Product classification
HS code for Alloy steel sections: 7228.70
Steel, alloy, angles, shapes and sections.
Classification of alloy steel sections under HS 7228.70
The classification for alloy steel sections, including angles and shapes, is HS code 7228.70. This code is part of heading 7228, which is the primary category for alloy steel products that are not flat-rolled, not in coils, and not simple wire. Sections are defined as products having a uniform cross-section along their entire length, which do not fit the definitions of bars, rods, or plates. Common shapes include L, T, I, U, and H profiles. For a section to be classified under 7228.70, it must be made of "other alloy steel" as defined by the Chapter 72 notes. This classification is distinct from non-alloy sections (heading 7216) and stainless steel sections (heading 7222). The use of alloy steel in these structural shapes provides enhanced mechanical properties, such as higher tensile strength or better performance at extreme temperatures, compared to carbon steel. Importers must ensure that the sections have not been further fabricated into specific parts for structures, as that would shift the classification to Chapter 73. The classification process involves measuring the dimensions of the profile and verifying the chemical composition through metallurgical documentation to ensure it meets the alloy threshold for chromium, manganese, or other elements.
- Covers
- Alloy steel I-beams and H-beams
- Alloy steel L-sections (angles)
- Alloy steel U-channels
- T-shaped alloy steel sections
- Custom cold-formed alloy steel shapes
- Also under 7228.70
- ArcelorMittal structural sections
- Nucor alloy steel shapes
- Tata Steel structural angles
- SSAB high-strength sections
Codes often confused with 7228.70
Common mistake. The most frequent misclassification is using heading 7216, which is only for non-alloy steel sections. Another error involves heading 7308, which covers structures and parts of structures. If the alloy section has been drilled, bent, or otherwise fabricated for a specific building project, it may be considered a structure under 7308 rather than a raw material under 7228. Additionally, sheet piling is specifically classified under 7301, even if made of alloy steel.
Top exporters and importers of HS 722870 (the code used for alloy steel sections), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 722870 (the code used for alloy steel sections) in UN Comtrade data was Spain, with 21% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 9.4% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 722870, not only alloy steel sections.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Spain $110M 21% of world exports
- 2 China $102M 19% of world exports
- 3 Italy $62M 12% of world exports
World total: $528M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $60M 9.4% of world imports
- 2 Canada $48M 7.6% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $46M 7.3% of world imports
World total: $635M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for alloy steel sections
Brazil classifies alloy steel sections under NCM 7228.70.00: HS 7228.70 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
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.
Questions about alloy steel sections
What is the HS code for Alloy steel sections?
The HS code for Alloy steel sections is 722870 (Steel, alloy; angles, shapes and sections). The HS code for angles, shapes, and sections of other alloy steel is 7228.70.
How do I classify Alloy steel sections for customs?
Alloy steel sections is classified under HS code 722870 — Steel, alloy; angles, shapes and sections. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are alloy steel beams classified here?
Yes, provided they are made of alloy steel and have not been further fabricated into finished structural components, they fall under 7228.70.
Which countries are the top exporters of alloy steel sections (HS 722870)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 722870 (the code used for alloy steel sections) in UN Comtrade data were Spain ($110M, 21% of world exports), China ($102M) and Italy ($62M). World exports came to about $528M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of alloy steel sections (HS 722870)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 722870 (the code used for alloy steel sections) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($60M, 9.4% of world imports), Canada ($48M) and the United Kingdom ($46M). World imports came to about $635M, 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.
Is the HS code for Alloy steel sections the same in all countries?
The base HS code 722870 for Alloy steel sections is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for alloy steel sections in Brazil?
In Brazil, alloy steel sections (HS 722870) is classified under NCM 7228.70.00.