HS Code for Cold-formed alloy steel rods

HS code 7228.50 is designated for bars and rods made of alloy steel, excluding stainless steel, that have been cold-formed or cold-finished. The classification process requires a detailed analysis of both the chemical metallurgy and the mechanical history of the product. Under the Harmonized System, "alloy steel" is defined by Chapter 72, Note 1(f), which sets specific weight thresholds for various elements; for instance, if the aluminum content is 0.3% or more, or the chromium content is 0.3% or more, the steel is classified as an alloy. Cold-forming involves shaping the steel through processes such as cold-drawing, grinding, or turning at room temperature. This method enhances the tensile strength and yield strength of the material while providing a superior surface finish and precise diameter control. These products are typically solid and have a uniform cross-section along their entire length, often in the shape of circles, ovals, rectangles, squares, or regular polygons. They are distinguished from "wire" by the fact that they are not in coils and from "flat-rolled products" by their cross-sectional dimensions. Accurate classification is essential for applying the correct tariff rates, as alloy steels often carry different duties than carbon steels.

Products Included

• Cold-drawn alloy steel rounds
• Cold-finished hexagonal alloy bars
• Ground alloy steel rods
• Cold-formed square alloy bars
• Polished alloy steel rods

Common Misclassification

Common misclassifications occur with HS code 7215, which covers cold-finished bars of non-alloy steel. It is also confused with 7228.30, which is for hot-rolled alloy bars, and 7222, which is reserved for stainless steel bars and rods. If the product is in irregularly wound coils, it must be classified as wire under 7229.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cold-formed alloy steel rods?

The HS code for bars and rods of alloy steel (other than stainless), cold-formed or cold-finished, is 7228.50.

What defines "alloy steel" for this classification?

Alloy steel is defined by containing elements like chromium, nickel, molybdenum, or manganese in quantities exceeding the specific weight limits defined in Chapter 72, Note 1(f).