HS Code 72.17 – Wire of iron or non-alloy steel

HS code 7217 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Wire of iron or non-alloy steel. Heading 7217 encompasses a broad range of wire made from iron or non-alloy steel, representing a crucial input for countless industries worldwide. This classification covers wire of various cross-sectional shapes (round, flat, hexagonal, etc.), whether coated or uncoated, and with diverse tensile strengths. It includes products like galvanized wire, barbed wire, spring wire, and welding wire, but specifically excludes insulated electrical wire (Chapter 85) and stranded wire, ropes, or cables (7312). The scope focuses on single-strand wire products that have undergone drawing or rolling processes to achieve their final wire dimensions. For importers, exporters, and customs brokers, precise classification under 7217 is essential due to varying tariffs, trade remedies (like anti-dumping duties), and specific quality standards that can apply based on wire type, diameter, and coating. This heading, nested within Chapter 72 (Iron and Steel) and Section XV (Base Metals), signifies a further processed stage beyond basic bars and rods, transforming steel into a versatile, flexible material. Its historical significance lies in its widespread application, from agricultural fencing and construction reinforcement to advanced manufacturing and consumer goods, underpinning industrial development globally.

Galvanized fencing wire, Barbed wire, Annealed tie wire, High-carbon spring wire, Welding wire (uncoated), Bright drawn wire, Baling wire, Staple wire, Paper clip wire, Reinforcing wire mesh components (single strands), Nail wire, Mattress spring wire, Coat hanger wire (raw), Chain link fence wire, Vineyard trellis wire, Agricultural binding wire, General engineering wire, Uncoated musical instrument wire, Wire for wire drawing, Wire for cold heading, Wire for weaving.

Misclassification under 7217 often occurs due to confusion with multi-strand products or less processed forms. A common mistake is classifying stranded wire, ropes, or cables under 7217, when they correctly belong to 7312 (Stranded wire, ropes, cables, plaited bands, slings and the like, of iron or steel, not electrically insulated), which covers products made of multiple twisted or braided wires. Another error is confusing wire with 'wire rod' (7213), which is a hot-rolled product in irregularly wound coils, typically thicker and intended for further drawing into wire. Furthermore, uninsulated wire from 7217 is sometimes incorrectly associated with insulated electrical wire of 8544, which explicitly includes the insulating material.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7217 in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.7B, 25% of world exports), Italy ($636M) and Germany ($393M). World exports came to about $7.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7217 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($528M, 7.1% of world imports), Germany ($485M) and Poland ($377M). World imports came to about $7.4B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7217 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 72 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (72) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (17) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.