About HS Code 401220
This HS code covers used pneumatic tires, which are no longer suitable for their original purpose but retain value for recycling, energy recovery, or potential re-export for retreading in other markets. International trade in used tires is a complex global issue, driven by environmental regulations, raw material costs, and demand for secondary uses. Importers are often recycling plants, cement kilns (for use as tire-derived fuel), or companies involved in manufacturing tire-derived products like playground surfaces or asphalt additives. Exporters are typically waste management companies, tire retailers, or collection centers. Key aspects include the condition of the used tires (e.g., whole, shredded), environmental compliance for transport and disposal, and the fluctuating market for recycled rubber and tire-derived fuel. This trade is under increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns.
Products Under This Code
Scrap tires, end-of-life tires (ELT), shredded tires, tire chips, whole used tires, tire bales
Real World Examples
Michelin (tire recycling programs), Bridgestone (tire recycling programs), Liberty Tire Recycling, Genan, Ecore International
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with retreadable casings (which might fall under other codes if specifically for retreading) or with new/retreaded tires if their "used" status is not accurately declared, leading to significant regulatory issues.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Products Classified Under 4012.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Automotive & Vehicles industry.
Trade Overview
China, India, and Southeast Asian nations are major importers for recycling and energy recovery, while developed nations like the USA and EU countries are significant exporters of used tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 401220?
HS code 401220 covers: Rubber; used pneumatic tyres. This HS code covers used pneumatic tires, which are no longer suitable for their original purpose but retain value for recycling, energy recovery, or potential re-export for retreading in other markets. International trade in used tires is a complex global issue, driven by environmental regulations, raw material costs, and demand for secondary uses. Importers are often recycling plants, cement kilns (for use as tire-derived fuel), or companies involved in manufacturing tire-derived products like playground surfaces or asphalt additives. Exporters are typically waste management companies, tire retailers, or collection centers. Key aspects include the condition of the used tires (e.g., whole, shredded), environmental compliance for transport and disposal, and the fluctuating market for recycled rubber and tire-derived fuel. This trade is under increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns.
What products fall under HS code 401220?
Scrap tires, end-of-life tires (ELT), shredded tires, tire chips, whole used tires, tire bales
What are common misclassifications for HS code 401220?
Can be confused with retreadable casings (which might fall under other codes if specifically for retreading) or with new/retreaded tires if their "used" status is not accurately declared, leading to significant regulatory issues.
How is HS code 401220 structured?
HS code 401220 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (40) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (12) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.