8549.12.40.00 - For recovery of lead

This HTS classification, 8549.12.40.00, specifically covers waste and scrap materials from primary cells, primary batteries, and electric accumulators that are intended for the recovery of lead. This includes materials such as spent lead-acid batteries, lead battery plates, and other lead-containing scrap derived from these electrical power sources, where the primary objective of their importation or exportation is the extraction and recycling of lead. The defining characteristic is the presence of lead in a form that makes its recovery economically viable or technically feasible.

This category is distinct from its sibling, 8549.12.80.00, which is designated for "Other" waste and scrap of primary cells, batteries, and accumulators containing lead, cadmium, or mercury. While both categories deal with lead-bearing waste, 8549.12.40.00 is narrowly defined for lead recovery purposes, implying a specific intention and potential processing direction. The "Other" category would encompass lead-bearing waste materials that do not meet the specific criteria for lead recovery or where the primary recovery objective is for other metals or materials, or where the lead content is incidental.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories to introduce. Classification under 8549.12.40.00 hinges on the material's composition, its origin from primary cells, batteries, or accumulators, and the explicit purpose of lead recovery. Importers and exporters must be prepared to demonstrate this intended use, potentially through documentation or evidence of planned recycling processes.