HS Code for Unbleached kraft waste

Unbleached kraft waste is classified under HS code 4707.10. This code is part of Chapter 47, which covers pulp of wood and other fibrous cellulosic material, including waste and scrap of paper or paperboard. The classification 4707.10 specifically targets waste and scrap of unbleached kraft paper or paperboard, or corrugated paper or paperboard. To qualify for this code, the material must be recovered (waste) paper and must consist primarily of unbleached fibers. This is a critical distinction in the recycling industry, as unbleached kraft (often referred to as OCC or Old Corrugated Containers) has different processing requirements and value compared to bleached or sorted office paper. The classification is determined by the chemical nature of the pulp used to create the original paper and the fact that it has not undergone a bleaching process.

Products Included

• Old Corrugated Containers (OCC)
• Unbleached kraft paper trimmings
• Scrap unbleached kraft grocery bags
• Waste unbleached multi-wall sacks
• Unbleached linerboard scrap

Common Misclassification

This product is frequently misclassified under 4707.20, which is for waste of paper made mainly of bleached chemical pulp not colored in the mass. It is also sometimes confused with 4707.90, the "other" category. The distinction lies in the "unbleached" and "kraft" characteristics; if the waste contains significant amounts of bleached paper or non-kraft fibers, it may be pushed into the 4707.90 category.

FAQ

What is the HS code for OCC (Old Corrugated Containers)?

OCC is primarily classified under HS code 4707.10 as unbleached kraft and corrugated paper waste.

Can printed kraft paper be classified here?

Yes, as long as the substrate is unbleached kraft paper, the presence of printing does not typically remove it from 4707.10, provided it is being traded as waste for recovery.