HS Code for Hot-rolled steel sections

The classification of hot-rolled steel sections under HS code 7216.50 is determined by the material composition, the manufacturing process, and the specific geometric profile of the product. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) and Chapter 72 Note 1(n), these products are defined as angles, shapes, and sections that do not have a cross-section in the shape of a circle, segment of a circle, oval, isosceles triangle, rectangle, hexagon, octagon, or quadrilateral. The material must be iron or non-alloy steel, meaning it must meet the chemical composition limits specified in Note 1(f) to Chapter 72, which restricts the presence of alloying elements like chromium, nickel, or molybdenum. The manufacturing process is strictly limited to hot-rolling, hot-drawing, or extrusion. This subheading serves as a residual category for profiles that are not elsewhere specified (n.e.c.) in the more specific subheadings of 7216, such as standard U, I, H, L, or T sections. If the section has been further worked than hot-rolling, such as by cold-finishing or cladding, it would be excluded from this specific code. The technical distinction relies on the fact that these sections are not further worked and maintain the metallurgical properties resulting from the hot-working process.

Products Included

• Bulb angles used in shipbuilding
• Specialized Z-sections for construction
• Hot-rolled omega sections
• Asymmetric hot-rolled profiles for industrial machinery
• Hot-rolled track sections for heavy equipment

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with subheadings 7216.10 through 7216.40. Those codes are reserved for standard shapes like U, I, H, L, and T sections with specific height measurements. For example, an L-section with a height of less than 80 mm must be classified under 7216.21, not 7216.50. Additionally, if the steel contains alloying elements exceeding the limits in Chapter Note 1(f), it must be classified under heading 7228. Another common error involves cold-formed sections, which belong under 7216.61 or 7216.69 depending on the starting material.

FAQ

What is the HS code for hot-rolled steel sections?

The HS code for hot-rolled, hot-drawn, or extruded iron or non-alloy steel sections not specified elsewhere is 7216.50.

Does 7216.50 include galvanized steel sections?

No, if the steel section is galvanized (zinc-coated), it is considered further worked and is typically classified under 7216.91 or 7216.99, depending on the nature of the coating and the shape.