Finely divided magnesium — including turnings, chips, and borings — is classified as a flammable solid or pyrophoric material under DOT and IMDG regulations (UN 1869 for magnesium alloy pellets/turnings, or UN 1418 for magnesium powder). Shipments must be properly packaged, labeled, and accompanied by dangerous goods declarations. Importers should confirm the particle size and moisture content with the supplier, as these factors determine the precise hazard classification and packaging group.

Remelters pay a premium for scrap that is segregated by alloy designation (e.g., AZ91 versus AM60) because it can be remelted with minimal chemistry adjustment. Mixed or unknown-alloy scrap requires additional analytical testing and alloying additions to bring the melt into specification, increasing processing cost and reducing the price a remelter will offer. Exporters and importers who can provide alloy certification and maintain segregation through the logistics chain capture meaningfully better returns.