HS Code 2026 for Iron and Steel

HS Code for Iron and Steel: Complete Guide to Import, Export & Classification

HS code means Harmonized System code. It is an international classification system. It identifies products for customs purposes. HS codes for iron and steel fall under Chapter 72 and 73. These codes determine import duties. They also set export taxes. Understanding HS codes saves money on customs. It prevents legal issues during shipping. It helps businesses comply with regulations.

Why HS Codes Matter for Iron and Steel

HS codes are critical for: Calculating customs duties correctly. Reducing delays at borders. Accessing preferential trade agreements. Filing accurate import-export documentation. Meeting GST compliance in India. Avoiding penalties and confiscation. Getting accurate shipping quotes. Managing supply chain costs effectively.

Chapter 72: Iron and Steel (Raw Materials and Semi-Finished Products)

HS Code 7201: Pig Iron and Spiegeleisen

Definition: Pig iron comes from iron ore smelting. Spiegeleisen is pig iron with manganese. These are primary forms of iron.

Uses:

Steel manufacturing feedstock
Foundry applications
Industrial alloy production

GST Rate: 18%

Import Duty: Varies by country of origin

HS Code 7202: Ferro Alloys

What it includes:

Ferro-manganese
Ferro-chromium
Ferro-molybdenum
Silicon-based alloys

Industrial Applications:

Stainless steel production
Tool steel manufacturing
High-strength alloy creation
Specialty metal industries

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7203: Spongy Ferrous Products

Products Covered:

Direct reduced iron (DRI)
Sponge iron lumps
Sponge iron pellets
Primary iron forms

Key Characteristics:

Minimum 99.94% iron purity
Used for steel melting
High-grade iron production
Low phosphorus content

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7204: Ferrous Waste and Scrap

Classification includes:

Scrap iron and steel
Cast iron waste
Stainless steel scrap
Remelting ingot scraps
Metal turnings and shavings
Stamps and trimmings

Market Importance:

Crucial for recycling industry
Reduces raw material costs
Supports circular economy
Lowers production expenses

GST Rate: 18%[1]

HS Code 7205: Iron and Steel Powders

Forms Covered:

Iron powder
Steel powder granules
Atomized particles
Powder metallurgy applications

Uses:

Additive manufacturing
Surface coating applications
Magnetic material production
Chemical industry feedstock

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7206-7207: Semi-Finished Steel Products

HS 7206 includes:

Non-alloy steel ingots
Steel blooms and billets
Steel slabs and blanks

HS 7207 includes:

Semi-finished iron steel
Continuous cast products
Hot-rolled primary shapes

Common Dimensions:

Various cross-sections
Different thicknesses
Multiple weight ranges
Customizable specifications

GST Rate: 18%

Chapter 72: Flat-Rolled Steel Products

HS Code 7208-7209: Hot and Cold Rolled Steel

HS 7208: Hot-Rolled Flat Products

Width exceeding 600mm
Coiled or non-coiled forms
Various thickness ranges

HS 7209: Cold-Rolled Flat Products

Width of 600mm or more
Superior surface finish
Tighter tolerances

Current Tariff Alert (2026):

12% safeguard duty applies
Duration: April 21, 2025 to April 20, 2028
Year 1: 12%, Year 2: 11.5%, Year 3: 11%
Exemptions for stainless and electrical steel
China, Vietnam, Nepal subject to duty
Price thresholds protect higher-value imports

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7210-7212: Coated and Plated Sheets

HS 7210: Clad, Plated, or Coated Sheets

Tin-plated products
Zinc coated materials
Paint-coated sheets
Chrome-plated varieties

HS 7211: Narrow Flat Products

Width less than 600mm
Hot or cold-rolled
Various surface treatments
Industrial applications

HS 7212: Narrow Coated Products

Width under 600mm
Clad or plated surfaces
Specialized coatings
Protective finishes

GST Rate: 18%

Long Products: Bars, Rods, and Wire

HS Code 7213: Hot-Rolled Bars and Rods

Characteristics:

Coiled in irregularly wound coils
Non-alloy steel composition
Hot-rolled only processing
Standard grades available

