HS Code for Expanded steel

Expanded steel is classified under HS code 7314.50, which is situated within Chapter 73 of the Harmonized System, covering articles of iron or steel. Heading 7314 is a broad category that includes cloth, grill, netting, and fencing made of iron or steel wire, as well as expanded metal. The classification of expanded steel is determined by its unique manufacturing process, which distinguishes it from other types of mesh or grill. Expanded metal is produced by taking a solid sheet or strip of iron or steel and passing it through a machine that simultaneously slits and stretches the material. This process expands the metal into a network of interconnected strands, typically forming diamond-shaped openings. Unlike woven wire (7314.12) or welded wire (7314.20), expanded metal is made from a single piece of material without any joins, welds, or weaves. This structural characteristic provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for industrial applications such as walkways, safety barriers, and reinforcement in concrete. Subheading 7314.50 is the specific destination for this material regardless of whether it is in rolls or sheets, and regardless of whether it has been further processed by flattening or coating. It is critical to differentiate expanded metal from perforated metal. Perforated metal is created by punching holes out of a sheet, which results in a loss of material, whereas expanded metal is created by stretching, which results in no material waste.

Products Included

• Expanded steel mesh
• Diamond mesh steel sheets
• Raised expanded metal
• Flattened expanded steel

Common Misclassification

Expanded steel is often misclassified as welded wire mesh (7314.20) or woven cloth (7314.14). However, the lack of separate wires joined together makes 7314.50 the only correct code. It is also confused with perforated steel, which is classified under 7210 or 7326 depending on the level of fabrication.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Expanded steel?

The HS code for expanded metal made of iron or steel is 7314.50.

Does the code change if the steel is galvanized?

No, expanded steel remains under 7314.50 even if it is galvanized, painted, or plastic-coated, as the manufacturing method (expanding) defines the subheading.