About HS Code 721012
This HS code identifies flat-rolled products of non-alloy steel, width 600mm or more, plated or coated with tin, and with a thickness of less than 0.5mm. This represents the most common form of tinplate, widely traded globally due to its excellent formability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. It is indispensable for a vast array of packaging, especially for food and beverages, aerosol cans, and bottle caps. The global trade involves specialized steel mills producing high-quality electrolytic tinplate (ETP), which is then shipped to packaging manufacturers worldwide for conversion into various containers. Its lightweight nature and protective qualities make it a critical material for the modern packaging industry.
Products Under This Code
Tinplate for beverage cans, food-grade tinplate for small cans, electrolytic tinplate (ETP), tin-coated steel for aerosol cans, thin gauge tinplate for bottle caps, easy-open can ends
Real World Examples
US Steel tinplate, thyssenkrupp Rasselstein tinplate, JFE Steel ETP, Baosteel tinplate, Nippon Steel tinplate
Common Misclassification
Often confused with other thin flat-rolled products, especially those with different metallic coatings (e.g., chromium-coated steel 721050) or even uncoated cold-rolled steel (7209).
EU Regulatory Requirements
This product falls under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Importers to the EU must declare embedded carbon emissions and purchase CBAM certificates.
Products Classified Under 7210.12
Industry
This code belongs to the Metals & Metal Products industry.
Trade Overview
Japan, China, and the EU are leading exporters, with packaging industries in North America, Europe, and Asia being major importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 721012?
HS code 721012 covers: Iron or non-alloy steel; flat-rolled, width 600mm or more, plated or coated with tin, thickness of less than 0.5mm. This HS code identifies flat-rolled products of non-alloy steel, width 600mm or more, plated or coated with tin, and with a thickness of less than 0.5mm. This represents the most common form of tinplate, widely traded globally due to its excellent formability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. It is indispensable for a vast array of packaging, especially for food and beverages, aerosol cans, and bottle caps. The global trade involves specialized steel mills producing high-quality electrolytic tinplate (ETP), which is then shipped to packaging manufacturers worldwide for conversion into various containers. Its lightweight nature and protective qualities make it a critical material for the modern packaging industry.
What products fall under HS code 721012?
Tinplate for beverage cans, food-grade tinplate for small cans, electrolytic tinplate (ETP), tin-coated steel for aerosol cans, thin gauge tinplate for bottle caps, easy-open can ends
What are common misclassifications for HS code 721012?
Often confused with other thin flat-rolled products, especially those with different metallic coatings (e.g., chromium-coated steel 721050) or even uncoated cold-rolled steel (7209).
How is HS code 721012 structured?
HS code 721012 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (72) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (10) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (12) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.