Sizes Available:

Various diameters
Customizable lengths
Different surface conditions
Strength specifications

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7214: Other Bars and Rods

Product Range:

Forged bars
Hot-drawn bars
Hot-extruded products
Bar-twisted varieties
Spring steel bars
Free-cutting grades

Quality Grades:

Spring steel quality
Standard carbon steel
Free-cutting steel
Specialty alloys

GST Rate: 18%[1]

HS Code 7215: Other Processed Bars and Rods

Processing Options:

Cold-finished bars
Polished rods
Ground surfaces
Turned and finished
Further processed

Applications:

Mechanical engineering
Precision components
Tool manufacturing
Automotive parts

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7216: Angles, Shapes, and Sections

Product Types:

Angle sections
Channel sections
I-beams and H-beams
T-sections
L-angles
Structural shapes

Dimensions:

Height specifications
Different thicknesses
Various material grades
Standardized sizes

Building Applications:

Construction frameworks
Structural support
Infrastructure projects
Industrial structures

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7217: Wire of Iron and Steel

Wire Types:

Plain wire
Drawn wire
Galvanized wire
Coated varieties
Special grades

Sizes Available:

Various gauges
Different thicknesses
Multiple lengths
Coil or spool forms

GST Rate: 18%

Stainless Steel Products (Premium Category)

HS Code 7218: Stainless Steel Ingots and Semi-Finished Products

Product Categories:

7218.10: Ingots and Primary Forms

Stainless steel ingots
Blooms and billets
Slabs and blanks
Primary cast forms

7218.91-99: Semi-Finished Products

Rectangular cross-sections
Round billets
Various shapes
Intermediate forms

Key Grades Available:

304 stainless steel
316 stainless steel
430 stainless steel
Duplex grades
Super-duplex varieties

End Applications:

Construction materials
Automotive components
Kitchenware production
Petrochemical equipment
Medical device manufacturing

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7219: Flat-Rolled Stainless Steel (≥600mm Width)

Product Forms:

Hot-Rolled Stainless Steel

Coiled forms
Non-coiled sheets and plates
Various thicknesses
Surface finishes

Cold-Rolled Stainless Steel

Superior finish quality
Tighter tolerances
Enhanced appearance
Precise dimensions

Thickness Classifications:

HS Code	Thickness Range	Application
7219.32	>4.75mm to ≤10mm	Structural, heavy-duty applications
7219.33	>3mm to ≤4.75mm	Standard industrial use
7219.34	>1mm to ≤3mm	Precision components
7219.35	<1mm	Thin foil and decorative

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7220: Flat-Rolled Stainless Steel (<600mm Width)

Narrow Strip Products

Width under 600mm
Hot or cold-rolled
Various thicknesses
Specialized grades

Industrial Uses:

Precision strips
Automotive applications
Medical components
Electrical equipment

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7221-7223: Stainless Steel Bars, Rods, and Wire

HS 7221: Hot-Rolled Bars

Coiled irregular forms
Standard stainless grades
Various diameters

HS 7222: Other Stainless Bars and Rods

Hot-drawn varieties
Hot-extruded products
Angles and sections
Cold-finished options

HS 7223: Stainless Steel Wire

Plain wire
Polished finishes
Various gauges
Coil or spool form

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7224-7229: Alloy Steel Products

Product Coverage:

High-strength alloy steel
Tool steel ingots
Special alloy compositions
Superalloys

HS 7225-7226: Alloy Flat Products

Silicon-electrical steel
Flat-rolled alloy sheets
Various thicknesses
Width specifications

HS 7227-7229: Alloy Bars, Rods, and Wire

Tool steel bars
High-speed steel rods
Specialized alloy wire
Premium grades

GST Rate: 18%

Chapter 73: Articles of Iron and Steel (Finished Products)

HS Code 7301: Sheet Piling and Welded Sections

Product Types:

Sheet piling materials
Welded angles
Welded channels
Welded structural shapes
Building elements

Construction Uses:

