Ferrous Scrap Insights
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    Used Rail Scrap: Specifications & Export Guide (2026)

    Complete guide to used rail scrap: R50 and R65 specifications, chemical composition, pricing, packing, and export logistics from European suppliers.

    Published: March 16, 2026Updated: March 31, 2026

    Used Rail Scrap Overview

    Used rail scrap is a specialized ferrous scrap product sourced from decommissioned railway tracks. Its high density, consistent chemical composition, and reliable quality make it a valued feedstock for steel mills globally.

    Railway rails are manufactured to precise metallurgical standards, meaning used rails retain predictable chemistry even after decades of service. This makes them particularly attractive for steelmakers producing structural products.

    Specifications

    R50 Rails

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    R65 Rails

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    Quality Requirements

  1. No excessive wear (head profile must be visually intact)
  2. No cracks, fissures, or deformation
  3. Free of concrete, ballast, and non-metallic attachments
  4. Fishplates and bolts may be included or removed per buyer request
  5. Radiation-free (zero tolerance)
  6. Pricing (2026)

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    *R65 typically commands a $10–15/MT premium over R50 due to higher weight and carbon content. Request pricing.*

    Why Are Used Rails Cheaper Than HMS?

    Used rails trade at a discount to HMS 1&2 because:

  7. Higher processing cost for mills (cutting to charge box size)
  8. Higher carbon content requires furnace chemistry adjustment
  9. Specialized handling requirements (heavy, long pieces)
  10. Lower demand than mainstream HMS/shredded grades
  11. Packing and Loading

    Container Loading

    Standard method for quantities up to 500 MT:

  12. Container type:: 40ft open-top (OT)
  13. Cut length:: 1.5m or 3.0m (buyer specification)
  14. Loading per container:: 25–28 MT
  15. Securing:: Lashed and chocked per IMO guidelines
  16. Key advantage:: Door-to-door delivery, multiple port stops possible
  17. Bulk Vessel Loading

    For quantities above 5,000 MT:

  18. Loading:: Crane grab from stockpile
  19. Cut length:: 1.5m, 3.0m, or uncut (vessel hold dependent)
  20. Loading rate:: 3,000–5,000 MT/day
  21. Draft survey:: Weight determination at loading/discharge
  22. Export Process from Europe

    Step 1: Contract

  23. Grade (R50/R65 or mixed)
  24. Quantity ± 10% tolerance
  25. Cut length
  26. Delivery terms (CIF/FOB)
  27. Payment terms
  28. Step 2: Pre-Shipment Inspection

  29. SGS or Bureau Veritas inspection
  30. Chemical analysis (mill certificates or spectroscopy)
  31. Physical condition assessment
  32. Radiation screening
  33. Weight verification
  34. Step 3: Loading and Documentation

    Documents provided:

  35. Bill of Lading (B/L)
  36. Commercial Invoice
  37. Packing List
  38. Certificate of Origin
  39. Inspection Report
  40. Radiation Certificate
  41. Step 4: Transit

    From Rotterdam:

  42. Turkey: 7–10 days
  43. India: 18–22 days
  44. Middle East: 14–18 days
  45. SE Asia: 25–30 days
  46. Sourcing from Nautica Metal Scrap B.V.

    Nautica Metal Scrap B.V. supplies used rail scrap with:

  47. R50 and R65 grades available
  48. Cut to buyer specification (1.5m / 3.0m)
  49. Monthly capacity: 5,000+ MT
  50. CIF delivery worldwide
  51. Full documentation and SGS inspection
  52. See our full ferrous scrap catalog.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is R50 and R65 rail scrap?

    R50 and R65 designate rail weight per linear meter (50 kg and 65 kg). R65 is heavier mainline rail with higher carbon content.

    Where does used rail scrap come from?

    Decommissioned railway lines in Europe, CIS countries, and other regions with aging rail infrastructure.

    How is used rail scrap priced?

    Based on weight (MT), with pricing influenced by grade, destination, volume, and market conditions. Typically $30–60/MT below HMS 1&2.

    What cut lengths are available?

    Standard: 1.5m and 3.0m for container loading. Uncut rails available for bulk vessel shipment.

    Is used rail scrap high quality?

    Yes. Rails are manufactured to precise metallurgical standards, resulting in consistent chemistry and low contamination.

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    *Import used rail scrap from Europe with confidence.*

    📞 WhatsApp: +31 970 102 294 26

    📧 Email: info@nauticametalscrap.com

    Nautica Metal Scrap B.V. — R50/R65 Rail Scrap from Rotterdam

    Looking for Reliable Scrap Metal Supply?

    ✓ Global Export Experience✓ Quality Inspection Guaranteed✓ Fast Delivery Worldwide

    Request Bulk Scrap Pricing

    Send your target grade, quantity, destination port, and preferred delivery term to receive a fast CIF or FOB offer from our export team.

    Contact Us for Export Inquiries

    Ready to source premium metal scrap from Netherlands? Get in touch with our export team for competitive CFR/CIF pricing to China and Asia-Pacific ports.

    Address

    Haltestraat 18, 2042 LM, Zandvoort
    Netherlands

    MOQ: 25 MT
    Monthly Capacity: 20,000 MT

    used rail scrapR50 scrapR65 scraprailway scrap export

    Ready to Discuss Your Metal Scrap Requirements?

    Contact our sales team for competitive pricing, bulk orders, and customized solutions.MOQ: 25 MT | Monthly Capacity: 20,000 MT

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