HS 250830 Fireclay

Quick Answer: HS code 250830 specifically covers "Fireclay," a refractory clay primarily composed of hydrated aluminum silicates, valued for its high melting point and resistance to heat. It is crucial for manufacturing firebricks, crucibles, and other refractory products used in furnaces and kilns. Importers and exporters should note that this commodity generally faces minimal or no ad valorem duties in major markets. For instance, the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty. In the United States, fireclay is subject to a specific duty rate of $1.97 per tonne, or "Free" under certain trade programs. Due to its industrial applications, trade considerations often revolve around quality specifications, origin, and transport logistics rather than prohibitive tariffs.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2508300000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2508300000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2508300000 Free — ["t"]

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

How Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 250830 cover?

This subheading covers fireclay, which is a refractory clay capable of withstanding high temperatures without deforming or melting. It is primarily composed of hydrous aluminum silicates, often with a low content of iron and alkali impurities. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2508 specify that fireclay is a type of common clay used in the manufacture of refractory products, such as firebricks, crucibles, and furnace linings. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system align with this scope, emphasizing its refractory properties and typical end-uses in high-temperature industrial applications.

What falls outside HS 250830?

The following products are excluded from HS 250830: other types of clay that do not possess the specific refractory properties of fireclay, even if they are used in ceramic applications. For instance, kaolin and other kaolinic clays (HS 250700) are distinct due to their higher purity and primary use in paper, ceramics, and rubber industries, rather than solely for high-temperature resistance. Similarly, bentonite (HS 250810) and other common clays (HS 250840) are classified separately based on their unique mineralogical compositions and industrial applications, such as drilling muds or brick manufacturing, which do not necessarily require high refractoriness.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 250830?

A common error is misclassifying other types of refractory materials or non-refractory clays as fireclay. Importers sometimes confuse fireclay with other high-alumina materials or even common brick clays, failing to recognize the specific chemical composition and refractory performance criteria that define fireclay. Another mistake involves classifying processed or manufactured fireclay products, such as firebricks or refractory cements, under this raw material subheading, when these finished goods belong to Chapter 68 or other relevant chapters based on their form and function. Proper application of General Interpretative Rule 1 and 6 is crucial to ensure the product's essential character as raw fireclay is accurately assessed.

How should importers classify products under HS 250830?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 250830 involves verifying that the material is indeed raw fireclay, characterized by its refractory properties and typical chemical composition. Importers and customs brokers should obtain detailed technical specifications from the supplier, including chemical analysis (e.g., alumina, silica, iron oxide content) and refractory test data (e.g., pyrometric cone equivalent or refractoriness under load). This documentation is essential to demonstrate that the clay meets the definition of fireclay as understood by the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, ensuring accurate declaration and compliance with import regulations and duty rates, such as the 0% ad valorem rate in the US for this subheading.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 250860 HS 250810 HS 250870 HS 250840 HS 250590 HS 253090

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What is the import duty rate for fireclay (HS 2508.30) into the United States?

Under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for fireclay classified under subheading 2508.30.00.00 is Free (0.00% ad valorem). This applies to goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has normal trade relations. Importers should verify the current HTSUS through the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website.

How is 'fireclay' specifically defined for classification under HS 2508.30, and what are its key characteristics?

For classification under HS 2508.30, 'fireclay' refers to refractory clays primarily composed of hydrous aluminum silicates, capable of withstanding high temperatures without deforming. Key characteristics include a high alumina content (typically 25-45% Al2O3), low iron content, and a refractoriness (PCE) generally above Seger cone 18 (approximately 1520°C). It is distinguished from other clays by its specific chemical composition and heat-resistant properties, making it suitable for manufacturing refractory products. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes to Chapter 25 provide further guidance on the characteristics of various clays.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for fireclay (HS 2508.30) under common trade agreements when importing into the EU or UK?

Yes, preferential duty rates may apply. For imports into the European Union, the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) for HS 2508.30.00.00 typically shows a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate. However, specific trade agreements (e.g., with certain developing countries or free trade partners) might also confirm this free rate or offer specific conditions. Similarly, for imports into the United Kingdom, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) for HS 2508.30.00.00 is also 0.00% ad valorem. Importers should consult the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff, respectively, and ensure proper origin documentation (e.g., EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration) is available to claim any applicable preferential treatment, even if the MFN rate is already free.

What documentation is typically required for customs clearance of fireclay (HS 2508.30)?

Standard import documentation is required for customs clearance of fireclay. This typically includes a commercial invoice detailing the goods, value, and parties involved; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a customs declaration (import entry). While fireclay is generally not subject to specific permits or licenses, importers should ensure the commercial invoice accurately describes the product as 'fireclay' and includes its HS code (2508.30) to facilitate correct classification. For preferential duty claims, a valid certificate of origin or origin declaration is also essential.

Does the form (e.g., raw, crushed, calcined) of fireclay impact its classification under HS 2508.30 or its duty rate?

Generally, the classification under HS 2508.30 covers fireclay in its various forms, including raw, crushed, ground, or calcined (fired to remove moisture and impurities, but not to the point of vitrification). The core characteristic for classification remains its chemical composition and refractory properties. Therefore, as long as it retains the essential character of fireclay, these forms typically fall under 2508.30. The duty rate, such as the Free rate in the U.S. HTSUS or the EU/UK tariffs, usually applies uniformly across these forms, provided no other substances have been added to change its fundamental character or create a 'preparation' of fireclay.