HS Code for Unsorted paper waste
Unsorted paper waste is classified under HS code 4707.90. This classification falls within Chapter 47, which covers pulp of wood or of other fibrous cellulosic material, as well as recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard. Heading 4707 is specifically designated for recovered paper and paperboard. The subheading 4707.90 is a residual category used for waste and scrap that has not been sorted into the specific categories defined in 4707.10 through 4707.30. This includes mixed municipal collections, unsorted office waste, and various types of paper scrap that contain a mixture of different fibers (such as kraft, chemical, and mechanical pulp). The classification is based on the lack of homogeneity in the material. If the waste consists of a mixture of different types of paper that would individually fall under different subheadings, and they have not been separated, 4707.90 is the correct designation according to the General Rules of Interpretation.
Products Included
- Mixed municipal paper waste
- Unsorted office paper scrap
- Mixed paper and paperboard scrap
- Unsorted magazines and newspapers mixed with other paper
- General recovered paper waste n.e.c.
Common Misclassification
Unsorted paper waste is frequently misclassified under 4707.10, 4707.20, or 4707.30. Code 4707.10 is strictly for unbleached kraft paper or corrugated paperboard. Code 4707.20 is for paper made mainly of bleached chemical pulp not colored in the mass. Code 4707.30 is for paper made mainly of mechanical pulp (e.g., newspapers and journals). If a shipment contains a mix of these without sorting, it must be placed in 4707.90. Misclassification often occurs when exporters attempt to use a more specific code for a mixed load to satisfy buyer requirements or lower duty rates.
FAQ
What is the HS code for unsorted paper waste?
The HS code for unsorted paper waste and scrap is 4707.90.
Does this code include shredded paper?
Yes, if the shredded paper is a mixture of various types of paper and has not been sorted by pulp type, it is classified under 4707.90.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Unsorted paper waste?
The HS code for Unsorted paper waste is 470790 (Paper or paperboard; waste and scrap, of paper or paperboard n.e.c. in heading no. 4707 and of unsorted waste and scrap).
How do I classify Unsorted paper waste for customs?
Unsorted paper waste is classified under HS code 470790 — Paper or paperboard; waste and scrap, of paper or paperboard n.e.c. in heading no. 4707 and of unsorted waste and scrap. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Unsorted paper waste the same in all countries?
The base HS code 470790 for Unsorted paper waste is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.