HS Code for Polystyrene scrap

Polystyrene scrap is classified under HS code 391520. This code is part of heading 3915, which covers waste, parings, and scrap of plastics. According to the General Rules of Interpretation and the Chapter 39 notes, this heading is intended for plastic materials that are no longer usable for their original purpose due to breakage, wear, or manufacturing defects. Sub-heading 391520 is specific to polymers of styrene. This includes industrial off-cuts, rejected molded parts, and post-consumer polystyrene waste intended for recycling or recovery of chemicals. It is important to note that for material to be classified as scrap, it must generally require further processing (such as grinding or melting) before it can be used in a manufacturing process. If the scrap has already been re-granulated into uniform pellets, its classification may shift back to primary forms.

Products Included

• Broken polystyrene articles for recycling
• Manufacturing waste and parings of polystyrene
• Used polystyrene packaging for material recovery
• Polystyrene shavings and sawdust
• Rejected polystyrene injection-molded components

Common Misclassification

A frequent misclassification occurs when polystyrene scrap is processed into uniform granules or pellets; in such cases, it may be classified under 390319 (Primary forms) instead of 391520. Customs authorities often distinguish between "waste" and "recycled resin" based on the uniformity and cleanliness of the product. Another error is using 391590, which is the "other" category for plastic waste. Since there is a specific sub-heading for styrene polymers (391520), it must be used preferentially over the general 391590 code. Finally, if the scrap is contaminated with other materials (like metal or paper), it may require classification based on the component that gives it its essential character.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Polystyrene scrap?

The HS code for waste, parings, and scrap of polymers of styrene is 391520.

Can I use this code for recycled polystyrene pellets?

Generally, no. If the scrap has been processed into uniform pellets for use as a raw material, it is usually classified under HS code 390319 as a primary form.