HS Code for Spent lead-acid batteries

Spent lead-acid batteries are classified under HS code 8549.11. This classification was established to specifically address the growing trade in electrical and electronic waste and scrap. Heading 8549 was introduced in the 2022 HS nomenclature to consolidate various types of electrical waste that were previously scattered across different chapters. Subheading 8549.11 is dedicated to waste and scrap of primary cells, primary batteries, and electric accumulators, specifically those of the lead-acid type. To fall under this code, the batteries must be "spent," meaning they are exhausted, worn out, or otherwise unfit for their original purpose and are typically intended for the recovery of lead or for disposal. This classification is vital for compliance with international environmental treaties like the Basel Convention. The classification follows GIR 1, as the heading text explicitly describes waste and scrap of electric accumulators. It is distinct from functional used batteries, which might still be classified as articles under 8507 if they are being sold for reuse rather than as scrap.

Products Included

• Used lead-acid car batteries intended for recycling
• Spent industrial lead-acid accumulators
• Scrap lead-acid batteries from uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
• Damaged or leaking lead-acid battery cells
• Waste lead-acid batteries from telecommunications equipment

Common Misclassification

Before 2022, these were often classified under 8548.10, but that code has been deleted in many jurisdictions in favor of the 8549 series. Another common misclassification is 7802.00, which covers lead waste and scrap. While lead-acid batteries contain lead, they are complex assemblies of lead, plastic, and acid, and the specific heading for battery waste (8549.11) takes precedence over the general metal scrap heading (7802.00) per GIR 3(a).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Spent lead-acid batteries?

The HS code for spent (waste and scrap) lead-acid batteries is 8549.11.

Are functional used batteries classified here?

No, if a lead-acid battery is still functional and intended for reuse rather than recovery of materials or disposal, it should be classified under HS code 8507.10.