Exporting Zinc Ingots to the US — Galvanizing and Die-Casting Operations

Zinc is a critical industrial metal in the United States, consumed primarily for galvanizing steel to prevent corrosion and for die-casting alloys used in automotive, construction, and electronics components. US manufacturers import over 600,000 metric tons of zinc annually, with Latin America emerging as a reliable, high-quality source for SHG (Special High Grade) and die-cast grade zinc ingots. This page provides a comprehensive guide for suppliers and buyers navigating the US zinc ingot market.

The Role of Zinc Ingots in US Supply Chains

Zinc ingots are the standard form in which refined zinc is traded internationally. In the United States, roughly 80% of zinc consumption goes to galvanizing—applying a protective zinc coating to steel to prevent rust—while the remainder is used in die-casting alloys, brass production, and chemicals [1]. The US does not have enough domestic zinc smelting capacity to meet demand; in 2023, the country imported approximately 650,000 metric tons of refined zinc, with major sources including Canada, Mexico, Peru, and South Korea [2]. Latin American suppliers, particularly from Peru and Mexico, offer logistical advantages and competitive pricing for US buyers.

Product Specifications and Grades Relevant to US Buyers

US buyers of zinc ingots primarily require two grades: Special High Grade (SHG) and Prime Western (PW). SHG zinc, defined by ASTM B6-13, must contain at least 99.995% zinc, with strict limits on impurities such as lead (max 0.003%), iron (max 0.002%), and cadmium (max 0.003%) [3]. This grade is essential for continuous hot-dip galvanizing lines, where high purity ensures uniform coating and bath longevity. For die-casting operations, zinc alloys such as Zamak #3 (ASTM B240) are produced from SHG zinc with specific additions of aluminum, copper, and magnesium to achieve the desired mechanical properties and castability. US buyers typically order ingots weighing either 20–25 kg (jumbo ingots) or 1,000 kg (jumbo blocks), depending on their melting and handling equipment. Conformity to ASTM standards is mandatory for most US industrial contracts, and suppliers must provide a certificate of analysis (COA) with each shipment confirming the lot's chemical composition.

LATAM and Africa Supplier Landscape for Zinc Ingots

Latin America is a significant producer and exporter of refined zinc. Peru, the region's largest zinc producer, operates major mines such as Antamina and Cerro Lindo, and has smelters capable of producing SHG zinc ingots for export. In 2022, Peru exported over 200,000 metric tons of refined zinc, with the United States as one of its top destinations [4]. Mexico, another key supplier, benefits from proximity to the US border, reducing freight costs and lead times. Mexican smelters, including those operated by Grupo Mexico, produce SHG and PW grades that meet ASTM specifications. Brazil also exports zinc ingots, though volumes are smaller and often directed to other Latin American markets. In Africa, South Africa and Namibia are emerging zinc exporters, but logistical challenges and longer shipping times make them less competitive for US buyers compared to LATAM sources. However, African suppliers may offer price advantages during periods of high global demand. Overall, LATAM suppliers dominate US zinc ingot imports due to shorter transit times (1–2 weeks from Peruvian ports to the US Gulf Coast), lower freight costs, and established trade relationships.

US Buyer Types — Who Buys Zinc Ingots and How They Procure

US buyers of zinc ingots fall into three main categories: galvanizers, die-casters, and traders. Galvanizers operate continuous hot-dip lines or batch galvanizing plants, consuming SHG zinc in large volumes—often 500–2,000 metric tons per month per facility. They typically contract directly with smelters or large traders on multi-month or annual contracts, with pricing linked to LME (London Metal Exchange) zinc prices plus a premium reflecting supply-demand balance and logistics costs [5]. Die-casters, who produce small to medium-sized zinc alloy components for automotive, hardware, and electronics, buy either SHG ingots to blend their own alloys or pre-alloyed Zamak ingots. Their procurement volumes are smaller (10–100 metric tons per month), and they often prefer spot purchases or short-term contracts from distributors. Traders and service centers act as intermediaries, maintaining inventory and offering just-in-time delivery to smaller manufacturers. Across all buyer types, quality consistency, reliable delivery, and competitive pricing are paramount. US buyers increasingly require suppliers to demonstrate environmental and social responsibility, including compliance with the Conflict Minerals Rule (where applicable) and sustainable mining practices.

Certifications and Import Requirements for Zinc Ingots

Importing zinc ingots into the United States requires compliance with several regulatory and commercial standards. First, the product must meet ASTM B6-13 for SHG zinc or the applicable alloy standard (e.g., ASTM B240 for Zamak). US buyers typically require a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an accredited laboratory verifying the chemical composition. For customs clearance, the importer must file an entry with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) using the appropriate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code: 7901.11.0000 for unwrought zinc, not alloyed, containing 99.99% or more by weight of zinc (SHG), or 7901.12.0000 for unwrought zinc containing less than 99.99% zinc (PW) [6]. Zinc ingots are generally duty-free under the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for eligible countries, but suppliers should verify current tariff status as trade policies evolve. Additionally, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates zinc as a hazardous substance under certain conditions, but standard ingot shipments are exempt from special handling requirements. Suppliers should also be prepared to provide documentation of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin (COO) for preferential tariff treatment under free trade agreements like USMCA (for Mexican origin) or bilateral agreements with Peru.

Pricing and Lead Time Context

Zinc ingot pricing in the US is primarily driven by the LME zinc cash settlement price, which fluctuates daily based on global supply-demand dynamics, currency movements, and macroeconomic factors. As of early 2025, LME zinc trades in the range of $2,500–$3,200 per metric ton. On top of the LME price, US buyers pay a premium that covers freight, insurance, handling, and market conditions. For SHG zinc ingots delivered to the US Gulf Coast (e.g., New Orleans), the premium typically ranges from $200 to $350 per metric ton above LME, depending on contract volume and duration [7]. Lead times from LATAM suppliers are generally 4–8 weeks from order confirmation to delivery at a US port, including production, inland transport to the export port, and ocean transit. Shipments from Peru to the US Gulf Coast take approximately 10–14 days by sea; from Mexico, overland trucking can deliver to US buyers in 1–3 weeks. African suppliers face longer lead times of 8–12 weeks due to longer shipping routes and potential port congestion. Buyers often negotiate price adjustment clauses tied to LME movements to manage risk, and some contracts include penalties for late delivery or off-spec material.

How Coppermont Connects Suppliers to Buyers

Coppermont bridges the gap between zinc ingot suppliers in Latin America and US galvanizing and die-casting operations. We provide market intelligence, supplier vetting, and transaction advisory to ensure that both parties achieve optimal outcomes. For suppliers, we offer access to a curated network of US buyers seeking consistent, high-quality SHG and die-cast zinc ingots. We help suppliers navigate ASTM certification requirements, prepare necessary documentation (COA, COO, customs filings), and structure contracts with appropriate pricing mechanisms and delivery terms. For buyers, we identify reliable LATAM suppliers with proven track records, verify product quality through third-party testing, and facilitate transparent negotiations. Our team understands the nuances of the US zinc market—from LME-linked pricing to logistics optimization—and works to reduce transaction costs and risks for both sides. Whether you are a Peruvian smelter looking to expand your US customer base or a Texas galvanizer seeking a dependable alternative to current supply sources, Coppermont provides the expertise and connections to make the trade happen.

Ready to Start Trading?

If you are a supplier of zinc ingots in Latin America or a US buyer in the galvanizing or die-casting industry, contact Coppermont today. Our advisors will help you navigate the US market, from certification to contract negotiation to delivery. Let's build a stronger zinc supply chain together.

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