The most underestimated step in stainless steel exports is classification. The HS code determines tariffs, anti-dumping duties and whether a licence is required, andthe same shipment declared as "coil" or as "sheet" may face a duty rate that differs by a factor of two.
Common codes (first 6 digits are internationally standard)
| Product | HS Code | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel hot-rolled coil (width ≥600 mm) | 7219.1x | Subdivided by thickness |
| Stainless steel cold-rolled coil (width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x | Subdivided by thickness |
| Stainless steel cold-rolled sheet (not in coils, width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x / 7219.4x | Coil and non-coil are listed separately under 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 classified as articles | Depends on degree of processing; confirm with customs broker |
Three common pitfalls
- Mixing up "coil" and "sheet" declarations: Declaring decoiled sheet as coil may lead to back-duty demands in an anti-dumping investigation. Always update declaration elements before and after decoiling.
- Inconsistency between certificate of origin and invoice description: The product name on the CO must match the commercial invoice and bill of lading, otherwise clearance at the destination port will be rejected. Form A / Form E have more detailed completion requirements.
- Ignoring destination country anti-dumping measures and CBAM: 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 destination country's current measures before shipment.
What we can provide: EN 10204 3.1 mill certificates (including heat number and chemical composition), commercial invoice and packing list, certificate of origin (CO / Form A / Form E), and a declaration elements sheet prepared according to destination country requirements. If third-party inspection (SGS / BV / Intertek) is required, we arrange it before shipment.
We recommend informing us of the destination country and trade term (FOB / CIF / CFR) at the inquiry stage; we will customise the document checklist according to the usual requirements of the destination port to reduce supplementary documents after arrival.
