830.90.15.00 β FOOTNOTE:9903.88.01 β IEEPA:9903.01.24 |
π Warning:
- Like2830.90.90.00, this code is in Chapter 28 (Chemicals) but not Chapter 38 or 25.
- It classifies graphite as an "Other chemical substance."
- High Audit Risk: Customs will likely demand a chemical analysis report to justify why pure graphite is not classified under 2504 (Natural) or 3801 (Synthetic).
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Battle-Tested Pitfall Avoidance)
β 1. Document Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must explicitly state: Synthetic OR Natural, Purity Level (%C), Particle Size (D50, D90), and Ash Content. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Critical to distinguish between Natural (Chapter 25) and Synthetic (Chapter 38). |
| β Manufacturing Process Description | βοΈ | For Synthetic: Explain the graphitization process (petroleum coke β calcination β graphitization). For Natural: Explain purification (HF acid, alkali, etc.). |
| β Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | βοΈ | Confirm hazard class. Pure graphite is generally non-hazardous, but impurities may affect classification. |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must match the HS Code exactly. Use precise English descriptions like "Purified Synthetic Graphite Powder, <45Β΅m, >99.9% Carbon." |
| β Third-Party Lab Report | βοΈ | Preferred: SGS, Intertek, or BV report confirming carbon content and absence of sulfur compounds (if using 2830 codes). |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)
π₯ "Origin Determines Chapter, Purity Determines Code, Don't Mix Sulfides!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Wrong Practice | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Graphite Powder | 3801.10.50.10 or 3801.10.10.00 |
Declaring as Natural (2504.10.50.00) |
Penalty for misdeclaration + Back duties |
| Natural Graphite Powder | 2504.10.50.00 |
Declaring as Synthetic (3801.10.50.10) |
Risk of audit for false origin claim |
| Pure Carbon Graphite | Avoid 2830 codes unless chemically complex |
Using 2830.90.90.00 for pure graphite |
High Audit Risk: Customs will reject "Sulfide" classification |
| Graphite Sulfide Composite | 2830.90.90.00 or 2830.90.15.00 |
Using 3801 or 2504 |
Incorrect classification, potential fines |
β 3. Special Case Handling
| Situation | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Battery-Grade Synthetic Graphite | Use 3801.10.50.10. Provide battery manufacturerβs specification sheet. |
| Nuclear-Grade Graphite | May require additional nuclear material declarations. Ensure purity >99.99% is documented. |
| Graphite with Sulfur Coating | If sulfur is a coating, not a compound, still prefer 3801 or 2504. If it's a chemical compound (e.g., graphite intercalation compound with sulfur), then 2830 may be applicable. Consult customs broker. |
| Mixed Shipments (Synthetic + Natural) | Never mix. Declare separately. Mixed containers may be rejected or audited entirely. |
π 5. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 3801.10.50.10 (Syn) / 2504.10.50.00 (Nat) |
35% Total (0/3.7% Base + 25% Sec 301 + 10% IEEPA) | None specific | Highε ³η¨. No de minimis. |
| π¨π³ China | 3801.10.10 / 2504.10.00 |
3.7% - 8% | None | Low import duty, but strict environmental checks on natural graphite mining. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 3802.90.00 / 2504.10.00 |
3.7% - 4.2% | REACH Registration | Graphite powder may require REACH registration if imported >1 ton/year. |
| π―π΅ Japan | 3801.90.00 / 2504.10.00 |
3.0% - 4.0% | PSE (if electrical) | Stable rates, no Section 301 equivalent. |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the highest-cost market for graphite powder due to layered tariffs (Base + 301 + IEEPA).
- EU and Japan offer lower base duties but have strict chemical registration (REACH/PSE) requirements.
π 6. Common Errors & Pitfall Guide (Lessons Learned)
β Error 1: Using 2830 codes for pure graphite powder
π Consequence: Customs rejects the declaration as "misclassified chemical substance." Shipment held for inspection. Delay: 2-4 weeks.
β Error 2: Mixing Synthetic and Natural graphite in one HS Code
π Consequence: Audit risk. If origin cannot be proven, Customs may apply the highest possible duty or penalize for fraud.
β Error 3: Ignoring the 10% IEEPA Surcharge
π Consequence: Budget miscalculation. Many brokers forget to add the 10% IEEPA tariff on top of the 25% Section 301. Total is 35% or 38.7%, not 25%.
β Error 4: Declaring "Graphite" without specifying Synthetic/Natural
π Consequence: Customs will issue a Request for Information (RFI). If response is late, goods may be abandoned or returned.
β Correct Practice:
"Purified Synthetic Graphite Powder, Particle Size <45um, Carbon Content >99.9%, Used for Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes, Made in China"
HS Code:3801.10.50.10
π― 7. Conclusion: Precise Classification Saves Money!
π― Remember the Mantra:
πΉ "Synthetic = 3801, Natural = 2504. Never use 2830 for pure carbon!"
πΉ "Total Tariff is 35%-38.7% in USA. Plan your pricing accordingly!"
π Pro Tip:
- If you are importing Ultra-Fine Graphite Powder for Battery Anodes, stick to 3801.10.50.10 (if synthetic) or 2504.10.50.00 (if natural).
- If your product is a Graphite-Sulfur Composite, then 2830 codes may apply, but provide a chemical structure diagram.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a licensed customs broker + Provide SDS + Lab Report + Apply for Advance Ruling if unsure.
π Avoid delays, prevent penalties, and protect your profit margin!
β¨ Professional Customs Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Your cost per kilogram matters. Every percentage point counts!
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About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.