HS Code for Plastic scrap

HS code 3915.90 is utilized for the classification of waste, parings, and scrap of plastics that do not fall under the specific categories of ethylene, styrene, or vinyl chloride polymers. Heading 3915 is reserved for plastic materials that are either broken, worn, or otherwise unusable for their original purpose, or are residual scrap from manufacturing processes. Subheading 3915.90 acts as a residual category for a wide variety of technical plastics. This includes scrap from engineering plastics like polycarbonates, polyamides (nylon), and acrylics. The classification requires that the material be in a form that is only suitable for the recovery of the plastic or for use as waste. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, this heading includes waste consisting of a single thermoplastic material or of mixed plastic materials. If the plastic has been processed into primary forms such as pellets, granules, or powders through a recycling process that makes them ready for use as raw materials, they may no longer qualify as scrap and could be classified under headings 3901 through 3914. Proper documentation of the source and the state of the material is essential for customs clearance under this code, as many jurisdictions have strict environmental regulations regarding the transboundary movement of plastic waste.

Products Included

• Mixed plastic scrap from industrial manufacturing
• Waste parings of polycarbonate sheets
• Scrap of acrylic (PMMA) from signage production
• Worn-out plastic articles intended for material recovery
• Nylon fiber waste from textile manufacturing processes

Common Misclassification

Plastic scrap is often misclassified under HS codes 3901 through 3914. These codes are for plastics in primary forms (granules, pellets, flakes). If the scrap has been reground into a uniform pelletized shape, it is often considered a primary form rather than waste. Furthermore, scrap of ethylene polymers must be classified under 3915.10, styrene polymers under 3915.20, and vinyl chloride polymers under 3915.30. Using 3915.90 for these specific materials is a common compliance error.

FAQ

What is the HS code for plastic scrap?

The HS code for plastic scrap of materials other than ethylene, styrene, or vinyl chloride is 3915.90. Specific polymers have their own subheadings under 3915.

Can recycled plastic pellets be classified under 3915.90?

Generally, no. Once plastic waste is processed into pellets or granules of a uniform shape for use as a raw material, it is classified in primary forms under headings 3901-3914.