E-Waste Mercury Tilt Switches
Scrap mercury tilt switches salvaged from old thermostats and electrical appliances are covered by tariff item 8549.91.00 because they are electrical components containing mercury. These switches are considered hazardous e-waste and have recycling value for mercury recovery. The item specifically lists mercury-switches as covered goods.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
| Origin Country | MFN Tariff | Surtaxes | Total Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇳China | Free | — | Free |
| 🇲🇽Mexico | Free | — | Free |
| 🇺🇸United States | Free | — | Free |
| 🇩🇪Germany | Free | — | Free |
| 🇯🇵Japan | Free | — | Free |
More Specific Codes
This product may fall under a more specific subheading:
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If the switches are removed from the waste stream and sold as functional components.
The waste definition excludes articles that are still usable for their original purpose.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right tariff item — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Package the switches in leak-proof containers to prevent mercury release during transport
• You may need a permit under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act for importing mercury-containing waste
• Clearly label the shipment as hazardous waste and provide a manifest
Related Products under Tariff item 8549.91.00
Broken CRT Television Glass Waste
Broken glass from dismantled cathode-ray tube (CRT) televisions, including the panel and funnel portions, is considered activated glass waste due to lead and phosphor coatings. This material falls under tariff item 8549.91.00 as it is electrical and electronic waste containing glass from cathode-ray tubes. It is typically processed into frit for manufacturing new tubes or for other glass recycling applications.
Cadmium-Containing Electrical Connectors Scrap
Waste electrical connectors from aerospace or military electronics that have cadmium plating are covered by tariff item 8549.91.00 because they are electrical components containing cadmium. These connectors are typically recovered for precious metal refining, but their cadmium content makes them hazardous e-waste. The item applies regardless of whether the connectors are still attached to other components or are loose scrap.
CRT Monitor Glass Scrap
Glass cullet recovered from dismantled cathode-ray tube monitors is classified as activated glass waste under tariff item 8549.91.00. This glass contains phosphor coatings and may have lead content, making it hazardous e-waste. The material is often recycled into new glass products or used in construction materials after proper treatment.
Discarded NiCd Rechargeable Battery Packs
Discarded nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery packs from power tools and cordless phones are electric accumulators containing cadmium, a hazardous substance. These spent batteries are classified under tariff item 8549.91.00 as electrical and electronic waste. They are typically recycled to recover cadmium and nickel.
Lead-Acid Battery Scrap from UPS Systems
Used lead-acid electric accumulators from uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) are classified under tariff item 8549.91.00 as electrical and electronic waste containing lead. These spent batteries are common in data center recycling streams and are hazardous due to their lead content. They are typically recycled for lead smelting.
Lead Glass from CRT Rear Assemblies
Funnel glass sections from cathode-ray tubes, which contain lead for radiation shielding, are activated glass waste under tariff item 8549.91.00. This glass is specifically covered by the item's reference to glass from cathode-ray tubes. It is often recycled into radiation shielding materials or new glass products.