HS Code for Hot-Rolled Sheets 4.75–10mm Thickness

Introduction to HS Codes for Hot-Rolled Steel Sheets

In the ever-evolving world of international trade and logistics, understanding the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes for specific products is crucial. Today, we're focusing on an important category in the steel industry: hot-rolled sheets with a thickness between 4.75mm and 10mm. These mid-thickness sheets play a vital role in various industries, from construction to manufacturing, and their proper classification is essential for smooth international trade operations.

Recent data from the World Steel Association shows that global crude steel production reached 1,878.5 million tonnes in 2020, with hot-rolled products making up a significant portion of this output. The demand for mid-thickness hot-rolled sheets remains strong, particularly in emerging economies where infrastructure development is booming.

As we delve into the specifics of HS codes for these products, it's important to note that accurate classification not only ensures compliance with customs regulations but also helps in determining applicable tariffs and trade agreements. This knowledge is particularly valuable for freight forwarders, importers, and exporters dealing with steel products.

Understanding Hot-Rolled Steel Sheets

Before we dive into the specific HS codes, let's briefly explain what hot-rolled steel sheets are and why the 4.75-10mm thickness range is significant:

• Hot-Rolling Process: Hot-rolled steel is produced by rolling the steel at high temperatures (typically above 1,700°F), which allows for easier shaping and forming of the metal.
• Mid-Thickness Classification: Sheets between 4.75mm and 10mm are often considered "mid-thickness" in the industry. They offer a balance between the flexibility of thinner sheets and the strength of thicker plates.
• Applications: These mid-thickness sheets are commonly used in automotive parts, construction, machinery, and various industrial applications where a combination of strength and formability is required.

Understanding these characteristics is crucial for proper classification and, consequently, for determining the correct HS code.

HS Codes for Hot-Rolled Steel Sheets 4.75-10mm

The HS code for hot-rolled steel sheets with a thickness between 4.75mm and 10mm typically falls under Chapter 72 of the Harmonized System, which covers "Iron and Steel." However, the specific code can vary depending on the exact composition and characteristics of the steel. Here are the most relevant HS codes:

7208.37: Other, in coils, not further worked than hot-rolled

This code specifically covers hot-rolled steel sheets in coils with a thickness of 4.75mm or more but not exceeding 10mm. It's important to note that this code applies to sheets that have not undergone any further processing after hot-rolling.

7208.38: Other, in coils, of a thickness of 3mm or more but less than 4.75mm

While this code doesn't directly cover our target thickness range, it's worth mentioning as it applies to slightly thinner hot-rolled sheets in coils.

7208.52: Other, not in coils, of a thickness of 4.75mm or more but not exceeding 10mm

This code is for hot-rolled steel sheets that are not in coils, with the same thickness range of 4.75mm to 10mm.

7225.40: For stainless steel grades

If the hot-rolled sheets are made of stainless steel, they would fall under this category, which covers flat-rolled products of other alloy steel, of a width of 600mm or more, hot-rolled, not in coils.

Factors Affecting HS Code Classification

When determining the correct HS code for hot-rolled steel sheets, several factors come into play:

1. Thickness: As we've seen, the thickness range of 4.75-10mm is a key factor in classification.
2. Form: Whether the sheets are in coils or not can affect the HS code.
3. Steel Grade: The composition of the steel (e.g., carbon steel vs. stainless steel) influences the classification.
4. Further Processing: If the sheets have undergone additional treatment after hot-rolling, they may fall under different HS codes.
5. Width: The width of the sheets (typically 600mm or more for these categories) is also a consideration.

Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate classification and can help avoid potential customs issues or misclassification penalties.

Importance of Correct HS Code Classification

Proper classification of hot-rolled steel sheets using the correct HS code is vital for several reasons:

• Tariff Determination: HS codes directly influence the duties and taxes applied to imported goods.
• Trade Statistics: Accurate classification contributes to reliable international trade statistics, which are crucial for market analysis and policy-making.
• Compliance: Using the correct HS code ensures compliance with customs regulations and trade agreements.
• Smooth Customs Clearance: Proper classification can expedite the customs clearance process, reducing delays and potential additional costs.

For businesses involved in the steel trade, working with experienced logistics partners who understand these nuances can be incredibly beneficial.

How FreightAmigo Can Help with HS Code Classification

At FreightAmigo, we understand the complexities of international trade, especially when it comes to specialized products like hot-rolled steel sheets. Our digital logistics platform offers several advantages for businesses dealing with these materials:

• Expert Guidance: Our team of logistics professionals can provide expert advice on HS code classification for your specific steel products.
• Automated Documentation: Our platform helps automate shipment documents, reducing the risk of classification errors.
• Customs Clearance Support: We offer customs clearance services to ensure your hot-rolled steel shipments comply with all necessary regulations.
• Real-Time Tracking: Keep track of your steel shipments anytime, anywhere with our advanced tracking system.
• Comprehensive Logistics Solutions: From air freight to sea freight, we offer a range of shipping options suitable for different types of steel products.

By leveraging FreightAmigo's digital logistics platform, businesses can navigate the complexities of steel product classification and international shipping with greater ease and confidence.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct HS codes for hot-rolled steel sheets, particularly those in the 4.75-10mm thickness range, is crucial for smooth international trade operations. The classification of these mid-thickness sheets depends on various factors, including their exact thickness, form (coiled or not), and steel grade.

As the global steel industry continues to evolve, staying informed about these classifications and working with knowledgeable logistics partners becomes increasingly important. FreightAmigo's digital logistics platform offers the tools and expertise needed to navigate these complexities, ensuring that your hot-rolled steel shipments are classified correctly and move efficiently through the global supply chain.

Whether you're a manufacturer, trader, or freight forwarder dealing with hot-rolled steel products, remember that accurate HS code classification is key to compliance, cost-effectiveness, and operational efficiency in international trade.

Reference/Source

"Global crude steel output decreases by 0.9% in 2020", World Steel Association, https://worldsteel.org/media-centre/press-releases/2021/global-crude-steel-output-decreases-by-0-9-in-2020/