HS Code for Hazardous battery waste

Hazardous battery waste is classified under HS code 8549.12. This code was introduced in the 2022 Harmonized System updates to better track the movement of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste). Heading 8549 covers electrical and electronic waste and scrap. Subheading 8549.12 specifically applies to waste and scrap of primary cells, primary batteries, and electric accumulators that contain lead, cadmium, or mercury, but excludes lead-acid accumulators. The classification is based on the chemical composition of the waste and its status as "spent" or scrap material no longer fit for its original purpose. This code is essential for compliance with the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal.

Products Included

• Spent nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries
• Waste mercury-oxide button cells
• Scrap alkaline batteries containing mercury
• Spent primary cells containing hazardous heavy metals
• Mixed battery scrap containing cadmium or mercury

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with HS code 8549.11, which is specifically for waste and scrap of lead-acid accumulators (like car batteries). Another error involves using 8548.00, which was the older heading for battery waste but has been largely superseded or narrowed by the introduction of 8549. Importers must ensure they distinguish between hazardous batteries (8549.12) and non-hazardous battery waste (8549.19).

FAQ

What is the HS code for hazardous battery waste?

The HS code for hazardous battery waste containing cadmium, mercury, or lead (excluding lead-acid) is 8549.12.

Does this code include lithium-ion battery waste?

If the lithium-ion waste does not contain lead, cadmium, or mercury, it is typically classified under 8549.19 (other battery waste) rather than 8549.12.