SITCSection 2
U.S. exports of stainless steel waste & scrap (SITC 28221) totaled $48.4M in July 2026.
Stainless Steel Waste & Scrap imports of $30.4M in July 2026 ran 18% above the year-to-date monthly average of $25.8M.
Last updated: July 2026 dataStainless steel scrap is a high-value ferrous secondary raw material distinguished by its chromium content (typically 10.5% or higher), which makes it a preferred charge material for electric arc furnace (EAF) melt shops producing stainless and specialty steel grades. Importers should be aware that stainless scrap grades are classified by alloy composition and form — loose, bundled, or shredded — and misclassification between stainless and other alloy scrap categories can trigger duty and trade-remedy complications. Shipments may be subject to Section 232 tariffs depending on origin and applicable exclusions.
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601 shipments/mo
Basic heading 31 of 239 in section 2
Basic heading 28221 · $30.4M of $3.8B
Classification as stainless steel scrap hinges on chromium content — generally 10.5% or more by weight — along with the absence of a tin coating. Customs brokers typically rely on mill certifications or spectrometric analysis to confirm alloy composition and support the correct SITC/HTS classification.
Ferrous scrap, including stainless grades, can fall within the scope of Section 232 steel measures depending on the applicable HTS subheading and the country of origin. Importers should verify current exclusion status and country-specific treatment with a licensed customs broker before shipment.
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Exports · July 2026
destination
India and Thailand together take 59% 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
$30.4MYoY · Pro
Exports
$48.4MYoY · Pro
12-mo low · imports
YoY · ProThrough July 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.