Product classification
HS code for Steel scaffolding props: 7308.40
Iron or steel, structures and parts thereof, props and similar equipment for scaffolding, shuttering or pit-propping.
Classification of steel scaffolding props under HS 7308.40
Steel scaffolding props are classified under HS code 7308.40. This classification is situated within heading 7308, which covers structures and parts of structures of iron or steel. The subheading 7308.40 is specifically dedicated to equipment for scaffolding, shuttering, or pit-propping. These products are identified by their structural utility in construction, civil engineering, and mining. Unlike basic tubes or pipes, scaffolding props are engineered components designed to provide vertical support. They often feature adjustable mechanisms, such as threaded collars, pins, and base plates, which allow for precise height adjustments and load-bearing stability. Under the General Rules of Interpretation, the functional design for shoring and support roles necessitates classification here rather than under general steel articles. The material must be iron or steel, and the items must be "prepared for use in structures," meaning they have been worked or fitted with components that define their specific application in the construction industry.
- Covers
- Adjustable steel props (Acrow props)
- Telescopic shoring towers and supports
- Trench struts for excavation support
- Formwork props and shuttering equipment
- Heavy-duty pit-propping equipment for mining
- Also under 7308.40
- PERI scaffolding systems
- Doka formwork systems
- Layher scaffolding
- Hünnebeck shoring equipment
Codes often confused with 7308.40
Common mistake. A frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 7306, which covers general-purpose tubes and pipes. While a prop is made from a tube, its specialized fittings for scaffolding move it to 7308.40. Another error involves HS code 8425, which covers jacking systems. While props support loads, they are static structural elements rather than mechanical lifting machinery. Furthermore, finished structural sections that are not specifically for scaffolding or propping should be classified under 7308.90.
Top exporters and importers of HS 730840 (the code used for steel scaffolding props), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 730840 (the code used for steel scaffolding props) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 6.6% 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 730840, not only steel scaffolding props.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $2.0B 29% of world exports
- 2 Germany $1.1B 17% of world exports
- 3 India $415M 6.0% of world exports
World total: $7.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Germany $477M 6.6% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$407M 5.7% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 United States $382M 5.3% of world imports
World total: $7.2B 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 steel scaffolding props
Brazil classifies steel scaffolding props under NCM 7308.40.00: HS 7308.40 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 steel scaffolding props
What is the HS code for Steel scaffolding props?
The HS code for Steel scaffolding props is 730840 (Iron or steel; structures and parts thereof, props and similar equipment for scaffolding, shuttering or pit-propping). The correct HS code for steel scaffolding props and similar shoring equipment is 7308.40. This code is recognized internationally for customs and trade statistics.
How do I classify Steel scaffolding props for customs?
Steel scaffolding props is classified under HS code 730840 — Iron or steel; structures and parts thereof, props and similar equipment for scaffolding, shuttering or pit-propping. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are plain steel tubes for scaffolding classified under 7308.40?
No, plain steel tubes that have not been further worked or fitted with specialized scaffolding components are typically classified under heading 7306 as tubes or pipes.
Which countries are the top exporters of steel scaffolding props (HS 730840)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 730840 (the code used for steel scaffolding props) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.0B, 29% of world exports), Germany ($1.1B) and India ($415M). World exports came to about $7.0B, 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 steel scaffolding props (HS 730840)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 730840 (the code used for steel scaffolding props) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($477M, 6.6% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $407M) and the United States ($382M). World imports came to about $7.2B, 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 Steel scaffolding props the same in all countries?
The base HS code 730840 for Steel scaffolding props 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 steel scaffolding props in Brazil?
In Brazil, steel scaffolding props (HS 730840) is classified under NCM 7308.40.00.