Retaining walls
Dam structures
Waterfront projects
Infrastructure development

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7302: Railway and Tramway Track Materials

Components Included:

Railway rails
Check-rails and rack rails
Switch blades
Crossing frogs
Point rods
Sleepers (cross-ties)
Fish-plates
Chair elements
Sole plates

Strategic Importance:

Railway network expansion
Transportation infrastructure
Government procurement
Large-scale projects

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7303-7306: Tubes and Pipes

HS 7303: Cast Iron Tubes

Rain water pipes
Soil pipes
Spun pipes
Industrial applications

HS 7304: Seamless Steel Pipes

Oil and gas pipelines
Drill pipes
Casing tubes
High-pressure applications
Stainless steel varieties

HS 7305-7306: Welded Pipes

Large diameter pipes (>406.4mm external)
Longitudinally welded tubes
Welded fittings
Line pipe for oil/gas
ERW precision tubes

Applications:

Petroleum industry
Plumbing systems
HVAC installations
Structural support
Water distribution
Gas transmission

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7307: Tube and Pipe Fittings

Fitting Types:

Couplings
Elbows and bends
Sleeves
Flanges
Threaded fittings
Welding fittings
Cast fittings
Stainless steel fittings

Connection Methods:

Threaded connections
Welded joints
Flanged assemblies
Butt-welded fittings
Socket fittings

Industrial Usage:

Plumbing systems
Industrial piping networks
Equipment assembly
Mechanical installations
Oil and gas operations

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7308: Steel Structures and Building Elements

Products Covered:

Bridges and bridge sections
Lock gates
Towers and lattice masts
Roofing frameworks
Doors and windows
Door and window frames
Thresholds
Prefabricated components
Escalator parts
Structural assemblies

Construction Applications:

High-rise buildings
Bridges
Industrial plants
Infrastructure projects
Commercial structures

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7309-7311: Containers and Tanks

HS 7309: Large Containers (>300 liters)

Reservoirs
Large tanks
Vats
Industrial containers
Storage vessels

HS 7310: Medium Containers (≤300 liters)

50L+ capacity drums
Soldering-type cans
Boxes and cases
Packaging containers
Portable tanks

HS 7311: Compressed Gas Containers

LPG cylinders
Oxygen bottles
Nitrogen cylinders
High-pressure vessels
Low-pressure containers

GST Rate: 18%

HS Code 7312-7326: Wire Products, Fasteners, and Household Articles

HS 7312: Wire Products

Stranded wire
Wire ropes (black, galvanized)
Cables
Plaited bands
Slings and assemblies

HS 7313: Barbed Wire and Fencing Wire

Barbed wire
Twisted hoop wire
Single flat wire
Fencing materials

HS 7314-7318: Nails, Screws, and Fasteners

Nails of all types
Screws
Bolts and nuts
Rivets and fasteners
Washers

HS 7319-7326: Household Articles and Tools

Kitchen utensils
Household goods
Hand tools
Agricultural implements
Miscellaneous articles

GST Rate: 18%

GST and Duty Structure for Iron and Steel

Goods and Services Tax (GST) Rates

Standard GST Rate: 18% on most iron and steel products

Applicable to:

Raw materials (Chapter 72)
Semi-finished products
Finished articles (Chapter 73)
Processed and coated varieties

No GST Cess: No additional cess on iron and steel products

Import Duties and Tariffs (2026)

Current Safeguard Duty (Effective January 2026):

Flat Steel Products Affected:

HS 7208: Hot-rolled flat products
HS 7209: Cold-rolled flat products
HS 7210: Clad and plated sheets
HS 7211: Narrow flat products
HS 7212: Narrow coated products
HS 7225: Alloy flat products (wide)
HS 7226: Alloy flat products (narrow)

Duty Rates:

Year 1 (April 2025-2026): 12%
Year 2 (April 2026-2027): 11.5%
Year 3 (April 2027-2028): 11%

Countries Affected:

China: Subject to duty
Vietnam: Subject to duty
Nepal: Subject to duty
Developed countries: Exempted
LDCs: Exempted

Exemptions from Safeguard Duty:

