HS Code 80.02 – Tin; waste and scrap

HS code 8002 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Tin; waste and scrap. Heading 8002 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to "Tin; waste and scrap." This classification covers materials derived from tin that are no longer usable as finished articles but retain their metallic value, intended for recovery through melting or other refining processes. This includes manufacturing residues (e.g., clippings, turnings, dross, slag), defective or broken articles of tin, and worn-out tin products. The scope specifically targets materials from which tin can be economically recovered, playing a vital role in the circular economy by promoting recycling and reducing reliance on primary raw materials. It is distinct from unwrought tin (8001), which is refined metal, and from semi-manufactured forms (8003). For trade compliance professionals, accurately classifying tin waste and scrap is critical due to potential environmental regulations, export/import restrictions (such as those under the Basel Convention for hazardous waste), and specific licensing requirements. The purity and form of the scrap can significantly impact its classification and value. This heading directly contributes to Chapter 80 (Tin and articles thereof) within Section XV (Base Metals and Articles of Base Metal), highlighting the importance of secondary raw materials in the base metal trade and their role in sustainable industrial practices.

Tin clippings, Tin dross, Used tin cans (baled), Tin-plated steel scrap (where tin is primary focus for recovery), Solder waste, Tin anode scrap, Tin slag, Worn-out tin articles (e.g., old tin roofs for recycling), Manufacturing offcuts of tin, Defective tin components, Tin dust from processing, Spent tin plating baths (containing tin solids), Discarded tin packaging (for recycling), Used tin-based alloys (scrap), Tin residues from melting operations, Obsolete tin-containing electronics (pre-processing/dismantling), Industrial tin turnings, Tin foil scrap, Tin wire scrap, Tin plate cuttings.

A common error is confusing refined secondary tin ingots with tin waste and scrap (8002). If the material has been processed into a refined, unwrought form, it should be classified as 8001, not 8002, even if its origin is recycled. Another mistake occurs with mixed metal scrap; if tin is not the predominant metal by weight, it might fall under other base metal scrap headings (e.g., 7204 for ferrous scrap or 7404 for copper scrap). Furthermore, very low-grade residues or ash containing tin might be confused with 2620 (Ash and residues containing metals), but 8002 is specifically for metallic waste and scrap, not non-metallic residues or concentrates.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8002 in UN Comtrade data were Malaysia ($73M, 39% of world exports), Germany ($14M) and the Netherlands ($8.4M). World exports came to about $189M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 8002 in UN Comtrade data were Poland ($68M, 41% of world imports), Spain ($25M) and Belgium ($14M). World imports came to about $167M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 8002 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 80 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (80) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (02) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.