Product classification
HS code for Ferrous scrap: 7204.49
Ferrous waste and scrap, n.e.c. in heading no. 7204.
Classification of ferrous scrap under HS 7204.49
The classification of Ferrous Scrap under HS code 7204.49 is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System. Specifically, Chapter 72 covers iron and steel, and Heading 7204 is dedicated to ferrous waste and scrap, as well as remelting scrap ingots. Within this heading, the system differentiates between various types of scrap based on their composition and origin. Subheading 7204.49 serves as a residual category, often referred to as other ferrous waste and scrap. This means it includes materials that do not meet the specific definitions of cast iron, alloy steel, or tinned iron or steel. To qualify for this code, the material must be fit only for the recovery of metal through remelting or for use in the manufacture of chemical compounds. It typically consists of miscellaneous steel scrap from industrial processes or end-of-life products that have been collected and processed for recycling. The classification relies on the fact that the product is no longer usable for its original purpose and is being traded as a raw material for the steel industry. This code is essential for the global recycling industry, facilitating the trade of miscellaneous steel scrap used in electric arc furnaces.
- Covers
- Mixed heavy melting steel scrap (HMS 1 and 2)
- Shredded steel scrap not containing alloy steel
- Miscellaneous iron and steel turnings and shavings
- Crushed steel borings and chips
- Baled steel scrap from industrial stamping
- Also under 7204.49
- HMS 1&2
- Shredded auto bodies
- Cast iron engine blocks
- Structural beams from demolished buildings
- Used railway rails
Codes often confused with 7204.49
Common mistake. Ferrous scrap is frequently misclassified under other subheadings of 7204. For instance, scrap consisting of stainless steel must be classified under 7204.21, while other alloy steel scrap falls under 7204.29. Waste and scrap of cast iron are specifically assigned to 7204.10. Another common error involves tinned iron or steel scrap, which belongs under 7204.30. It is crucial to distinguish between general ferrous scrap and these specific categories to ensure correct duty application.
Top exporters and importers of HS 720449 (the code used for ferrous scrap), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 720449 (the code used for ferrous scrap) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 18% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Türkiye, with 26% 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 720449, not only ferrous scrap.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $4.4B 18% of world exports
- 2 United Kingdom $2.6B 10% of world exports
- 3 Japan $1.9B 7.5% of world exports
World total: $25.3B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Türkiye $6.9B 26% of world imports
- 2 India $2.8B 10% of world imports
- 3 Italy $1.5B 5.7% of world imports
World total: $26.7B 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 ferrous scrap
Brazil classifies ferrous scrap under NCM 7204.49.00: HS 7204.49 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 ferrous scrap
What is the HS code for Ferrous scrap?
The HS code for Ferrous scrap is 720449 (Ferrous waste and scrap; n.e.c. in heading no. 7204). The HS code for general ferrous waste and scrap not elsewhere specified is 7204.49.
How do I classify Ferrous scrap for customs?
Ferrous scrap is classified under HS code 720449 — Ferrous waste and scrap; n.e.c. in heading no. 7204. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include stainless steel scrap?
No, stainless steel scrap is specifically classified under HS code 7204.21 due to its high chromium content and different recycling value.
Which countries are the top exporters of ferrous scrap (HS 720449)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 720449 (the code used for ferrous scrap) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($4.4B, 18% of world exports), the United Kingdom ($2.6B) and Japan ($1.9B). World exports came to about $25.3B, 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 ferrous scrap (HS 720449)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 720449 (the code used for ferrous scrap) in UN Comtrade data were Türkiye ($6.9B, 26% of world imports), India ($2.8B) and Italy ($1.5B). World imports came to about $26.7B, 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 Ferrous scrap the same in all countries?
The base HS code 720449 for Ferrous 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 ferrous scrap in Brazil?
In Brazil, ferrous scrap (HS 720449) is classified under NCM 7204.49.00.