The most underrated step in stainless steel export is classification. The HS code determines duties, anti-dumping levies and whether a permit is required — andthe same shipment declared as "coil" or as "sheet" can face a duty rate that differs by a factor of two.
Common Codes (First 6 Digits Are International)
| Product | HS Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hot-rolled stainless steel coil (width ≥600 mm) | 7219.1x | Subdivided by thickness |
| Cold-rolled stainless steel coil (width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x | Subdivided by thickness |
| Cold-rolled stainless steel sheet (not in coils, width ≥600 mm) | 7219.3x / 7219.4x | Coil and non-coil material are separated in some tariffs |
| Stainless steel strip (width <600 mm) | 7220.xx | Often used for slit strip |
| Stainless steel circles / shaped 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: sheet that has been uncoiled but declared as coil can trigger a tax reassessment during an anti-dumping audit. Update the declaration data before and after uncoiling.
- Mismatch between the goods description on the certificate of origin and on the invoice: the description on the CO must match the commercial invoice and packing list, otherwise clearance at the destination port will be rejected. Form A / Form E completion requirements are more detailed.
- Overlooking destination-country anti-dumping measures and CBAM: the European Union applies anti-dumping measures to certain stainless steel products, and during the transitional period CBAM also requires reporting of embedded emissions. Confirm current measures in the destination country before shipment.
What We Can Provide: EN 10204 3.1 certificate supplied with each delivery (with heat number and chemical composition), commercial invoice and packing list, certificate of origin (CO / Form A / Form E), and a declaration data sheet prepared to destination-country requirements. If third-party inspection (SGS / BV / Intertek) is needed, we arrange it before loading.
We recommend stating the destination country and trade terms (FOB / CIF / CFR) already at the inquiry stage; we will tailor the document list to destination-port standards to reduce the need for supplementary documents after the goods arrive.
