HS Code for Non-hazardous battery scrap

Non-hazardous battery scrap is classified under HS code 8549.13, a category introduced in the 2022 HS nomenclature updates to better manage electrical and electronic waste. Heading 8549 covers electrical and electronic waste and scrap. Subheading 8549.13 is specifically designated for waste and scrap of primary cells, primary batteries, and electric accumulators that have been sorted by chemical type and, crucially, do not contain lead, cadmium, or mercury. This classification relies on the chemical composition of the scrap. If the batteries are spent, damaged, or otherwise unusable and are being traded for recycling or metal recovery, they fall under this heading. The "non-hazardous" designation is verified by the absence of the heavy metals mentioned in the higher-priority subheadings of 8549. This code is vital for environmental compliance and tracking the international movement of recyclable materials.

Products Included

• Spent lithium-ion battery scrap (sorted)
• Alkaline battery waste (mercury-free)
• Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery scrap
• Zinc-carbon battery waste, sorted
• Lithium polymer battery scrap

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with 8549.11, which is specifically for lead-acid battery waste and scrap. It is also distinct from 8549.12, which covers battery scrap containing cadmium or mercury. Another common error is using 8549.14, which is the code for unsorted battery waste. If the scrap consists of mixed battery types that have not been separated by chemistry, 8549.14 must be used instead of 8549.13. Proper sorting is a prerequisite for this specific classification.

FAQ

What is the HS code for non-hazardous battery scrap?

The HS code for sorted waste and scrap of primary cells and batteries not containing lead, cadmium, or mercury is 8549.13.

Does this include lead-acid batteries?

No, lead-acid battery scrap is classified under HS code 8549.11 due to its lead content and different recycling requirements.