HS Code 8549
Electrical and Electronic Waste and Scrap
HS code 8549 covers electrical and electronic waste and scrap (e-waste), including spent primary cells, batteries, and circuits for resource recovery.
4-digit Section XVIBulk Hazmat 9
HS Code 8549 — Electrical and Electronic Waste and Scrap
This code covers all forms of electronic waste (e-waste). It includes discarded computers, mobile phones, batteries, and spent printed circuit boards intended for recovery of metals or other recycling processes.
What's included
- Waste printed circuit boards
- Spent lithium-ion batteries
- Discarded mobile phones for scrap
- Used CRT glass scrap
- Electronic scrap containing precious metals
What's excluded
- Refurbished electronics → use
8517(If the device is functional or for resale as a device, it retains its original product code.)
Common examples
- Bailed electronic circuit boards
- Discarded laptop motherboards
- Used alkaline batteries for recycling
- Broken LED screens for recovery
Frequently asked questions
Is a used phone always e-waste?
No. If the phone is intended for reuse or refurbishment, it stays in 8517. It is only 8549 if it is intended for scrap or recovery.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0%
- Documentation: Highly regulated via the Basel Convention. Requires hazardous waste transit permits for most international movements.
- Typical shipping mode: Bulk
- Top exporters: USA, Germany, United Kingdom
- Top importers: Belgium, Japan, South Korea
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Strictly monitored category for recycling and environmental compliance; requires detailed waste permits.
Related HS codes
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