The most underestimated part of 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 "plate" 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 plate (not coiled, width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x / 7219.4x | Coiled and uncoiled are classified separately in 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
- Confusing "coil" and "plate" in the declaration: Declaring uncoiled plates as coils — during an anti-dumping audit, additional duties will be demanded. 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, or clearance will be refused at the destination port. Form A / Form E have more detailed packing 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 certificate 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 needed, it is arranged before shipment.
We recommend stating the destination country and trade terms (FOB / CIF / CFR) at the inquiry stage; we will tailor the document list to the usual port in the destination country to minimize supplementary documents after arrival.
