HS Code for Cold-rolled stainless steel strip

HS code 7220.20 is utilized for flat-rolled products of stainless steel that have a width of less than 600 mm and have been cold-rolled. Unlike heading 7219, which covers wider sheets, heading 7220 is dedicated to narrower strips and bands. The classification process requires verifying that the material is stainless steel (containing by weight 1.2% or less of carbon and 10.5% or more of chromium) and that the final shape was achieved through cold-reduction rather than hot-rolling. This distinction is critical for customs purposes as cold-rolled strips often have different mechanical properties and industrial applications compared to hot-rolled counterparts. The "cold-rolled" designation implies the material was worked below its recrystallization temperature, resulting in a smoother surface, higher tensile strength, and tighter dimensional tolerances. These strips are frequently used in precision engineering, automotive components, and consumer electronics where narrow widths and high-quality finishes are required. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the strip is in coils or cut to length, provided the width remains under the 600 mm threshold.

Products Included

• Cold-rolled stainless steel strips in coils (width < 600mm)
• Narrow stainless steel bands for industrial strapping
• Precision-rolled stainless steel foil (width < 600mm)
• Slit-edge stainless steel coils derived from wider cold-rolled sheets
• Stainless steel spring steel strips in narrow widths

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification occurs with heading 7219, which applies to flat-rolled stainless steel with a width of 600 mm or more. If a wide sheet is slit into narrower strips, the resulting product must move from 7219 to 7220. Another common error is confusing cold-rolled strips (7220.20) with hot-rolled strips (7220.11 or 7220.12). Hot-rolled products are finished at high temperatures and lack the bright, smooth surface of cold-rolled items. Additionally, if the strip is made of alloy steel other than stainless, it would fall under heading 7226. Misidentifying the metallurgical composition can lead to significant duty discrepancies.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Cold-rolled stainless steel strip?

The HS code for cold-rolled stainless steel strip with a width of less than 600mm is 7220.20.

Can 7220.20 include stainless steel that has been further worked?

Yes, as long as the further working, such as perforating or corrugating, does not give the product the character of an article or a product of another heading. The primary classification is based on the cold-rolling process and the width.