HS Code for Waste brake fluid

Waste brake fluid is classified under HS code 3825.50. This code is situated within Chapter 38, which encompasses miscellaneous chemical products, and specifically falls under the heading for residual products of chemical or allied industries. The classification 3825.50 is explicitly defined to include wastes of metal pickling liquors, hydraulic fluids, brake fluids, and anti-freeze fluids. The logic behind this classification is that once brake fluid has been drained from a vehicle or machinery due to contamination, degradation, or moisture absorption, it loses its functional utility as a prepared hydraulic fluid. Consequently, it is treated as a chemical waste product. This classification is vital for international trade and environmental tracking, as it distinguishes hazardous or non-hazardous chemical waste from commercial-grade chemical preparations. It is important for exporters to note that this code applies to the fluid regardless of its chemical base, provided it is being discarded as waste.

Products Included

• Used glycol-ether based brake fluids (DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5.1)
• Spent silicone-based brake fluids (DOT 5)
• Contaminated hydraulic mineral oils used in braking systems
• Residual fluids from automotive service centers and salvage yards
• Degraded hydraulic transmission fluids classified as waste

Common Misclassification

Waste brake fluid is often misclassified under HS code 3819.00. HS code 3819.00 is intended for hydraulic brake fluids and other prepared liquids for hydraulic transmission that are in a new, usable condition. Additionally, some may attempt to use HS code 2710.99, which is a general category for "other" waste oils. However, because 3825.50 specifically names brake fluids in its description, it takes precedence over the more general waste oil codes in Chapter 27.

FAQ

What is the HS code for waste brake fluid?

The specific HS code for waste brake fluid is 3825.50.

Is there a difference between DOT 3 and DOT 5 waste classification?

No, regardless of the DOT rating or chemical base (glycol or silicone), once the fluid is classified as waste, it falls under 3825.50.