Product classification

HS code for Stud link chain: 7315.81

Chain, stud-link chain, of iron or steel.

Classification of stud link chain under HS 7315.81

Stud link chain is classified under HS code 7315.81. This classification is found within Chapter 73, which covers articles of iron or steel. Heading 7315 specifically addresses chains and parts thereof. The subheading 7315.81 is reserved for "stud-link" chain, a specialized type of heavy-duty chain where each link contains a transverse bar, or "stud," across its center. This design is a critical engineering feature that prevents the links from stretching or deforming under extreme tension. It also prevents the chain from kinking or knotting, which is vital for maritime safety. Because the HS system classifies goods based on their physical characteristics and construction, the presence of this stud is the primary factor for its placement in 7315.81. These chains are most commonly used in the shipping industry for anchor cables and offshore mooring systems.

Covers
  • Marine anchor stud link chain
  • Offshore mooring stud link chain
  • High-tensile steel stud link chain
  • Grade 2 and Grade 3 ship anchor chains
  • Studded steel link chains for heavy lifting
Also under 7315.81
  • Vicinay Marine anchor chains
  • Ramnäs Bruk mooring chains
  • Fincantieri ship chains
  • DCL Mooring & Rigging chains

Codes often confused with 7315.81

Common mistake. The most frequent misclassification is with HS code 7315.82, which covers "other" welded link chains. If a chain is welded but lacks the internal stud, it must be classified under 7315.82, even if it is used for similar maritime purposes. Another common error is using 7315.11, which is reserved for roller chains (like those used on bicycles or industrial machinery). Stud link chains are distinct because they are typically forged and welded link-by-link rather than being assembled from pins and rollers.

7315.82Chain; welded link chain, of iron or steel7315.11Chain; articulated link, roller, of iron or steel

Top exporters and importers of HS 731581 (the code used for stud link chain), 2025

In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 731581 (the code used for stud link chain) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 79% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 10% 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 731581, not only stud link chain.

Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports

  1. 1 China $257M
  2. 2 Singapore $13M
  3. 3 Netherlands $8.2M

World total: $324M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗

Top importers 2025 · share of world imports

  1. 1 Japan $22M
  2. 2 Australia $15M
  3. 3 Vietnam* ~$14M

World total: $219M 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 stud link chain

Brazil classifies stud link chain under NCM 7315.81.00: HS 7315.81 with 00 added.

Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.

Questions about stud link chain

What is the HS code for Stud link chain?

The HS code for Stud link chain is 731581 (Chain; stud-link chain, of iron or steel). The HS code for stud link chain made of iron or steel is 7315.81.

How do I classify Stud link chain for customs?

Stud link chain is classified under HS code 731581 — Chain; stud-link chain, of iron or steel. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Why is the stud important for classification?

The stud is a specific structural feature that distinguishes this chain from standard welded link chains, leading to its unique classification under 7315.81.

Which countries are the top exporters of stud link chain (HS 731581)?

In 2025, the top exporters of HS 731581 (the code used for stud link chain) in UN Comtrade data were China ($257M, 79% of world exports), Singapore ($13M) and the Netherlands ($8.2M). World exports came to about $324M, 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 stud link chain (HS 731581)?

In 2025, the top importers of HS 731581 (the code used for stud link chain) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($22M, 10% of world imports), Australia ($15M) and Vietnam (about $14M). World imports came to about $219M, 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 Stud link chain the same in all countries?

The base HS code 731581 for Stud link chain 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 stud link chain in Brazil?

In Brazil, stud link chain (HS 731581) is classified under NCM 7315.81.00.