Product classification
HS code for Alloy steel scrap: 7204.29
Ferrous waste and scrap, of alloy steel (excluding stainless).
Classification of alloy steel scrap under HS 7204.29
Alloy steel scrap is classified under HS code 720429 because it represents ferrous waste and scrap specifically composed of alloy steel, with the explicit exclusion of stainless steel. This classification is crucial for distinguishing recyclable materials based on their metallic composition. The term "alloy steel" indicates that the scrap material contains specific alloying elements beyond the limits for non-alloy steel, which affects its recycling process and value. The exclusion of stainless steel is significant as stainless steel scrap has its own distinct classification due to its unique composition and higher value.
- Covers
- Used alloy steel parts, components, or structures that are no longer fit for their original purpose.
- Cuttings, turnings, filings, and other manufacturing residues from the processing of alloy steel (excluding stainless).
- Discarded alloy steel materials, such as obsolete tools, machinery parts, or structural elements, that are intended for remelting.
- Also under 7204.29
- 4140 alloy steel scrap
- 8620 alloy steel scrap
- H13 tool steel scrap
- D2 tool steel scrap
Codes often confused with 7204.29
Common mistake. Common misclassifications for alloy steel scrap include HS code 720410, which covers cast iron waste and scrap; the distinction is the base material (alloy steel vs. cast iron). A frequent error is confusing it with HS code 720421, which is specifically for stainless steel waste and scrap. The critical difference here is the explicit exclusion of stainless steel from 720429, as stainless steel contains higher chromium and often nickel content, warranting separate classification. Furthermore, HS code 720449 covers other ferrous waste and scrap (not cast iron, not alloy steel, not stainless), highlighting the importance of correctly identifying the alloy content.
Top exporters and importers of HS 720429 (the code used for alloy steel scrap), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 720429 (the code used for alloy steel scrap) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 13% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 720429, not only alloy steel scrap.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $367M 16% of world exports
- 2 Canada $276M 12% of world exports
- 3 Poland $225M 9.5% of world exports
World total: $2.4B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $223M 13% of world imports
- 2 India $127M 7.6% of world imports
- 3 Netherlands $122M 7.4% of world imports
World total: $1.7B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for alloy steel scrap
Brazil classifies alloy steel scrap under NCM 7204.29.00: HS 7204.29 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.
Questions about alloy steel scrap
What is the HS code for Alloy steel scrap?
The HS code for Alloy steel scrap is 720429 (Ferrous waste and scrap; of alloy steel (excluding stainless)). The HS code for alloy steel scrap is 720429. This code specifically covers ferrous waste and scrap composed of alloy steel, with the important exclusion of stainless steel scrap.
How do I classify Alloy steel scrap for customs?
Alloy steel scrap is classified under HS code 720429 — Ferrous waste and scrap; of alloy steel (excluding stainless). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Why is stainless steel scrap classified separately?
Stainless steel scrap is classified separately (under HS code 720421) primarily due to its distinct chemical composition, particularly its high chromium content (typically 10.5% or more) and often significant nickel content. These alloying elements impart superior corrosion resistance and other unique properties, making stainless steel a higher-value material with specific recycling requirements and markets. Separating it from other alloy steel scrap ensures accurate valuation and facilitates appropriate processing for recycling.
Which countries are the top exporters of alloy steel scrap (HS 720429)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 720429 (the code used for alloy steel scrap) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($367M, 16% of world exports), Canada ($276M) and Poland ($225M). World exports came to about $2.4B, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of alloy steel scrap (HS 720429)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 720429 (the code used for alloy steel scrap) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($223M, 13% of world imports), India ($127M) and the Netherlands ($122M). World imports came to about $1.7B, 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.
Is the HS code for Alloy steel scrap the same in all countries?
The base HS code 720429 for Alloy steel scrap is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for alloy steel scrap in Brazil?
In Brazil, alloy steel scrap (HS 720429) is classified under NCM 7204.29.00.