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Recycling and Resin Code Chart

The seven resin identification codes, the plastic each one stands for, and where each appears in packaging, with the reminder that a code is not a recycling promise.

Ref PK-0211ASTM D7611

Draft, open for review. Check every value against the governing standard and the manufacturer’s data before use.

What it is

The resin identification code tells you what plastic a part is made of. It is a number from 1 to 7 inside a triangle, with letters under it. ASTM D7611 sets the code. Since the 2013 revision, the standard symbol is a solid triangle, not the chasing-arrows recycling symbol, to make clear that the code names the resin and does not say the item is recyclable.

How to identify

Look on the bottom of containers, near the edge of film, or on the side of molded parts.
Read the number inside the triangle.
Read the letters under it.
Match the number to the chart.

Resin codes

Code	Letters	Resin	Common packaging uses
1	PETE or PET	Polyethylene terephthalate	Bottles, clamshells, PET strapping, trays
2	HDPE	High-density polyethylene	Jugs, pails, high-density liners, some mailers
3	V or PVC	Polyvinyl chloride	Blister packs, some shrink film, some clamshells
4	LDPE	Low-density polyethylene, including linear low	Stretch film, poly bags, mailers, liners, bubble wrap
5	PP	Polypropylene	PP strapping, tape backing, containers, woven bags
6	PS	Polystyrene, including expanded	EPS foam, loose fill, trays, cups
7	OTHER	All other resins and blends	Polycarbonate, multilayer films, PLA and other bio-based resins

Key points

The code names the resin. Whether it is recycled depends on local programs and markets.
Multilayer films and mixed materials are usually code 7 even when most of the film is polyethylene.
Film plastics (code 2 and 4) are often not accepted in curbside bins, but are taken at some store drop-off points.
Labels, inks and attached parts made of other materials can make a package harder to recycle.
Customers asking for recycled content or recyclability claims need supplier documentation, not just the code.

Common mistakes

Reading the chasing-arrows symbol as proof that an item is recyclable.
Assuming all code 7 plastics are compostable. Only some are, and only in the right facility.
Mixing up PET (code 1) and PP (code 5) strapping.
Making recyclability claims on packaging without checking the rules that apply.

Governing standards: ASTM D7611 (resin identification coding); applicable environmental marketing claim rules.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.

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