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Abfallschlüssel
On disposal documentation, weighing slips and invoices from disposal companies, a six-digit number appears next to each item. This is the waste code. It helps determine which obligations apply to you as a waste producer. Here you will learn how the code is structured and which numbers are common for old IT devices.
In brief
A waste code is a six-digit identification number from the Waste Catalogue Ordinance (AVV) that unambiguously designates each type of waste. The digits indicate origin and type of waste, an asterisk marks hazardous waste. When disposing of IT hardware, the waste code determines which disposal routes are permitted and what documentation must be kept.
How is a waste code structured?
The AVV transposes the European Waste Catalogue into German law. Caution, risk of confusion: in data protection, AVV stands for the data processing agreement (Auftragsverarbeitungsvertrag). In waste law, it always means the Waste Catalogue Ordinance.
The catalogue is divided into 20 chapters, mostly by the origin of the waste. Each code consists of three pairs of digits:
- Digits 1–2: Chapter, for example 16 "Wastes not otherwise specified in the catalogue" or 20 "Municipal wastes".
- Digits 3–4: Group within the chapter, for example 16 02 "Wastes from electrical and electronic equipment".
- Digits 5–6: the specific type of waste.
An asterisk (*) after the number marks a hazardous waste. There are often pairs consisting of a hazardous and a non-hazardous entry for the same type of waste, so-called mirror entries. Which one applies depends on whether hazardous components are present.
Typical waste codes for old IT devices
| Waste code | Designation (abridged) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| 16 02 14 | Used devices without hazardous components | Many laptops, PCs, servers, network equipment from commercial use |
| 16 02 13* | Used devices with hazardous components | For example older CRT monitors |
| 16 02 16 | Components removed from used devices | Removed assemblies without hazardous substances |
| 16 02 15* | Hazardous components removed from discarded equipment | Removed parts containing pollutants |
| 16 06 05 | Other batteries and accumulators | Removed batteries, depending on type |
| 20 01 36 / 20 01 35* | Used electrical equipment from municipal waste | Devices from households and comparable sources |
The assignment in individual cases is made by the waste producer, in practice usually together with the disposal company. The two most common codes are explained in the entry Waste codes 16 02 14 and 16 02 13* in more detail.
What the code means for your obligations
Stricter rules apply to hazardous waste: it must not be mixed with other waste, and documentation via the electronic waste documentation procedure (eANV) is often required. For non-hazardous waste, a simple Disposal certificate or weighing slip is often enough. Keep these records – they show that your old devices were properly recovered.
Important: not every retired device is waste. Devices that are resold or reused generally do not count as waste as long as there is no intention to dispose of them. They then do not need a waste code. What a certified waste management company must deliver is described in our guide Certified waste management company. This entry explains terms and does not replace legal advice.
Waste codes at Second IT
Second IT is a certified waste management company under § 56 KrWG. Devices that can no longer be refurbished are recovered professionally, hazardous components such as batteries are disposed of separately. You receive recycling and disposal documentation that you can also use for your CSR and ESG reporting. More on professional IT disposal.
Frequently asked questions about the waste code
Which waste code do old computers have?
Commercially used computers without hazardous components are often classified as 16 02 14. If devices contain hazardous components, 16 02 13* comes into consideration. Devices from households mostly fall under chapter 20. You clarify the exact classification with your disposal company.
What does the asterisk on the waste code mean?
The asterisk marks hazardous waste. Stricter obligations apply to it, such as a ban on mixing and, in many cases, documentation via the electronic waste documentation procedure.
What does the AVV have to do with waste?
In waste law, AVV stands for the Waste Catalogue Ordinance (Abfallverzeichnis-Verordnung). It contains all waste codes. In data protection, the same abbreviation means data processing agreement – a completely different term.
Where do I find the waste code for my old devices?
It appears next to each item on disposal documentation, weighing slips and invoices from the disposal company. The assignment in individual cases is made by the waste producer, in practice usually together with the disposal company. Keep these records.
Do I need a waste code for a resold device?
As a rule, no. Devices that are resold or reused mostly do not count as waste as long as there is no intention to dispose of them. You then do not need a waste code.
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