Chromium scrap may contain residual hexavalent chromium, which is a listed hazardous substance under US environmental law. Depending on its form and concentration, the material could be subject to EPA RCRA hazardous-waste import provisions, which require notification and may restrict entry. Importers should conduct a hazardous-waste determination before shipment and consult both a customs broker and environmental counsel.

The key distinction is whether the material retains its original use or has been rendered fit only for remelting and recovery of the metal. Scrap typically presents as irregular pieces, turnings, borings, or crushed material with no identifiable end-use form. If the material still has a recognizable shape and could be used as an article, it may be classified as a wrought product rather than scrap. Supporting documentation such as a scrap certification or a description of the generating process helps establish the correct classification.