Unstabilized Activated Sludge
Biological sludge from activated aeration basins in municipal sewage treatment, containing microorganisms and unsettled solids. HTS 3825.20.00.00 applies as unstabilized sludge from urban effluent plants per chapter note, prior to any stabilization for land application.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If predominantly municipal solid waste, not sludge
Municipal waste (trash/recyclables) is separately classified in 3825.10, distinct from liquid/semi-solid sewage sludge.
If from pharmaceutical manufacturing wastewater
Antisera/vaccines wastes from medical processes may qualify as clinical waste under 3825.30 or Chapter 30 if pharmaceutical-focused.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Include microbial activity and stabilization status lab reports; secure waste management facility acceptance letters pre-import; monitor moisture content to prevent spontaneous combustion during transit
Related Products under HTS 3825.20.00.00
Municipal Sewage Sludge
Sludge generated from urban wastewater treatment plants prior to stabilization, containing organic matter, pathogens, and solids from household and industrial effluents. Classified under HTS 3825.20.00.00 as 'sewage sludge' per chapter note defining it as arising from urban effluent treatment plants, including pre-treatment waste and unstabilized sludge.
Primary Sewage Sludge from Urban Plants
Untreated primary solids settled from municipal wastewater influent, rich in organic and inorganic particulates. Falls under HTS 3825.20.00.00 as pre-treatment waste from urban effluent treatment plants, explicitly included in the chapter note definition of sewage sludge.
Scourings from Sewage Treatment
Grit, rags, and debris scourings removed during preliminary treatment of urban wastewater. Covered by HTS 3825.20.00.00 under chapter note including 'scourings' as part of sewage sludge from effluent plants.
Urban Effluent Pre-Treatment Sludge
Sludge from physio-chemical pre-treatment stages of municipal sewage, including coagulant precipitates. HTS 3825.20.00.00 per chapter note explicitly naming 'pre-treatment waste' from urban effluent plants as sewage sludge.