HS Code for Polyethylene scrap

Polyethylene scrap is classified under HS code 3915.10. This heading is specifically reserved for waste, parings, and scrap of plastics made from polymers of ethylene. Classification under 3915 is restricted to materials that are either manufacturing waste (such as offcuts, shavings, or defective batches) or products that are worn out and no longer fit for their original purpose. To be classified here, the material is typically intended for the recovery of the plastic through recycling or for use as a fuel source. The Harmonized System distinguishes between "primary forms" and "waste." If the polyethylene has been processed back into uniform granules or pellets that meet the specifications of virgin material for use in molding or extrusion, it may no longer qualify as scrap and could be moved to primary form headings.

Products Included

• Crushed polyethylene bottle scrap
• Industrial PE film offcuts
• Used PE crates broken for recycling
• Polyethylene shavings and sawdust from machining
• Defective PE molded parts intended for regrinding

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with HS code 3901.10 or 3901.20 (polyethylene in primary forms). If scrap has been cleaned, melted, and pelletized into uniform resin, many customs authorities argue it should be classified as primary form material under 3901. Another error involves 3915.90, which is a catch-all for "other" plastic scrap; however, because ethylene polymers have their own specific subheading (3915.10), that specific code must be used.

FAQ

What is the HS code for polyethylene scrap?

The HS code for waste, parings, and scrap of polyethylene is 3915.10.

Can recycled PE pellets be classified as scrap?

Generally, no. If the scrap has been reprocessed into uniform pellets for manufacturing, it is usually classified under 3901 as a primary form.