U.S. exports of Aluminum Waste and Scrap (SITC 28823) totaled $549.0M in August 2026.
Importers of Aluminum Waste and Scrap paid $172K in duties in August 2026, an average duty rate of 0.04% — duty actually collected as a share of the imports that cleared customs, not the published tariff schedule. Aluminum Waste and Scrap imports of $452.7M in August 2026 ran 26% above the year-to-date monthly average of $360.2M.
Last updated: August 2026 dataRecovered aluminum scrap is a critical secondary raw material for smelters, die casters, and rolling mills, where it competes directly with primary aluminum on energy cost grounds. Classification hinges on alloy composition, form (turnings, borings, ingot-grade bales), and whether the material meets the Basel Convention's definitions for non-hazardous recyclable waste, which affects export licensing in supplier countries. Section 232 tariffs apply to aluminum articles broadly, and importers should confirm whether scrap streams fall within any applicable exclusions before entry. Proper sorting and certification of alloy grade are essential for customs valuation and downstream processor acceptance.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
6.9K import shipments a month
Aluminum scrap can fall within the scope of Section 232 tariffs on aluminum imports. Whether a specific scrap stream is covered depends on its HTS classification and any product exclusions that may have been granted. Importers should verify the applicable tariff treatment with a licensed customs broker before shipment.
Mixed-alloy scrap is generally classified based on the predominant metal content and physical form. Customs may require mill certifications or spectrographic analysis to confirm alloy composition, particularly when the material is borderline between aluminum scrap and a more processed aluminum product. Misclassification can result in duty underpayment or admissibility issues.
Basic heading 4 of 239 in section 2
Basic heading 28823 · $549.0M of $7.8B
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Exports · August 2026
destination
India and Thailand together take 40% of it.
customs district
Census does not publish district detail for this classification system.
origin
Census does not publish state detail for this classification system.
entry
Census does not publish port detail for this classification system.
ImportsExports
Imports
$452.7MYoY · free account
Exports
$549.0MYoY · free account
12-mo low · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. imported $3.7B of Aluminum Waste and Scrap and exported $5.8B.
Through August 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.