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76
Tariff Chapter 76
Aluminium waste and scrap
What does heading 7602 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 7602 covers aluminium waste and scrap. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. It is widely used in construction, transport, aerospace, packaging and electronics. Aluminium alloys (e.g. 6000, 7000 series) combine lightness with high strength. Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Heading 7602 is part of Chapter 76 (base metals and metal products) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 7602 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 7602 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 7602
Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Aluminium and aluminium products are subject to the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) - from 2026, importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to CO2 emissions associated with aluminium production. Import may be subject to anti-dumping duties on aluminium products from certain countries. Import of aluminium waste and scrap is subject to CBAM - reporting of CO2 emissions from aluminium production is required. Check whether anti-dumping duties apply to aluminium products from the given country. Documentation must include the aluminium alloy grade and chemical composition. Aluminium products for food contact must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. When importing goods under heading 7602 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 7602 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).
Classification of goods under heading 7602 - key considerations
Heading 7602 covers aluminium waste and scrap. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. Distinction from 7601 (unwrought aluminium, including non-alloy) and 7603 (aluminium powders and flakes) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Decisive factor: precise determination of base material, processing stage and end-use of the product.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU customs duty rates for aluminium waste and scrap under heading 7602?
EU duty rates for aluminium waste and scrap under heading 7602 are 0% across all CN subheadings. This zero-duty treatment applies to both production waste (turnings, shavings, machining scrap) and post-consumer scrap (used cans, profiles, cables destined for remelting). Aluminium scrap is a valuable secondary raw material for the recycling industry. Imports must comply with the EU Waste Shipment Regulation requirements for cross-border movement of waste materials. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and regulations apply to importing aluminium scrap into the EU?
Aluminium waste and scrap imports require a customs declaration with CN code (heading 7602), commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and environmental documentation compliant with the EU Waste Shipment Regulation (Regulation 1013/2006). Notification to the competent environmental authorities is required. Aluminium is subject to CBAM, though secondary scrap may have a more favourable emission profile. A composition analysis certificate (aluminium content, contaminants) is essential. Radioactively contaminated materials are subject to separate regulations. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply to aluminium scrap imports - sorting, transport, and controls?
Aluminium scrap requires proper sorting and preparation before transport - separation from other metals and non-metallic materials. Transport is by container or loose in bulk carriers. Customs inspection includes verification of material composition, contamination levels, and declaration compliance. Customs authorities may conduct radiological screening to exclude radioactive contamination. Transboundary waste shipment regulations must be observed and appropriate environmental permits obtained before shipment. This applies to goods classified under heading 7602 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Aluminium waste and scrap" and see the full import cost.CBAM CalculatorCalculate the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) fee for CO2 emissions linked to your import.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Aluminium waste and scrap" with all costs included.
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