HS Code Subheading

Plastics n.e.c. in heading no. 3915; waste, parings and scrap

3915.90 Subheading
Section VII — Plastics and articles thereof; rubber and articles thereof

About HS Code 391590

This HS code covers plastic waste, parings, and scrap that aren't specifically categorized elsewhere within HS 3915. It's a crucial category in the circular economy, representing materials destined for recycling and reprocessing rather than landfill. Importers are typically recycling facilities, plastic manufacturers looking for cost-effective raw materials, or companies specializing in waste management and material recovery. Exporters include industrial manufacturers generating plastic by-products, waste collection companies, and material recovery facilities. The trade in these materials is heavily influenced by environmental regulations, global demand for recycled content, and fluctuating virgin plastic prices. Key considerations include contamination levels, material type segregation, and international waste shipment regulations like the Basel Convention, which can impact cross-border movement. The global push for sustainability means this trade is growing, with a focus on high-quality, sorted plastic waste.

Products Under This Code

Mixed plastic scrap, PVC waste, PET bottle flakes, HDPE regrind, PP film scrap, ABS waste, Nylon fiber waste, Polycarbonate sheet offcuts

Real World Examples

Recycled PET flakes from Coca-Cola bottles, HDPE regrind from milk jugs, PVC window profile offcuts, Automotive bumper scrap (mixed plastics)

Common Misclassification

This code can be confused with virgin plastic raw materials (e.g., 3901-3914) if the waste is highly processed into pellets, or with general non-plastic waste (e.g., 392690) if not clearly identifiable as plastic.

Products Classified Under 3915.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Plastics & Rubber industry.

Trade Overview

China, Malaysia, and Turkey are significant importers, while the EU, USA, and Japan are major exporters of plastic waste for recycling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 391590?

HS code 391590 covers: Plastics n.e.c. in heading no. 3915; waste, parings and scrap. This HS code covers plastic waste, parings, and scrap that aren't specifically categorized elsewhere within HS 3915. It's a crucial category in the circular economy, representing materials destined for recycling and reprocessing rather than landfill. Importers are typically recycling facilities, plastic manufacturers looking for cost-effective raw materials, or companies specializing in waste management and material recovery. Exporters include industrial manufacturers generating plastic by-products, waste collection companies, and material recovery facilities. The trade in these materials is heavily influenced by environmental regulations, global demand for recycled content, and fluctuating virgin plastic prices. Key considerations include contamination levels, material type segregation, and international waste shipment regulations like the Basel Convention, which can impact cross-border movement. The global push for sustainability means this trade is growing, with a focus on high-quality, sorted plastic waste.

What products fall under HS code 391590?

Mixed plastic scrap, PVC waste, PET bottle flakes, HDPE regrind, PP film scrap, ABS waste, Nylon fiber waste, Polycarbonate sheet offcuts

What are common misclassifications for HS code 391590?

This code can be confused with virgin plastic raw materials (e.g., 3901-3914) if the waste is highly processed into pellets, or with general non-plastic waste (e.g., 392690) if not clearly identifiable as plastic.

How is HS code 391590 structured?

HS code 391590 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 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.