The most underestimated step in exporting stainless steel is classification. The HS code determines tariffs, anti-dumping duties, and whether a license is required, andthe same shipment declared as a \"coil\" or as a \"sheet\" may see its duty rate differ by as much as double.
Common Codes (First 6 Digits, Internationally Harmonized)
| Product | HS Code | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 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 coiled, width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x / 7219.4x | Coiled and uncoiled are classified separately under some customs tariffs |
| Stainless steel strip (width <600 mm) | 7220.xx | Common for slit strip |
| Stainless steel discs / special shapes | 7326.90 or per product classification | Depends on the degree of processing; confirm with your customs broker |
Three Common Pitfalls
- Mixed declaration of \"coil\" vs. \"sheet\": Declaring sheets as coils after uncoiling — anti-dumping verification will require additional duties. Declaration items must be updated before and after uncoiling.
- Certificate of Origin not matching the product name on the invoice: The product name on the CO must match the commercial invoice and bill of lading, otherwise documents will be rejected at the destination port. Form A / Form E have more detailed completion requirements.
- Ignoring anti-dumping measures and CBAM in the destination country: The EU has anti-dumping measures on certain stainless steel products, and during the CBAM transitional period embedded carbon emissions must also be declared. Confirm the current measures in the destination country before shipping.
What We Can Provide: EN 10204 3.1 quality assurance certificates accompanying the shipment (including batch number and chemical composition), commercial invoice and packing list, certificate of origin (CO / Form A / Form E), and a declaration items table prepared to the destination country's requirements. If third-party inspection (SGS / BV / Intertek) is required, it is arranged before shipment.
We recommend stating the destination country and trade terms (FOB / CIF / CFR) at the inquiry stage, and we will tailor the document list to the destination port to minimize supplementary documents after arrival.
