HS Code for Waste anti-freeze

Waste anti-freeze is classified under HS code 3825.50, which specifically addresses residual products of the chemical or allied industries. This classification is part of Chapter 38, covering miscellaneous chemical products. The code 3825.50 is designated for wastes of metal pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, and anti-freeze fluids. The primary reason for this classification is that the product is no longer suitable for its intended use as a cooling or de-icing agent and is being transported for disposal, recycling, or recovery. Unlike virgin anti-freeze, which is classified based on its chemical composition as a prepared fluid, waste anti-freeze is categorized by its status as a residual byproduct. This ensures that environmental and safety regulations regarding the movement of chemical waste are properly monitored through the Harmonized System. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the waste is destined for a landfill or a specialized recycling facility that will attempt to reclaim the glycol content.

Products Included

• Spent ethylene glycol-based engine coolants
• Contaminated propylene glycol solutions
• Used industrial heat transfer fluids
• Residual de-icing fluids collected from runways or aircraft
• Mixtures of water and anti-freeze chemicals from radiator flushing

Common Misclassification

A frequent error is classifying waste anti-freeze under HS code 3820.00. While 3820.00 covers anti-freezing preparations and prepared de-icing fluids, it is strictly reserved for new, unused products. Another common misclassification occurs with HS code 2710.91, which covers waste oils containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). If the anti-freeze is heavily contaminated with engine oil, shippers might mistakenly use Chapter 27 codes, but 3825.50 remains the specific designation for the chemical fluid itself.

FAQ

What is the HS code for waste anti-freeze?

The correct HS code for waste anti-freeze is 3825.50.

Does this code apply to recycled anti-freeze?

If the anti-freeze has been fully processed and restored to original specifications, it may return to 3820.00; however, while it remains in a waste or "to-be-processed" state, 3825.50 is the appropriate code.