How to Buy and Export Precious Metal Scraps from South Africa

Precious metals like gold, silver and platinum are in high demand worldwide. South Africa is one of the world’s leading producers of gold, platinum and other precious metals. In fact, the country is the seventh largest producer of mined gold globally and a leading producer of primary platinum. However, exporting scrap metal from South Africa can be challenging. You need to comply with complex customs regulations and meet the standards of potential buyers. The good news is you can streamline your processes by partnering with a local scrap metal dealer and using an effective logistics provider to export your goods efficiently. Let’s take a look at how you can buy and export precious metal scraps from South Africa as a wholesaler or retailer.

Know Your Scrap Metal Exporting Requirements

Before you buy scrap metal and export it, make sure you understand the requirements for the particular type of scrap you’re buying. The regulations and standards for scrap metal vary significantly by region. That’s why it’s critical to do your research upfront and select your suppliers wisely. In general, the most common types of scrap for export include: Ferrous and non-ferrous metals (Aluminium, copper, lead, zinc, etc.) Copper alloy scrap – Any combination of copper, brass or bronze Aluminium/aluminium alloy scrap – Any combination of aluminium and aluminium alloys Brass scrap – Any combination of copper and zinc Iron scrap – Any iron-based material including cast iron, steel and wrought iron Steel scrap – Iron and steel that has been melted or cast Concrete scrap / construction debris – Any building materials that have been previously used

Finding a Reputable Export Partner

To buy precious metal scraps and export them successfully, you need a reliable buyer. The best way to find buyers is to approach scrap dealers who specialize in the export of metals. If you are in the business of buying and selling scrap, you must make sure that your partners have the required export licenses. For instance, exporters of precious metals must be licensed by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). When you’re sourcing scrap metal suppliers, make sure they have the required certifications and licenses. And always conduct your due diligence before entering into a partnership.

The Importance of Solid Logistics Strategies

Before you buy scrap metal and export it, you must understand the importance of logistics. All the processes that are associated with buying, transporting and exporting scrap metal are known as logistics. Make sure your logistics provider is compliant with the Department of Transport’s international shipping regulations. This will help you avoid penalties and delays at customs. First, you need to decide where you want to ship your goods from. There are three main export hubs in South Africa: Port Elizabeth (PE), Durban, and Cape Town. Port Elizabeth is the largest port in the Eastern Cape and one of the largest in the country. It boasts a large coal export industry. Next, you need to choose the type of transportation for your goods. You can choose to either ship by air or sea freight. Sea freight is the most common type of transportation for large shipments of scrap metal. It’s important to note that you can only export ferrous scrap by sea.

Exporting Platinum Scrap

South Africa is the third largest producer of platinum in the world and the largest producer of platinum group metals (PGMs) in Africa. The country is also the largest exporter of platinum scrap. Most platinum scrap exported from South Africa is recycled from waste products. The most common sources of scrap metal include auto catalysts and jewellery. If you plan to export platinum scrap, make sure it’s 99.5% pure. The good news is that platinum scrap is widely in demand. You can sell it to importers in countries like the U.S., China, Japan, and Europe.

Exporting Gold Scrap

South Africa is the fifth largest producer of gold in the world. As such, it is a major exporter of gold scrap. There are several grades of gold scrap and each has a different price. The most common grades include 99.9% pure, 99.5%, 99.0%, and 99.0%. The most expensive grade is 99.9%, followed by 99.5%. The most common sources of gold scrap include jewellery, dental gold, and electronics. You can also source gold from industrial applications like computers and medical devices. You can sell gold scrap to importers in different regions, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Exporting Silver Scrap

South Africa produces a significant amount of silver each year. This precious metal is commonly used in industrial applications. It is also used in jewellery, photography, and medicine. Silver scrap is recyclable precious metal that can be sold to importers in Australia, Canada, the U.K., and the U.S. Like gold, silver scrap comes in different grades. The most common grades of silver scrap include 99.9% pure, 99.5%, and 99.0%. The most expensive grade is 99.9%, followed by 99.5% pure. The most common sources of silver scrap include photographic supplies, jewellery, and electrical contacts. You can also source silver from industrial applications like computers and medical devices.

Key Takeaway

If you want to buy precious metal scraps and export them, make sure you understand the requirements for the particular type of scrap you’re buying. The most common types of scrap for export include: ferrous and non-ferrous metals, copper alloy scrap, aluminium/aluminium alloy scrap, brass scrap, iron scrap, steel scrap, concrete scrap/construction debris. To buy precious metal scraps and export them successfully, you need a reliable buyer. The best way to find buyers is to approach scrap dealers who specialize in the export of metals. And always conduct your due diligence before entering into a partnership. When you’re sourcing scrap metal suppliers, make sure they have the required certifications and licenses. And always make logistics a priority. Make sure your logistics provider is compliant with the Department of Transport’s international shipping regulations. This will help you avoid penalties and delays at customs.