7204.21.00.00 - Of stainless steel

This HTS category, 7204.21.00.00, specifically covers waste and scrap derived from alloy steel, with a particular focus on materials where stainless steel is the predominant component or characteristic. This includes various forms of discarded stainless steel, such as shredded pieces, turnings, borings, filings, and fragmented items that are intended for remelting and reprocessing. The key defining factor for classification under this heading is the composition of the alloy steel, requiring a significant presence of elements like chromium, nickel, and molybdenum that impart stainless properties.

In contrast to its sibling category, 7204.29.00.00 ("Other"), which encompasses waste and scrap of alloy steel that is not primarily composed of stainless steel, this subheading isolates materials where stainless steel is the defining characteristic. This distinction is crucial for customs purposes as it reflects the different processing requirements and potential end-uses of these materials, often influenced by the specific alloying elements present in stainless steel.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 7204.21.00.00 is determined solely by the material's origin (waste and scrap of iron or steel) and its specific composition (alloy steel, predominantly stainless steel). Importers and exporters should ensure that documentation clearly reflects the stainless steel nature of the alloy scrap to facilitate accurate customs clearance.