The EU Waste Shipment Regulation (WSR) governs the export of waste materials — including metal scrap — from the European Union to non-OECD countries. For buyers in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, understanding what the regulation requires is essential to avoid shipment delays, customs holds, or outright rejection at the port of export.

The WSR classifies scrap into two categories: green list (non-hazardous) and amber list (hazardous or requiring prior notification). Most ferrous and non-ferrous scrap falls under the green list if it meets specific purity and contamination thresholds. Green list shipments require fewer formalities but still need proper documentation.

For green list scrap, the key documents are: (1) Annex VII form — the movement document that must accompany every shipment, detailing the consignor, consignee, quantity, and description of the waste; (2) a contract between the exporter and the importer specifying the terms of the shipment; and (3) test results or a declaration confirming the scrap classification.

The Annex VII form must be signed by both parties and must travel with the shipment. In practice, electronic copies are accepted by most customs authorities, but the original signed version should be available on request. Missing or incomplete Annex VII documentation is one of the most common causes of border delays.

Amber list scrap — which includes certain types of electronic scrap, shredded fractions with high organic content, or material with elevated levels of hazardous components — requires prior written notification and consent from both the exporting and importing countries. This process can take 8–12 weeks and adds significant cost and complexity.

Practical advice: work with an exporter who understands the WSR classification system and maintains proper documentation. A reputable supplier will provide the Annex VII, test certificates, and classification justification with every shipment. If a supplier cannot produce these documents, that is a warning sign.