The most underrated link in stainless steel exports is classification. The HS code determines duties, anti-dumping duties and licensing requirements, andfor the same shipment, declaring it as a \"coil\" or as a \"sheet\" can mean a rate difference of twofold.
Common Codes (First 6 Digits Are International)
| Product | HS Code | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Hot-Rolled Stainless Steel Coil (Width ≥600 mm) | 7219.1x | Classified by thickness |
| Cold-Rolled Stainless Steel Coil (Width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x | Classified by thickness |
| Cold-Rolled Stainless Steel Sheet (Not Coil, Width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x / 7219.4x | Coils and non-coils are classified separately under some tariffs |
| Narrow Stainless Steel Strip (Width <600 mm) | 7220.xx | Often used for slit strip |
| Stainless Steel Circles / Profiled Parts | 7326.90 or Classification as an Article | Depends on the degree of processing; confirm with your customs broker |
Three Common Pitfalls
- Mixed Declaration of \"Coil\" and \"Sheet\": sheet that has been uncoiled is declared as coil — during an anti-dumping review, you will be required to pay additional duty. Be sure to update the declaration elements after uncoiling.
- Mismatch Between the Goods Description in the Certificate of Origin and the Invoice: the goods description in the CO must match the commercial invoice and bill of lading, otherwise customs clearance at the destination port will be rejected. The requirements for completing Form A / Form E are even more detailed.
- Ignoring the Destination Country's Anti-Dumping Measures and CBAM: the EU applies anti-dumping measures to certain stainless steel products, and during the CBAM transitional period, embedded carbon emissions must also be declared. Before shipping, first confirm the current measures of the destination country.
What We Can Provide: EN 10204 3.1 quality certificate shipped with the goods (including heat number and chemical composition), commercial invoice and packing list, certificate of origin (CO / Form A / Form E), as well as a declaration elements table prepared in accordance with the destination country's requirements. If independent inspection (SGS / BV / Intertek) is required, we will arrange it before shipment.
We recommend informing us of the destination country and trade terms (FOB / CIF / CFR) at the inquiry stage; we will prepare the document list according to the usual requirements of the destination port to reduce the need for additional documents after arrival.
