Exporting precious metal scraps from the United Kingdom can be a profitable way to supply global refineries, manufacturers and recyclers with high-value raw materials. With the right export partner, you can turn recovered or surplus materials into a reliable revenue stream while staying compliant with UK and international regulations.

Below, we explain how to export Precious Metal Scraps from the UK, the key compliance points to watch, and how Wigmore Trading can simplify the entire process for you.

Understanding the market for Precious Metal Scraps

Precious metal scraps typically include offcuts, residues and recovered material containing:

• Gold

• Silver

• Platinum group metals (platinum, palladium, rhodium)

• Mixed electronic or industrial scrap containing precious metal content

Demand for these materials is driven by:

• Refiners seeking feedstock for new bullion or industrial alloys

• Electronics recyclers looking for high-yield scrap

• Jewellery and watch manufacturers needing recycled precious metal inputs

Because these materials have high value relative to weight, export Precious Metal Scraps can be very cost-effective, even across long distances, if logistics and documentation are properly managed.

Wigmore Trading works with buyers and processors who specialise in precious metal recycling, helping match UK-origin scrap with trusted international demand.

Why source and export Precious Metal Scraps from the United Kingdom?

The UK is a strong origin market for precious metal scrap thanks to:

• Established jewellery, industrial and electronics sectors

• Strong environmental and recycling regulations, which favour responsible recovery

• Reliable transport and port infrastructure (e.g. London Gateway, Felixstowe, Southampton)

For overseas buyers, this means UK-origin precious metal scraps are often:

• Better documented (source, composition, and test certificates)

• Easier to insure and finance

• More predictable in quality and handling

By partnering with Wigmore Trading, buyers gain access to UK suppliers whose materials and paperwork meet international expectations, reducing the risk of delays or disputes.

Key considerations when you export Precious Metal Scraps

1. Product classification and documentation

Correct classification is essential. Precious metal scraps are usually classified under specific HS (Harmonized System) codes that depend on:

• Type of metal (gold, silver, platinum group)

• Whether the scrap is in powder, granules, clippings or mixed form

• Whether it is clearly for recovery rather than finished products

Why this matters:

• Customs authorities rely on HS codes to apply duties, taxes and controls

• Incorrect classification can lead to inspections, fines, or shipment delays

Wigmore Trading can help ensure your precious metal scraps are correctly described on:

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

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• Any assay or specification certificates

• Export declaration documents

This reduces customs risk both in the UK and at the destination port.

2. Compliance, licences and anti-money laundering checks

Because precious metals are high value and sometimes sensitive, exporters must pay close attention to:

• Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks

• Sanctions restrictions on certain countries or entities

• Requirements for proof of origin and ownership

In some cases, depending on destination and material, additional controls may apply or extra supporting documents may be requested by:

• UK authorities

• Banks and trade finance providers

• Insurance companies

Wigmore Trading operates within robust compliance frameworks and can support you in gathering and presenting the required information so that your export Precious Metal Scraps transactions remain transparent and compliant.

3. Quality, testing and valuation

The value of precious metal scrap depends on its recoverable metal content. Buyers and sellers typically rely on:

• Assay reports or test certificates

• Clear description of contamination levels and residual materials

• Agreed methodology for valuation and settlement

Common approaches include:

• Pricing based on a percentage of an international benchmark (for example, LBMA prices) adjusted for recovery yield

• Provisional pricing at loading, followed by final settlement after refining

Wigmore Trading helps coordinate:

• Independent testing where needed

• Communication between supplier, buyer and refiner

• Clear terms on how value and quantity are calculated

This reduces disputes and creates a more predictable trading relationship.

4. Logistics, packaging and insurance

Precious metal scraps may be shipped as:

• Drums, bags or sealed containers of mixed scrap

• Packed and labelled pallets

• Secure containers for higher-value material

Key logistics points:

• Secure packaging to prevent loss or contamination

• Accurate weight documentation (gross and net weight)

• Choice of air freight vs. sea freight based on value, risk and urgency

• Adequate insurance cover for high-value goods in transit

Because the unit value is high, even small discrepancies can be costly. Wigmore Trading works with logistics partners experienced in handling valuable and sensitive cargo, arranging:

• Collection from UK suppliers

• Consolidation where appropriate

• Export customs clearance

• Delivery to the agreed destination port or warehouse

5. Working with Wigmore Trading to export Precious Metal Scraps

By choosing Wigmore Trading as your partner to export Precious Metal Scraps from the United Kingdom, you benefit from:

• Sourcing support

  • Access to vetted UK suppliers of precious metal scrap

  • Help assessing the suitability of materials for your refining or manufacturing needs

• Documentation and compliance

  • Support with HS classification, export declarations and shipping documents

  • Alignment with AML and KYC requirements

• Commercial and logistics coordination

  • Negotiation support between buyer and seller

  • Arrangement of freight, insurance and secure handling

  • Monitoring of shipments from collection to delivery

Whether you are a refinery, industrial buyer, or trading house, Wigmore Trading can simplify your entry into the UK precious metal scrap market and help you build a long-term, reliable supply chain.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about our current availability and how we can structure an export solution that suits your volume, quality and destination requirements.

How to get started with UK Precious Metal Scrap exports

If you are ready to export Precious Metal Scraps or buy from UK suppliers, a simple starting checklist is:

1. Define the types of precious metal scrap you require (gold, silver, platinum group, mixed electronic scrap).

2. Indicate your preferred shipment size and frequency.

3. Confirm destination country, port and any local regulatory requirements.

4. Share your payment and documentation preferences (e.g. letter of credit, bank transfer, assay-based settlements).

Wigmore Trading can then:

• Source suitable UK-origin materials

• Propose terms and shipping options

• Coordinate documentation and logistics from end to end

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing and export of Precious Metal Scraps from the United Kingdom.