Exporting Metal Cans and Closures to the US — Food and Beverage Manufacturers

Metal cans and closures are the backbone of the US food and beverage packaging industry, preserving everything from carbonated soft drinks to canned vegetables and soups. For US food and beverage manufacturers, sourcing these containers from Latin America offers a strategic advantage: proximity to US markets, competitive pricing, and adherence to international quality standards. This page provides a comprehensive guide for suppliers and buyers navigating the trade of metal cans and closures between Latin America and the United States.

The Role of Metal Cans and Closures in US Supply Chains

The United States is one of the largest consumers of metal cans globally, driven by the beverage sector (particularly beer and soft drinks) and the food processing industry. In 2023, the US imported over $2.5 billion worth of metal containers, with cans and closures representing a significant portion [1]. These containers are essential for shelf-stable products, offering durability, recyclability, and extended shelf life. For US food and beverage manufacturers, reliable supply chains for metal cans and closures are critical to maintaining production schedules and meeting consumer demand.

Product Specifications and Grades Relevant to US Buyers

Metal cans and closures are manufactured primarily from aluminum or tinplate steel, each with distinct specifications. Aluminum cans are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and widely used for beverages, while tinplate steel cans are favored for food products due to their strength and compatibility with high-temperature processing. US buyers typically require cans that meet ASTM B209 (aluminum) or ASTM A623 (tinplate) standards [2]. Closures, including easy-open ends and screw caps, must comply with FDA regulations for food contact materials and often require BPA-free linings. Common sizes include 12-ounce (355 ml) beverage cans, 15-ounce (425 g) food cans, and 2-piece or 3-piece constructions. Suppliers must provide certifications confirming material composition, coating integrity, and dimensional tolerances.

LATAM and Africa Supplier Landscape

Latin America is a growing hub for metal can and closure production, with key suppliers in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Chile. Brazil, the region's largest producer, benefits from abundant aluminum and steel resources, with companies like Latapack-Ball and Crown Embalagens supplying both domestic and export markets [3]. Mexico's proximity to the US makes it a top exporter of metal cans, leveraging NAFTA/USMCA trade preferences. Argentina and Chile also produce tinplate cans for food processing. In Africa, South Africa has a modest but established can manufacturing sector, primarily serving local markets. Suppliers in these regions offer competitive pricing due to lower labor costs and access to raw materials, though logistics and lead times vary. For US buyers, Latin American suppliers provide shorter transit times (1-3 weeks by sea) compared to Asian sources.

US Buyer Types — Who Buys This, How They Procure, What Specs Matter

US food and beverage manufacturers range from multinational corporations (e.g., Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Campbell Soup) to regional processors and craft beverage producers. Large buyers typically issue annual contracts through procurement departments, specifying volumes, delivery schedules, and quality benchmarks. Small and medium enterprises often source through distributors or direct supplier agreements. Key specifications include can body diameter (e.g., 211, 300, 401), end type (e.g., stay-on tab, full aperture), and lining materials (e.g., epoxy, polypropylene). Buyers also prioritize sustainability credentials, such as recycled content and recyclability, aligning with US consumer trends. Certifications like ISO 9001 (quality management) and FSSC 22000 (food safety) are often prerequisites [4].

Certifications and Import Requirements for This Product

Importing metal cans and closures into the US requires compliance with several regulatory frameworks. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that all food contact materials be Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) or meet FDA regulations for indirect food additives [5]. Suppliers must provide documentation on coating composition, migration testing, and compliance with 21 CFR parts 175-178. Additionally, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) may impose phytosanitary requirements for certain closures if they incorporate organic materials. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires accurate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification; for example, HTS 7310.21.00 covers tinplate cans, while HTS 7612.90.50 covers aluminum cans. Importers should also verify country-of-origin labeling and anti-dumping duties, particularly for steel products from certain countries. Third-party certifications like ASTM, ISO, and BRC Packaging add credibility and streamline buyer acceptance.

Pricing and Lead Time Context

Pricing for metal cans and closures fluctuates with raw material costs, particularly aluminum (LME pricing) and steel (HRC pricing). As of 2024, aluminum can prices range from $0.12 to $0.20 per can for standard 12-ounce sizes, while tinplate cans range from $0.15 to $0.30 depending on size and coating [6]. Closures add $0.02 to $0.08 per unit. Lead times from Latin American suppliers are typically 4-8 weeks for standard orders, with faster turnaround for repeat shipments. Bulk orders (e.g., 100,000+ units) may qualify for volume discounts. Buyers should factor in freight costs, which from Brazil to US Gulf ports average $2,000-$3,500 per 40-foot container. Currency exchange rates and trade agreements (e.g., USMCA) can further affect landed costs.

How Coppermont Connects Suppliers to Buyers

Coppermont specializes in bridging Latin American and African suppliers with US buyers, offering end-to-end advisory for metal cans and closures trade. For suppliers, we provide market intelligence, compliance guidance, and buyer matchmaking. For US food and beverage manufacturers, we conduct supplier audits, negotiate contracts, and manage logistics. Our team ensures all products meet US specifications and certifications, reducing risk and accelerating time-to-market. Whether you are a supplier seeking US buyers or a manufacturer diversifying your sourcing, Coppermont delivers tailored solutions.

Ready to Source or Supply Metal Cans and Closures?

Suppliers: Ready to export metal cans and closures to the US? Contact Coppermont for a market assessment and buyer introduction. Buyers: Looking for reliable Latin American sources for your packaging needs? Let us connect you with vetted suppliers. Reach out today to start your trade journey.