Used scrap

Buyers must distinguish between Ferrous (iron-containing) and Non-Ferrous (aluminum, copper, brass) metals. For copper, ensure the grade is specified, such as Berry (No. 1 Bright Bare Copper Wire) or Birch (No. 2 Copper). For aluminum, common grades include Tense (mixed cast) or Taint/Tabor (clean sheet). Always request a chemical composition analysis (XRF test) to verify purity levels and ensure the impurity threshold is below 1-2% to avoid processing penalties.

Plastic scrap (PET, HDPE, LDPE) must be categorized by form (bales, regrind, or flakes) and color (clear, natural, or mixed). The most critical technical factor is the Melt Flow Index (MFI) and the absence of PVC contamination, which can ruin recycling machinery. Ensure the supplier provides a moisture content report, as high moisture increases weight and shipping costs while decreasing material value.

Scrap is heavily regulated under the Basel Convention to prevent illegal hazardous waste movement. Buyers must ensure the supplier provides a CCIC (China Certification & Inspection Group) certificate for goods destined for China, or equivalent pre-shipment inspections for other regions. Verify that the scrap is not classified as 'Hazardous Waste' under the destination country's environmental laws to avoid customs seizure or heavy fines.

Calculate the Yield Recovery Rate—the actual amount of usable material after processing. A low unit price often masks high slag or waste content. Use London Metal Exchange (LME) or Platts indices as a pricing benchmark. Professional buyers should negotiate based on a percentage of the LME spot price (e.g., 90% of LME) rather than a fixed price to hedge against market volatility.

The most prevalent risk is 'Material Substitution' or 'Weight Loading', where suppliers place high-quality scrap at the container door but fill the back with dirt, rocks, or low-grade waste. To mitigate this, always hire a reputable third-party inspector (like SGS or Intertek) to supervise the loading process and apply tamper-evident seals to the container.

Avoid 100% T/T advance payments. The industry standard for secure cross-border scrap trade is a Letter of Credit (L/C) at sight or Escrow services. For new suppliers found on Made-in-China.com, utilize their Secured Trading Service to ensure funds are only released after the Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI) report is approved and the Bill of Lading (B/L) is issued.

Scrap is dense and can easily exceed container weight limits. Ensure the supplier uses heavy-duty 20ft containers rather than 40ft to avoid overweight surcharges. For metal turnings or oily scrap, ensure the packaging prevents leakage of hazardous fluids, which can lead to environmental cleanup fines from shipping lines.

Many countries, particularly China, have implemented strict 'Green Fence' or 'National Sword' policies that ban certain types of solid waste. Before ordering, check the Harmonized System (HS) Code against the destination country's Import Prohibited List. Ensure all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or equivalent permits are active before the vessel departs the loading port.