HS Code for Alloy steel blooms

Alloy steel blooms are classified under HS code 7224.90, which pertains to semi-finished products of other alloy steel. To arrive at this classification, one must first refer to Chapter 72 of the Harmonized System, which covers iron and steel. Note 1(f) to Chapter 72 defines "other alloy steel" based on specific weight percentages of alloying elements such as manganese, silicon, chromium, or nickel. Once the material is identified as alloy steel, heading 7224 is selected as it covers alloy steel in ingots or other primary forms and semi-finished products. Within this heading, subheading 7224.90 is the residual category for semi-finished products that are not ingots. Blooms are typically characterized by a square or rectangular cross-section, where the width is less than twice the thickness, and they serve as the intermediate stage before being rolled into finished products like beams or rails. The classification process requires verifying the chemical composition of the steel to ensure it meets the alloy criteria and confirming that the product has not yet been finished into a final shape covered by subsequent headings. These products are usually hot-rolled or forged and are intended for further processing into bars, rods, or structural shapes.

Products Included

• Alloy steel blooms
• Alloy steel billets
• Semi-finished alloy steel slabs
• Rectangular semi-finished alloy products
• Forged alloy steel blanks for further rolling

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with heading 7207, which is strictly for semi-finished products of non-alloy steel. Importers must check the mill test report (MTR) to confirm if alloying elements exceed the thresholds in Chapter Note 1(f). Another error is using 7218, which is reserved for stainless steel (containing 1.2% or less of carbon and 10.5% or more of chromium). Finally, if the bloom has been further worked into a specific shape like a beam, it must move to heading 7228.

FAQ

What is the HS code for alloy steel blooms?

The HS code for alloy steel blooms is 7224.90, covering semi-finished products of other alloy steel.

How do blooms differ from billets in classification?

In the HS system, both blooms and billets of alloy steel generally fall under 7224.90 as semi-finished products; the distinction is primarily industrial based on cross-sectional size, with blooms being larger.