Find HS Code and trade information for steel tape measure

Steel Tape Measure

A steel tape measure is a flexible ruler used to measure distance. It consists of a length of steel ribbon coiled within a case. The ribbon is marked with graduations indicating units of measurement – typically inches, feet, and metric units.

Material:

The core component is a strip of spring steel, providing flexibility and resilience. The case is commonly constructed from plastic, metal (aluminum or steel), or a combination of both, offering protection and durability. Graduation markings are typically etched or printed onto the steel ribbon, often with a protective coating for longevity.

Purpose:

The primary purpose is accurate distance measurement in a variety of applications.

Function:

A spring mechanism retracts the steel tape into the case. A locking mechanism allows the tape to be extended to the desired length and held in place. A hook or clip at the end of the tape allows for securing it to an object or for measurement from an internal edge. Some models include features like a magnetic hook for use with ferrous metals.

Usage Scenarios:

• Construction: Measuring building dimensions, materials, and layouts.
• Carpentry: Cutting wood, determining sizes for projects, and ensuring accurate fits.
• Home Improvement: Room measurements for flooring, wallpaper, furniture placement, and general DIY tasks.
• Sewing & Tailoring: Taking body measurements and fabric dimensions.
• Landscaping: Measuring garden areas, fencing lengths, and plant spacing.
• Surveying: Basic distance measurements, often as a component of larger surveying tools.

Common Types:

• Manual Tape Measures: The most common type, relying on a spring mechanism for retraction and a thumb lock for holding the tape. Available in various lengths (e.g., 12ft, 16ft, 25ft, 35ft).
• Self-Locking Tape Measures: Feature an automatic locking mechanism that engages when the tape is extended, providing hands-free measurement.
• Digital Tape Measures: Utilize electronic sensors to display measurements on a digital screen. Offer features like unit conversion and memory functions.
• Cloth Tape Measures (Tailor's Tape): Flexible and non-rigid, typically used for measuring curved surfaces and body dimensions. Usually made of fiberglass or vinyl-coated fabric.
• Long Tape Measures (e.g., 100ft): Used for longer distances, often employed by surveyors and landscapers. May be open reel or wound in a case.
• Laser Distance Measures: While not strictly "steel tape measures," they are often used as alternatives for measuring distances, particularly for longer ranges and hard-to-reach areas. They utilize laser technology instead of a physical tape.

Steel tape measures fall under several potential classifications based on their specific features and applications. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes based on the provided reference material:

• 9017.30.40.00: This HS code covers drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments; instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand (for example, measuring rods and tapes, micrometers, calipers). Specifically, it refers to micrometers, calipers and gauges. A steel tape measure, being a handheld length measuring instrument, aligns with this classification.

  • 90: Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; clocks and watches; musical instruments (parts and accessories thereof).
  • 17: Instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand (for example, measuring rods and tapes, micrometers, calipers).
  • 30: Micrometers, calipers and gauges.
  • 40: Micrometers and calipers.

• 9017.30.80.00: This HS code also falls under drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments; instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand. However, it covers "Other" instruments within this category. If the steel tape measure doesn't precisely fit the description of micrometers or calipers, this code may be applicable.

  • 90: Optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; clocks and watches; musical instruments (parts and accessories thereof).
  • 17: Instruments for measuring length, for use in the hand (for example, measuring rods and tapes, micrometers, calipers).
  • 30: Micrometers, calipers and gauges.
  • 80: Other.

• 8307.10.30.00: This HS code covers flexible tubing of base metal, with or without fittings, specifically of iron or steel with fittings. If the steel tape measure is constructed as a flexible steel tape with a casing or other fittings, this code could be relevant.

  • 83: Miscellaneous manufactured articles of base metal.
  • 07: Flexible tubing of base metal, with or without fittings.
  • 10: Of iron or steel.
  • 30: With fittings.

• 8307.10.60.00: Similar to the above, this HS code covers flexible tubing of base metal, with or without fittings, specifically of iron or steel without fittings. If the steel tape measure is constructed as a flexible steel tape without a casing or other fittings, this code could be relevant.

  • 83: Miscellaneous manufactured articles of base metal.
  • 07: Flexible tubing of base metal, with or without fittings.
  • 10: Of iron or steel.
  • 60: Other.

Regarding HS code 9017.30.40.00 and 9017.30.80.00, it's important to determine whether the steel tape measure functions primarily as a precise measuring instrument (like a caliper) or a general length-measuring tool.