The most underrated step in stainless steel export is classification. The HS code determines duties, anti-dumping tariffs and whether a license is required, andthe same shipment can face twice the duty rate depending on whether it is declared as "coil" or "sheet".
Common Codes (the first 6 digits are internationally standardized)
| Product | HS Code | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Coil and non-coil are separated in some tariff schedules |
| Stainless steel narrow strip (width <600 mm) | 7220.xx | Commonly used for slit strip |
| Stainless steel circles / profiled parts | 7326.90 or classification as finished goods | Depends on the degree of processing; confirm with your customs broker |
Three Common Pitfalls
- Confusing "coil" and "sheet": If uncoiled sheet is declared as coil, an anti-dumping review may require retroactive duty collection. Update the declaration details before and after uncoiling.
- Certificate of origin and invoice showing different goods descriptions: The goods description on the CO must match the commercial invoice and bill of lading, otherwise the documents will be rejected at customs clearance in the destination port. Form A / Form E have even stricter completion requirements.
- Overlooking the destination country's anti-dumping measures and CBAM: The EU has anti-dumping measures against certain stainless steel products, and during CBAM's transitional period, embedded carbon emissions must also be declared. Confirm the destination country's current measures before shipment.
What We Can Provide: EN 10204 3.1 quality certificates (with heat number and chemical composition) accompanying the goods, commercial invoice and packing list, certificate of origin (CO / Form A / Form E), and declaration data forms tailored to the destination country's requirements. If third-party inspection (SGS / BV / Intertek) is needed, it is arranged before loading.
We recommend stating the destination country and delivery terms (FOB / CIF / CFR) already in your inquiry, so we can tailor the document list to the destination port's practice and reduce follow-ups on arrival.