Stainless steel products
Electrical steel
Tinplate
Cold-rolled electrical steel
Special grades above price thresholds

Price Thresholds (Imports above these are exempted):

Hot-rolled coil (HRC): $675/t CIF
Hot-rolled plate mill plates: $695/t
Cold-rolled coils: $824/t
Metallic coated coils: $861/t
Colour coated coils: $964/t

Market Impact:

Domestic HRC price: ₹47,250/t ex-Mumbai (excluding GST)
Strong local industry protection
Price support for domestic producers
Competitiveness maintained

How to Classify Iron and Steel Products

Step-by-Step Classification Process

Step 1: Identify Product Category

Raw/primary form (HS 72XX)
Semi-finished products (HS 720X-721X)
Flat products (HS 7208-7212, 7219-7220)
Long products (HS 7213-7223)
Articles/finished goods (HS 73XX)

Step 2: Check Material Type

Non-alloy steel
Alloy steel
Stainless steel
Tool steel
Special grades

Step 3: Measure Product Dimensions

Width (especially 600mm threshold)
Thickness or diameter
Length if applicable
Weight specifications

Step 4: Assess Processing

Hot-rolled vs. cold-rolled
Coated or uncoated
Clad or plated
Finished or semi-finished

Step 5: Determine Surface Condition

Bright or pickled
Galvanized or zinc-coated
Tin-plated
Chrome-plated
Painted or enameled

Step 6: Verify with Official Tariff

Consult national customs authority
Check WCO HS guidelines
Review trade agreements
Confirm applicable duty rates

Key Distinctions in HS Code Classification

Width Matters: 600mm Threshold

Products ≥600mm Width:

HS 7208-7209: Flat-rolled products
HS 7219: Stainless flat products
HS 7225-7226: Alloy flat products (wide)

Products <600mm Width:

HS 7211: Narrow flat products
HS 7220: Narrow stainless products
HS 7226: Narrow alloy products

Impact: Different classification, duties, and pricing.

Thickness Ranges in Stainless Steel (HS 7219)

Ultra-Thin (HS 7219.35): <1mm thickness

Decorative applications
Specialty foil
Precision components

Thin (HS 7219.34): >1mm to ≤3mm

Precision engineering
Medical devices
Fine components

Medium (HS 7219.33): >3mm to ≤4.75mm

General industrial use
Construction
Automotive

Thick (HS 7219.32): >4.75mm to ≤10mm

Structural applications
Heavy-duty equipment
Infrastructure

Extra-Thick (HS 7219.91-99): >10mm

Massive structures
Heavy-load applications
Industrial equipment

Documentation Required for Iron and Steel Imports

Essential Import Documents

Commercial Documents:

Purchase order or contract
Proforma invoice
Final invoice
Packing list
Certificate of origin

Shipping Documents:

Bill of lading
Airway bill (if applicable)
Container numbers
Weight certificates
Dimensions documentation

Quality and Compliance:

Mill test certificate
Material composition report
Dimensional verification
Quality inspection report
Supplier certification

For Stainless Steel (Special Requirements):

Manufacturer’s invoice
Mill test certificate
Positive material identification (PMI) test report
Manufacturer’s declaration
Grade specification
Purchase order or contract

Customs Declaration:

Bill of entry
HS code classification
Declared value
Country of origin
Quantity and unit of measurement

Common Mistakes in HS Code Classification

Mistake 1: Ignoring the 600mm Width Threshold

Causes wrong HS code assignment
Results in incorrect duties
Creates customs delays
May lead to penalties

Solution: Measure width accurately. Verify against 600mm. Document dimensions clearly.

Mistake 2: Confusing Alloy Types

Non-alloy steel vs. alloy steel
Stainless steel specifications
Tool steel grades
Special alloy varieties

Solution: Obtain material certificates. Verify composition. Check specifications.

Mistake 3: Wrong Processing Classification

Hot-rolled vs. cold-rolled
Coated vs. uncoated
Clad vs. plated
Surface treatment variations

Solution: Examine product carefully. Get supplier documentation. Verify processing method.

