HS Code Subheading

Styrene polymers; waste, parings and scrap

3915.20 Subheading
Section VII — Plastics and articles thereof; rubber and articles thereof

About HS Code 391520

This HS code pertains to waste, parings, and scrap of styrene polymers, primarily polystyrene (PS) and its copolymers. This material is a crucial input for the plastics recycling industry, facilitating the production of new goods from recycled content. Key importers are countries with significant plastic recycling infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, including Turkey, Malaysia, and Vietnam, which utilize these materials as a more economical alternative to virgin resins. Exporters typically originate from developed economies with established waste management and collection systems, such as the USA, EU countries, and Japan. The trade involves various forms, including expanded polystyrene (EPS) scrap, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) waste, and high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) regrind. Contamination levels and sorting quality are paramount for successful trade and reprocessing. The market is influenced by global plastic demand, recycling policies, and the drive towards sustainable manufacturing practices.

Products Under This Code

Polystyrene (PS) waste, Expanded polystyrene (EPS) scrap, High-impact polystyrene (HIPS) regrind, General-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) flakes, PS industrial waste, PS packaging scrap, SAN waste

Real World Examples

Recycled PS pellets, Recycled EPS foam, Post-consumer PS waste, HIPS regrind, PS plastic bales

Common Misclassification

This code is for waste/scrap of styrene polymers; it should not be confused with virgin styrene polymers (3903) or waste of other plastics like vinyl chloride polymers (391530) if not correctly identified.

Products Classified Under 3915.20

Industry

This code belongs to the Plastics & Rubber industry.

Trade Overview

Major importers include Turkey, Malaysia, and Vietnam, with key exporters often being developed nations like the USA, EU countries, and Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 391520?

HS code 391520 covers: Styrene polymers; waste, parings and scrap. This HS code pertains to waste, parings, and scrap of styrene polymers, primarily polystyrene (PS) and its copolymers. This material is a crucial input for the plastics recycling industry, facilitating the production of new goods from recycled content. Key importers are countries with significant plastic recycling infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, including Turkey, Malaysia, and Vietnam, which utilize these materials as a more economical alternative to virgin resins. Exporters typically originate from developed economies with established waste management and collection systems, such as the USA, EU countries, and Japan. The trade involves various forms, including expanded polystyrene (EPS) scrap, general-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) waste, and high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) regrind. Contamination levels and sorting quality are paramount for successful trade and reprocessing. The market is influenced by global plastic demand, recycling policies, and the drive towards sustainable manufacturing practices.

What products fall under HS code 391520?

Polystyrene (PS) waste, Expanded polystyrene (EPS) scrap, High-impact polystyrene (HIPS) regrind, General-purpose polystyrene (GPPS) flakes, PS industrial waste, PS packaging scrap, SAN waste

What are common misclassifications for HS code 391520?

This code is for waste/scrap of styrene polymers; it should not be confused with virgin styrene polymers (3903) or waste of other plastics like vinyl chloride polymers (391530) if not correctly identified.

How is HS code 391520 structured?

HS code 391520 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (39) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (15) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.