Product classification
HS code for Scrap tires: 4012.20
Rubber, used pneumatic tyres.
Classification of scrap tires under HS 4012.20
The classification of scrap tires under HS code 401220 is determined by the physical state and the intended subsequent use of the product. This code specifically refers to used pneumatic tires. In the context of international trade, scrap tires often fall into this category if they maintain their basic structural integrity as a tire, even if they are worn beyond the point of safe use on vehicles. The Harmonized System distinguishes between tires that can be reused or retreaded and those that are destined for complete destruction or reclamation of rubber. If the tires are intended for retreading or are being sold as used tires for secondary markets, 401220 is the appropriate heading. However, if the tires have been cut, shredded, or ground into powder, they lose their character as tires and are instead classified as rubber waste. Proper classification is essential for environmental compliance and to ensure that the shipment meets the regulatory standards for waste movement across international borders.
- Covers
- Used passenger car tires
- Used truck and bus tires
- Used aircraft pneumatic tires
- Used motorcycle tires
- Tires suitable for retreading
- Also under 4012.20
- Michelin (tire recycling programs)
- Bridgestone (tire recycling programs)
- Liberty Tire Recycling
- Genan
- Ecore International
Codes often confused with 4012.20
Common mistake. Scrap tires are frequently misclassified under HS code 400400. While 400400 covers waste, parings, and scrap of rubber, it is specifically intended for rubber that has been reduced to powder, granules, or pieces that are no longer recognizable as tires. Another common error is using 401211 through 401219, which are reserved for tires that have already undergone the retreading process.
Top exporters and importers of HS 401220 (the code used for scrap tires), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 401220 (the code used for scrap tires) in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 21% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Thailand, with 19% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 401220, not only scrap tires.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Japan $109M 21% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $55M 11% of world exports
- 3 Spain $44M 8.5% of world exports
World total: $516M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Thailand $109M 19% of world imports
- 2 Germany $41M 7.2% of world imports
- 3 France $37M 6.6% of world imports
World total: $561M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for scrap tires
Brazil classifies scrap tires under NCM 4012.20.00: HS 4012.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.
Questions about scrap tires
What is the HS code for Scrap tires?
The HS code for Scrap tires is 401220 (Rubber; used pneumatic tyres). The HS code for used pneumatic tires, often referred to as scrap tires, is 401220.
How do I classify Scrap tires for customs?
Scrap tires is classified under HS code 401220 — Rubber; used pneumatic tyres. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can shredded tires use this code?
No, shredded tires or tire crumb should generally be classified under HS code 400400, as they have been processed into rubber waste and are no longer pneumatic tires.
Which countries are the top exporters of scrap tires (HS 401220)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 401220 (the code used for scrap tires) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($109M, 21% of world exports), the Netherlands ($55M) and Spain ($44M). World exports came to about $516M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of scrap tires (HS 401220)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 401220 (the code used for scrap tires) in UN Comtrade data were Thailand ($109M, 19% of world imports), Germany ($41M) and France ($37M). World imports came to about $561M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Scrap tires the same in all countries?
The base HS code 401220 for Scrap tires is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for scrap tires in Brazil?
In Brazil, scrap tires (HS 401220) is classified under NCM 4012.20.00.