About HS Code 854921
This HS code specifically targets complex electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) that is primarily destined for the recovery of precious metals, and critically, contains hazardous components like batteries, mercury switches, or CRT glass. This material is a significant part of the circular economy, as it represents a valuable secondary source of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Importers are typically specialized recycling and refining facilities equipped to safely process hazardous materials and extract precious metals. Exporters are often countries with high consumption of electronics and robust collection systems for end-of-life products. Key trade considerations include strict environmental regulations (e.g., Basel Convention), safe handling and transport protocols, and the technological capabilities of recycling plants. The trade in this e-waste is driven by both economic incentives (metal value) and environmental mandates to reduce landfill waste and recover resources, posing significant logistical and regulatory challenges globally.
Products Under This Code
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) with components, Mobile phone circuit boards, Laptop motherboards, Server rack components, Gold-plated connectors, Integrated circuits (ICs), Memory modules, CPU chips
Real World Examples
End-of-life smartphones, Discarded computer motherboards, Used server blades, Old digital cameras, GPS devices
Common Misclassification
This code is distinct from 854929 because of the explicit presence of hazardous components like batteries or CRT glass, which requires specific handling and regulatory compliance.
Products Classified Under 8549.21
Industry
This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.
Trade Overview
China, Hong Kong, Belgium, and Germany are prominent countries involved in the import and export of this specific type of hazardous e-waste for precious metal recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 854921?
HS code 854921 covers: Electrical and electronic waste and scrap; of a kind used principally for the recovery of precious metal, containing primary cells and batteries, electric accumulators, mercury-switches, glass from cathode ray tubes or other activated glass, or electrical. This HS code specifically targets complex electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) that is primarily destined for the recovery of precious metals, and critically, contains hazardous components like batteries, mercury switches, or CRT glass. This material is a significant part of the circular economy, as it represents a valuable secondary source of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Importers are typically specialized recycling and refining facilities equipped to safely process hazardous materials and extract precious metals. Exporters are often countries with high consumption of electronics and robust collection systems for end-of-life products. Key trade considerations include strict environmental regulations (e.g., Basel Convention), safe handling and transport protocols, and the technological capabilities of recycling plants. The trade in this e-waste is driven by both economic incentives (metal value) and environmental mandates to reduce landfill waste and recover resources, posing significant logistical and regulatory challenges globally.
What products fall under HS code 854921?
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) with components, Mobile phone circuit boards, Laptop motherboards, Server rack components, Gold-plated connectors, Integrated circuits (ICs), Memory modules, CPU chips
What are common misclassifications for HS code 854921?
This code is distinct from 854929 because of the explicit presence of hazardous components like batteries or CRT glass, which requires specific handling and regulatory compliance.
How is HS code 854921 structured?
HS code 854921 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (49) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (21) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.