Steel Mill Scale

Mill scale is the flaky surface of hot-rolled steel formed during manufacture, classified as scalings and waste from iron or steel production under HTS 2619.00.90.00. It consists primarily of iron oxides and is often recycled for iron recovery. This waste product falls outside granulated slag, fitting the 'other' category.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+35.0%35%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

2620.99Lower: 10% vs 35%

If used industrially for metal extraction or chemical compounds

Heading 2620 covers slag, ash, and residues specifically for metal recovery or chemical manufacture, unlike general waste in 2619.

7204.41.00Same rate: 35%

If processed into ferrous waste/scrap for melting

Remelted or processed iron/steel waste shifts to Chapter 72 as scrap, not raw manufacturing waste.

2618.00.00Same rate: 35%

If granulated or from specific high-temperature processes

Granulated slag from iron/steel making falls under 2618, distinct from non-granulated scalings.

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Import Tips & Compliance

Verify the material is genuine mill scale from hot-rolling processes with lab assays to confirm iron oxide content and avoid misclassification

Provide documentation proving it's waste from iron/steel manufacture, not processed or granulated slag

Check for hazardous classifications if containing oils or contaminants; ensure compliance with environmental import regulations