Buying and exporting scrap iron from Russia is an attractive opportunity for traders, manufacturers, and steel mills that rely on recycled metal. With the right partner, you can turn complex sourcing, sanctions compliance, and logistics into a repeatable, profitable process. Wigmore Trading can help.

Why companies buy and export Scrap Iron from Russia

Russia has long been a major supplier of ferrous scrap to global markets, thanks to its large industrial base and steady generation of end-of-life steel. Scrap iron (often traded as HMS 1 & 2 or mixed ferrous scrap) is a key input for mini-mills, re-rollers, and foundries that depend on recycled feedstock rather than virgin ore.

For buyers in Africa, the Middle East, and other import-dependent regions, sourcing scrap iron from Russia can offer:

• Competitive pricing versus local or regional scrap sources.

• Stable availability due to continuous industrial production and demolition activity.

• Suitable grades for construction steel, rebar, billets, and foundry applications.

However, trading with Russia also comes with higher expectations around regulatory compliance, sanctions screening, and payment/security management. This is where having an experienced intermediary such as Wigmore Trading is essential.

How to Buy and export Scrap Iron from Russia step-by-step

To buy and export scrap iron efficiently, it helps to break the process into clear stages:

1. Define your scrap iron specification

Before approaching suppliers, clarify:

• Grade (e.g. HMS 1, HMS 2, mixed heavy melting scrap).

• Minimum density and thickness.

• Allowable impurities (e.g. galvanized, painted, small amounts of non-ferrous).

• Packaging (loose in bulk, compressed bales, or container loading).

Sharing a clear specification enables Wigmore Trading to match you with suitable Russian yards and processors, and to reject offers that don’t meet your requirements.

2. Source and verify Russian scrap suppliers

In Russia, scrap iron is collected through a mix of scrap yards, demolition contractors, and industrial recyclers. The key risks at this step are:

• Unreliable quality (too much light scrap, contamination).

• Inconsistent volumes that disrupt your production.

• Non-compliant or unvetted entities that may introduce sanctions or reputational risk.

Wigmore Trading can help by:

• Working only with pre-screened scrap yards and exporters.

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• Obtaining photos, videos, and sample reports before you commit.

• Checking company details against sanctions and compliance lists through its due-diligence processes.

3. Negotiate pricing, Incoterms, and payment terms

Scrap iron prices from Russia are usually quoted:

• Per metric ton, based on your agreed grade and loading conditions.

• Under Incoterms such as FOB Russian port or CFR/CIF destination port.

To protect both buyer and seller:

• Use secure payment methods (e.g. letter of credit, bank transfer against documents, or escrow-style structures where appropriate).

• Lock in clear tolerances for weight and quality, including adjustments if the final survey differs from the contract.

With Wigmore Trading acting as your trading partner, you benefit from structured contracts, transparent fees, and experienced support during negotiations.

4. Arrange inspection, loading, and documentation

Buying and exporting scrap iron from Russia requires tight control at the port and thorough documentation:

• Pre-shipment inspection by a reputable surveyor to confirm grade, contamination levels, and approximate weight.

• Supervision of loading into bulk vessels or containers, ensuring safe stowage and minimal contamination.

• Preparation of key documents, for example:

  • Commercial invoice and packing list

  • Bill of Lading

  • Certificate of origin (and, if needed, additional attestations requested by your local customs)

  • Inspection certificates and photos

Wigmore Trading coordinates with local agents, surveyors, and port operators so that documentation is complete and shipment delays are minimized.

5. Shipping, customs clearance, and delivery

Depending on your destination and shipment size, scrap iron can move:

• In bulk vessels for large volumes.

• In 20ft or 40ft containers, often more suitable for smaller or mixed consignments.

Once the cargo departs Russia, your focus shifts to:

• Tracking the vessel and arrival schedule.

• Preparing import documentation and customs declarations in your country.

• Managing port handling, inland transport, and final delivery to your yard or mill.

Wigmore Trading can liaise with your customs broker or suggest logistics partners that understand the specifics of scrap metal import regulations in your market.

Managing risk, sanctions, and compliance when trading with Russia

Because Russia is subject to evolving international sanctions, it’s critical to build compliance into every stage of your scrap iron supply chain. That includes:

• Confirming that counterparties (yards, exporters, banks, and shipping lines) are not restricted in your jurisdiction.

• Verifying that goods, routes, and payment channels comply with local and international rules.

• Keeping documentation and communication records in case your bank or customs authority requests evidence.

Wigmore Trading follows structured KYC (Know Your Customer) and KYB (Know Your Business) procedures when arranging scrap iron exports. By working through an experienced trader, you reduce the risk of costly mistakes and rejected payments, while maintaining full visibility over the transaction.

How Wigmore Trading supports your Scrap Iron sourcing strategy

Whether you are a steel producer, foundry, or scrap merchant, partnering with Wigmore Trading for Russian scrap iron offers several advantages:

• Single, accountable counterparty instead of dealing with multiple unknown suppliers.

• Market intelligence on available grades, port options, and freight rates.

• Flexible shipment sizes, from trial container loads to regular vessel-scale contracts.

• Support for African and emerging market importers, who may face additional banking and regulatory challenges.

If you want to buy and export scrap iron from Russia in a controlled, repeatable way, Wigmore Trading can help design a supply program that fits your budget, quality needs, and risk appetite.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about current availability, pricing, and logistics options.