Find HS Code and trade information for towing ropes and chains

Towing Ropes and Chains

Towing ropes and chains are mechanical components utilized to transfer force for the purpose of pulling or dragging an object, typically a vehicle or other heavy load. They are fundamental tools in recovery, transportation, and industrial applications.

Material

Both ropes and chains are manufactured from a variety of materials, each offering specific properties suited to different applications.

• Ropes:
  • Natural Fibers: (e.g., Manila, Sisal) Historically common, these ropes offer good grip but have lower tensile strength and are susceptible to rot and abrasion. Less frequently used in modern heavy-duty towing.
  • Synthetic Fibers: (e.g., Nylon, Polyester, Polypropylene, HMPE (High-Modulus Polyethylene - Dyneema/Spectra)) These are prevalent due to their high strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to abrasion, UV degradation, and chemicals. Nylon offers stretch, useful for absorbing shock loads. Polyester has lower stretch and is more resistant to UV. HMPE offers extremely high strength and low stretch, often used in specialized applications.
  • Steel Wire Rope: Constructed from multiple strands of steel wire, offering very high strength and durability, but are heavier and less flexible than synthetic ropes.
• Chains:
  • Alloy Steel: The most common material for towing chains, offering a balance of strength, durability, and cost. Different grades of alloy steel are used depending on the required load capacity.
  • Stainless Steel: Used in corrosive environments where rust prevention is critical.
  • High-Strength Alloy Chains: Specifically designed for demanding applications with exceptionally high load requirements.

Purpose

The primary purpose of towing ropes and chains is to connect a towing vehicle to a disabled or immobile object to facilitate movement. This includes:

• Vehicle Recovery: Pulling a stuck or broken-down vehicle from a ditch, mud, sand, or other obstacle.
• Transportation: Moving vehicles or equipment short distances.
• Industrial Applications: Used in construction, logging, shipping, and other industries for pulling and securing loads.
• Marine Applications: Anchoring, mooring, and towing boats.

Function

The function of a towing rope or chain relies on its tensile strength – its ability to withstand pulling force before breaking. Key functional aspects include:

• Load Transfer: Efficiently transferring the pulling force from the towing vehicle to the towed object.
• Shock Absorption: (Especially with ropes) Reducing the impact of sudden loads or jerks.
• Secure Connection: Maintaining a firm and reliable connection between the towing vehicle and the towed object.
• Controlled Pulling: Allowing for a controlled and gradual application of force.

Usage Scenarios

• Off-Road Recovery: Using synthetic ropes (often kinetic ropes) to pull vehicles from difficult terrain.
• Roadside Assistance: Towing vehicles to repair shops or safe locations.
• Construction Sites: Pulling heavy equipment or materials.
• Shipping and Logistics: Securing and moving cargo.
• Marine Operations: Towing vessels or anchoring boats.
• Logging Industry: Dragging felled trees.

Common Types

• Tow Ropes (Synthetic): Typically nylon or polyester, available in various diameters and lengths. Often feature loops or eyes for attachment. Kinetic ropes are a specialized type designed to stretch and store energy for a more powerful pull.
• Tow Straps (Synthetic): Flat, woven synthetic material, offering a wider surface area for distributing load.
• Steel Wire Ropes: Constructed from multiple strands of steel wire, offering high strength and durability. Often used with shackles and other hardware.
• Chain Slings: Used for lifting and securing loads, but can also be used for towing in certain applications.
• Tow Chains: Specifically designed for towing applications, available in various grades and sizes. Often feature hooks or other attachment points.
• Recovery Ropes: Designed for off-road recovery, often featuring a high elongation rate and specialized attachment points.
• Snatch Blocks: Pulleys used to increase pulling power and change the direction of pull.
• Shackles: Metal connectors used to attach ropes or chains to attachment points.

Based on the provided information, the declared goods "towing ropes and chains" can be classified as follows:

• 7312900000: This HS code covers stranded wire, ropes, cables, plaited bands, slings and the like, of iron or steel, not electrically insulated: Other. This is applicable to towing ropes made of iron or steel that are not electrically insulated.

  • 73: Chapter 73 covers articles of iron or steel.
  • 12: Heading 7312 specifically covers stranded wire, ropes, cables, plaited bands, and slings of iron or steel.
  • 900000: Subheading 7312900000 denotes "Other" within this category, encompassing ropes and slings not specifically classified elsewhere.

• 7315110005: This HS code covers Chain and parts thereof, of iron or steel: Articulated link chain and parts thereof: Roller chain For motor vehicles. This is applicable to towing chains designed for use with motor vehicles.

  • 73: Chapter 73 covers articles of iron or steel.
  • 15: Heading 7315 specifically covers chain and parts thereof.
  • 110005: Subheading 7315110005 denotes "Roller chain for motor vehicles".

• 7315120020: This HS code covers Chain and parts thereof, of iron or steel: Articulated link chain and parts thereof: Other chain Of not over 50 mm pitch and containing more than 3 parts per pitch. This is applicable to other types of towing chains, specifically those with a pitch not exceeding 50 mm and containing more than 3 parts per pitch.

  • 73: Chapter 73 covers articles of iron or steel.
  • 15: Heading 7315 specifically covers chain and parts thereof.
  • 120020: Subheading 7315120020 denotes "Other chain of not over 50 mm pitch and containing more than 3 parts per pitch".

Tax Rate Information:

According to the provided reference material, all listed HS codes have the following tax details:

• Basic Tariff: 0.0%
• Additional Tariff: 25.0%
• Post April 2, 2025 Additional Tariff: 30%
• Additional Tariff for Steel/Aluminum Products: 25%
• Total Tariff: 80.0%

Important Note:

The reference material indicates a total tariff of 80.0% for all listed HS codes. Please be aware of the additional tariffs applicable to steel and aluminum products, as well as the tariff changes scheduled for April 2, 2025.