Metal Origin Declarations for Shipments Entering the United States

When shipping goods that contain steel, iron, or aluminum into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may require you to declare the origin of the metal. This includes where the steel or iron was melted and poured or where the aluminum was smelted and cast. These rules support compliance with U.S. trade regulations under Section 232 and Section 301.

Providing this information upfront helps prevent delays, holds, and requests for additional documentation.

When Is a Metal Origin Declaration Required

You must provide Country of Melt and Pour information if your shipment:

• Contains steel, iron, or aluminum components

• Falls under HTS Chapters 72 or 73 or other applicable metal related tariff codes

• Is valued above USD 800 or requires a formal entry

• Contains steel or aluminum parts originating from Mexico, including those used in finished goods

Even low value shipments can trigger this requirement if CBP identifies controlled metals.

What Information You Need to Declare

You will need to provide:

Country of Melt and Pour

Where the steel or iron was originally melted and poured.

Country of Smelt and Cast

Where the aluminum was last smelted and cast.

Country of Manufacture

Where the final product was produced or assembled.

Example:
Manufactured in Canada. Steel melted and poured in Canada.

Where to Enter This Information in ShipTime

You do not need to upload a separate document.

Include the metal origin details directly in the Item Description field on the International Details page before creating your label.

Example Item Description:
Automotive fuel injector. Precision machined steel component melted and poured in Canada. Manufactured in Canada.

This ensures Customs receives the required details electronically and reduces clearance delays.

If Customs or the Carrier Requests Additional Documentation

If CBP or the carrier requests a separate declaration after the shipment has been sent, you can provide it using company letterhead with the following format:

Melt and Pour / Smelt and Cast Declaration

We hereby certify that the metallic components in this shipment were:

Melted and poured (for steel or iron) or smelted and cast (for aluminum) in [Country]
Final product manufactured in [Country]

Shipper: [Your Company Name]
Date: [Date]
Signature: [Authorized Representative]

You can send this to support@shiptime.com or directly to the party requesting the information.
Be sure to include the tracking number, not only the Ship ID.

Best Practices to Avoid Delays

• Always include the country of manufacture and the metal origin in your item description

• If your products contain steel, aluminum, or iron, include the information even if the component is minor

• Keep documentation from your manufacturer, such as a mill test report or material origin statement

• If uncertain, include a simple disclosure such as:
  Contains aluminum cast in Canada.

Quick Reference