Mistake 4: Overlooking Safety and Quality Standards

Indian Standards (IS codes)
Quality control requirements
BIS certification for some grades
Compliance documentation

Solution: Check if BIS license required. Submit quality certificates. Verify compliance.

Mistake 5: Neglecting Trade Duty Changes

Safeguard duties application
Price threshold exemptions
Country-specific duties
Periodic rate changes

Solution: Monitor customs notices. Track duty updates. Verify current rates. Plan imports strategically.

Impact of Safeguard Duties on Business

Cost Implications

Import Price Increase:

12% duty adds to landed cost
Affects competitiveness
Impacts supply chain economics
Influences pricing strategy

Exemption Opportunities:

Stainless steel imports unaffected
Products above price thresholds exempt
Sourcing from exempt countries possible
Alternative material specifications available

Business Strategy:

Shift to stainless steel grades
Source from exempt countries
Increase price thresholds strategy
Build local inventory

Best Practices for Iron and Steel Import-Export

1. Accurate Classification

Always verify HS codes
Consult classification guidelines
Obtain expert confirmation
Document the reasoning

2. Complete Documentation

Prepare all required forms
Gather quality certificates
Maintain supplier documents
Keep organized records

3. Current Duty Awareness

Monitor tariff updates
Track duty changes
Plan imports strategically
Budget for duties

4. Supplier Verification

Confirm material specifications
Request test certificates
Verify quality standards
Check BIS compliance

5. Customs Compliance

File accurate declarations
Report correct values
Use proper HS codes
Meet all deadlines

6. Trade Agreement Utilization

Explore preferential rates
Check country-of-origin rules
Use free trade agreements
Optimize tariff benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between HS 7204 and HS 7206?

HS 7204 covers scrap and waste iron/steel used for recycling. HS 7206 covers primary ingots and semi-finished new steel products. HS 7204 is for recycled material; HS 7206 is for virgin material.

Q2: Is stainless steel HS 7218 covered by safeguard duties?

No. Stainless steel products including HS 7218 are exempt from the current 12% safeguard duties. Only non-alloy and specific alloy products are affected.

Q3: How do I know if my steel needs GST at 18%?

Most iron and steel products under Chapter 72 and 73 have 18% GST. Verify with your tax professional. Check the applicable HSN codes for your specific product.

Q4: What’s the difference between HS 7219 and HS 7220?

HS 7219 covers stainless flat products ≥600mm width. HS 7220 covers stainless products <600mm width. Width is the determining factor.

Q5: Do I need BIS license to import stainless steel?

For certain HS codes and grades, yes. Check if your specific product falls under the Quality Control Order by Ministry of Steel. Obtain BIS certification if required. Consult customs authority.

Q6: What documents are mandatory for steel imports?

Bill of entry, invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, material test certificates, and shipping documents. For stainless steel, add PMI test reports and manufacturer’s declaration.

Conclusion

HS codes for iron and steel determine import duties, GST, and regulatory compliance. Chapter 72 covers raw and semi-finished steel. Chapter 73 covers finished articles.

Understanding these codes saves money. It prevents customs delays. It ensures legal compliance.

The 600mm width threshold and thickness ranges are critical. Stainless steel gets separate classification. Safeguard duties currently apply to specific products.

Stay updated on tariff changes. Maintain complete documentation. Verify classifications accurately.

Proper HS code classification protects your business. It optimizes costs. It ensures smooth international trade operations.

Additional Resources

WCO Harmonized System: www.wcoomd.org
Indian Customs: www.cbic.gov.in
Ministry of Steel, India: www.steel.gov.in
DGFT India: dgft.gov.in
Customs Tariff Schedule: Check your country’s specific schedules

Last Updated: January 2026

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only. Consult customs authorities and tax professionals for specific classification and duty determinations. HS codes and tariffs are subject to change without notice.

Suresh Prasad

Suresh Prasad is a trusted author and expert in Indian Taxation and Corporate Law, simplifying complex legal topics for professionals, students, and businesses. Follow him on LinkedIn and X(Twitter).

March 6, 2023

in HS Code

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