U.S. Customs to Auction 22,000 Tons of Seized Aluminum

CWS Marketing Group and Amentum to hold two events in 2026 to sell off the high-grade alloys.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:31am

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The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency will be auctioning off over 22,000 tons of seized aluminum alloys in Riverside, California across two events in 2026. The aluminum, consisting of approximately 279,000 spot-welded 'pallets' made from AL356 and AL6063 alloys, will be sold by CWS Marketing Group and Amentum to support recycling, domestic manufacturing, environmental savings, and federal law enforcement missions.

Why it matters

The controlled liquidation of this federally seized material promotes responsible asset management and supports domestic manufacturing. The recycling of aluminum saves approximately 95% of the energy required for primary production, offering substantial environmental benefits while returning forfeiture proceeds to support federal law enforcement missions and victim assistance.

The details

The first auction is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2026, and will offer two inside lots totaling nearly 20 million pounds. The second auction, set for May 2026, will feature an outside lot of more than 24 million pounds stored in 625 shipping containers. CBP-approved buyers may participate in person at the Riverside CSF live auction event or online via CWSMarketing.com. A refundable $100,000 good-faith deposit and proof of funds will be required for bidder registration.

  • The first auction is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2026.
  • The second auction is set for May 2026.

The players

CWS Marketing Group

A company conducting the U.S. Customs auction of the seized aluminum alloys.

Amentum

A company conducting the U.S. Customs auction of the seized aluminum alloys and managing the Consolidated Storage Facility where the material is stored.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The federal agency that seized the 22,000 tons of aluminum alloys in 2017.

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What’s next

Previews of the auction lots will be available by appointment at the Riverside facility in the week prior to each auction. Bidders must register in advance and provide a refundable deposit and proof of funds.

The takeaway

This auction represents an opportunity for domestic manufacturers to acquire high-quality aluminum alloys at competitive prices, while also supporting federal law enforcement efforts and promoting sustainable recycling practices that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.