Melting scrap

Heavy Melting Scrap (HMS) is categorized by thickness and density. HMS 1 consists of heavy steel scrap with a thickness of ≥ 1/4 inch (6mm), while HMS 2 includes lighter steel with a thickness of ≥ 1/8 inch (3mm). The standard mix is often 80:20 (HMS 1:HMS 2). Buyers must ensure the scrap is free from sealed containers, pressurized cylinders, and radioactive materials to prevent explosions during the melting process.

Quality verification relies on Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI). You should mandate a Chemical Composition Analysis to check for impurities like copper, tin, and phosphorus, which affect the quality of the final steel. A Radioactivity Test Certificate is mandatory to ensure the scrap is not contaminated. For large B2B orders, hiring a third-party agency like SGS or CCIC to oversee the loading and verify the density and cleanliness of the scrap is highly recommended.

Melting scrap is the primary feedstock for Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) and Basic Oxygen Furnaces (BOF). It is used to produce new steel billets, rebars, and structural steel. High-quality scrap reduces energy consumption by up to 75% compared to producing steel from iron ore, making it a critical component for sustainable and green steel manufacturing.

Suppliers must adhere to the ISRI (Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries) specifications, which define the grades and allowable impurities. Furthermore, many countries require an AQSIQ license (for China-bound goods) or similar environmental permits. Ensure the supplier provides a Certificate of Origin and a Non-Hazardous Waste Declaration to comply with the Basel Convention on transboundary movements of hazardous wastes.

The most significant risks include weight discrepancies and 'garbage loading', where the bottom of the container is filled with dirt or low-value waste. To mitigate this, use Made-in-China.com's secured payment services and never pay 100% upfront. Always insist on weighbridge tickets from both the loading port and the discharge port to verify the Net Weight.

For new suppliers, the safest method is a 100% Irrevocable Letter of Credit (L/C) at sight, payable only after the presentation of a clean Bill of Lading and a third-party inspection report. Avoid Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) for the full amount unless the supplier has a high trust rating and verified history on professional platforms like Made-in-China.com.

Scrap is usually shipped in 20ft containers for density or as Bulk Cargo for large volumes. Ensure the contract specifies 'Free Time' at the destination port (ideally 14-21 days) to allow for customs clearance and inspection. Because scrap is heavy, verify that the container weight limits are strictly followed to avoid heavy-lift surcharges or fines at the port of entry.

Many countries impose export duties or quotas on steel scrap to protect domestic industries. Always check the latest export policy of the sourcing country (e.g., EU, India, or SE Asia). Ensure your H.S. Code (typically 7204.49) is correctly declared to avoid anti-dumping duties or customs seizures due to misclassification.