Copper Waste and Scrap

The US tariff schedule splits brass scrap into lines based on whether lead content exceeds 0.3 percent by weight. Red and semi-red brass, yellow clippings, and other yellow brass each have separate 10-digit lines for the over-0.3% and not-over-0.3% lead thresholds, so laboratory analysis of the shipment is essential before filing the entry.

Spent anodes of refined copper (7404003020) and spent anodes under 94 percent copper by weight (7404003045 through 7404003090) are broken out separately from general waste and scrap because their origin in electrorefining processes gives them a distinct composition profile. Importers should confirm copper purity and alloy type before classifying, as misidentifying a spent anode as general scrap—or vice versa—can result in a classification error.

Yes. Depending on composition and prior use, certain copper scrap shipments may be subject to EPA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) rules governing hazardous secondary materials. Importers should evaluate whether the material qualifies as a legitimate scrap commodity or triggers hazardous-waste import restrictions before shipment, and consult a licensed customs broker or environmental compliance counsel for guidance.