Utility-scale and rooftop solar in the US uses large quantities of aluminium rails, clamps, ground-mount purlins and module frames. Southeast Asian extruders are natural suppliers, but solar is one of the most tariff-sensitive sectors in US trade. A clear view of scope and duty is worth more than a low ex-works price.
Scope questions to settle first
- Solar cells and modules from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam are subject to US AD/CVD orders issued in 2025. Mounting structures shipped alone are generally a different product. Rails or frames shipped attached to modules, or as part of a module kit, need careful review.
- Aluminium extrusions from China have been under AD/CVD orders since 2011, and the scope rulings on solar parts are detailed. Products made from Chinese extrusions with only minor processing elsewhere are a known risk — see origin and circumvention.
- Section 232 applies to aluminium profiles and many fabricated structures, on full value since April 2026 — see landed cost.
Documents US buyers expect
- Mill certificates (typically 6005-T5 or 6063-T6 rails) and coating or anodising specs for corrosion resistance.
- Structural certification of the racking system, often referencing UL 2703 for bonding and grounding, where the buyer requires it.
- A traceable origin file: billet purchases with smelt and cast country, extrusion logs and finishing records.
Packing for solar projects
- Standard rail lengths (4–6 m) fit 20' or 40' containers. Bundle with spacers and edge protectors.
- Label bundles by project, row or block, so the site can unload in installation order.
- Clamps and small hardware travel in cartons on pallets. Keep bills of materials per pallet.
Delivering to solar sites
Ground-mount sites are often remote, unpaved and have no dock. Plan flatbed delivery, a telehandler or forklift on site, and phased releases that match the construction schedule. Under DDP, the supplier presents one price per megawatt-block delivered, with duty and clearance included. That is easier for EPC contractors to compare.
Related: AD/CVD basics · packing aluminium profiles · DDP to Texas.
Section 232 annex lists, rates and CBP guidance change on a rolling basis. This article is general guidance, not legal advice — confirm the current treatment of your HTS codes before quoting or shipping.
Balance Trans ships aluminium products from Vietnam and Cambodia to all 50 US states on DDP terms — freight, US customs entry, duties and final delivery in one quote. See DDP shipping to the USA or send us your HTS code and packing list.