CBP generally looks at whether the material has lost its original identity and utility and is destined for reprocessing or recycling rather than direct use. Supporting documentation such as mill certifications, purchase contracts specifying scrap grade, and processing facility records can help establish the correct classification. Consulting a licensed customs broker is advisable when the line between scrap and a usable article is ambiguous.

Yes. Certain waste streams — particularly hazardous wastes — are regulated by the EPA under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and may require import consent procedures under the Basel Convention framework. Non-hazardous industrial scrap generally faces fewer restrictions, but documentation demonstrating the material's intended recycling use is still recommended to avoid admissibility issues at the port of entry.