HS Code for Tinplate

Tinplate classified under HS code 7210.12 refers to flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel. To qualify for this specific subheading, the material must have a width of 600 mm or more and be plated or coated with tin. Furthermore, the thickness must be strictly less than 0.5 mm. This classification is determined by the base metal composition, the specific coating material (tin), the physical dimensions (width), and the gauge (thickness). The Harmonized System distinguishes between various thicknesses of tin-coated steel, making the 0.5 mm threshold a critical technical boundary for customs declarations. These products are typically used in the packaging industry, particularly for food and beverage cans, due to their corrosion resistance and formability.

Products Included

• Electrolytic tinplate (ETP) sheets
• Hot-dipped tin-coated steel coils
• Tin-plated steel for beverage can manufacturing
• Lacquered tinplate (if the primary coating is tin)
• Single reduced and double reduced tinplate under 0.5mm

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with HS code 7210.11, which covers tinplate with a thickness of 0.5 mm or more. Another common error involves HS code 7212.10, which applies to tin-plated products with a width of less than 600 mm. Additionally, if the steel is coated with chromium oxides or chromium and polyethylene, it should be classified under 7210.50 (TFS - Tin Free Steel) rather than 7210.12.

FAQ

What is the HS code for tinplate?

The HS code for tinplate with a width of 600mm or more and a thickness of less than 0.5mm is 7210.12.

Does 7210.12 include printed tinplate?

Yes, as long as the primary characteristic remains tin-coated steel under 0.5mm thickness, printed or lacquered versions are generally included here unless the coating changes the essential character to a different material.