Anti loosening Nut
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7318160030 | 67.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8487900080 | 88.9% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8487100080 | 35.0% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π© Anti-Loosening Nut (Lock Nut)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Compliance Strategy
π I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Truly Understand the "Anti-Loosening Nut"?
The Anti-Loosening Nut (often referred to as a Lock Nut or Self-Locking Nut) is a critical fastener designed to resist vibrational loosening. Unlike standard nuts, it incorporates features (such as deformed threads, nylon inserts, or metal teeth) that create friction or mechanical interference against the bolt.
In international trade, precise classification is vital because fasteners are subject to specific tariff treatments, especially under Section 301 (US) or other trade remedies.
β οΈ Key Distinction:
- If the nut is made of Iron or Steel and is a threaded article (most common): It falls under Chapter 73.
- If it contains Electrical features (rare for standard nuts): It might fall under Chapter 84 or 85.
- Crucial Note: The term "Anti-loosening" is a functional description, not a tariff term. Customs looks at the material and form. Most anti-loosening nuts are classified as Nuts.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Mapping)
Based on the provided data, the primary classification for standard iron/steel anti-loosening nuts is:
| HS Code | Product Description | Material | Specific Type | Tax Rate (China Origin -> US) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
7318.16.00.30 |
Nuts, Lugnuts: Locking (Anti-loosening) | Iron or Steel | Threaded Articles | 57.5% |
π Important Clarification:
- HS Code8487.90.00.80(78.9%): This is for Machinery Parts that do not contain electrical features and are not specified elsewhere. While a nut is a part, Chapter 73 (Articles of Iron/Steel) takes precedence over Chapter 84 for basic fasteners like nuts/bolts. Therefore,7318.16.00.30is the correct and lower-tariff classification for standard metal lock nuts.
- HS Code8487.10.00.80(25%): This is for Ship/Boat Propellers. This is NOT applicable to nuts unless they are specifically part of a propeller assembly and declared as such (highly unusual for general fasteners). Do not use this for generic nuts.
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Detailed Policy)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current rates apply as per the provided data.
π― 1. 7318.16.00.30 ββ Locking Nuts (Anti-Loosening), Iron/Steel
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Additional Tariff | +7.5% (Specific to this subheading) |
| Section 301 Steel/Aluminum/Copper Additional Tariff | +50% (If classified under specific steel/aluminum provisions) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 57.5% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 57.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (deny_de_minimis) |
| Legal Basis | Data indicates: Basic: 0.0% + Add-on: 7.5% + Steel/Al/Cu Add-on: 50% = 57.5% |
π Explanation:
- The 57.5% total rate is a combination of the base rate (0%), a specific Section 301 add-on (7.5%), and a broad Steel/Aluminum/Copper add-on (50%).
- This is a very high effective rate. Even though the base tariff is 0%, the additional duties make importing iron/steel fasteners from China significantly more expensive.
- No Exemptions: These goods are explicitly excluded from de minimis (Section 321) exemptions. Every single package is subject to duty.
π― 2. Why NOT 8487.90.00.80 (78.9%)?
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Description | Machinery Parts, not specified elsewhere |
| Base Tariff | 3.9% |
| Add-on | 25% (General) + 50% (Steel/Al/Cu) |
| Total | 78.9% |
| Reason for Rejection | Chapter 73 (Iron/Steel Articles) is more specific than Chapter 84 (Machinery Parts). Under GRI 3(b) and Chapter Notes, specific parts of iron/steel are classified in Ch. 73. Using Ch. 84 is incorrect and leads to a higher, unjustified tax. |
π― 3. Why NOT 8487.10.00.80 (25%)?
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Description | Ships' or boats' propellers |
| Total | 25.0% |
| Reason for Rejection | A nut is not a propeller. Misclassification here is fraudulent and carries severe penalties. |
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Document Checklist (Must-Haves)
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Lock Nut" or "Anti-Loosening Nut", not just "Nut" or "Hardware". |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail weight and count. |
| β Product Specification | βοΈ | Confirm material is Iron/Steel (not brass, bronze, or plastic). If it's brass, the HS Code changes (Chapter 74). |
| β Material Certification | βοΈ | Prove composition if challenged. |
| β Country of Origin | βοΈ | Must be China to apply the 57.5% rate accurately. |
β 2. Declaration Best Practices
π₯ "Material Matters, Function Defines, Code Precises!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Error to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Iron/Steel Lock Nut | 7318.16.00.30 (57.5%) |
Do NOT declare as "Machinery Part" (8487) to avoid scrutiny, but also don't under-declare. |
| Brass/Bronze Lock Nut | Not in Data | Likely falls under Ch. 74 (e.g., 7415.33). The 50% steel surcharge may not apply, potentially lowering tax. |
| Plastic Lock Nut | Not in Data | Likely Ch. 39 (Plastics). No steel surcharge. |
| Nut + Bolt Set | Declare separately | Fasteners and bolts may have different HS codes. Bundle them only if sold as a kit. |
β 3. Special Handling for "Anti-Loosening"
- Describe Accurately: Use terms like "Self-Locking Nut," "Nyloc Nut," or "Locking Lugnut."
- Avoid Vague Terms: Do not just write "Nut" or "Screw." This leads to customs classification errors and potential audits.
- Check Material Composition: If the nut is stainless steel, it is still "Iron/Steel" for HS purposes, but verify if any exemptions apply for specific stainless grades (rare).
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026 Context)
| Market | HS Code (Typical) | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 7318.16.00.30 |
57.5% | High Section 301 duties. Strict origin verification. |
| π¨π³ China | 7318.16.00 |
~0-5% | Standard import duties. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 7318.16 |
0-6.5% | No Section 301 equivalent. |
| π¬π§ UK | 7318.16 |
0-6.5% | Post-Brexit rules apply. |
π Insight: The US is uniquely harsh on Chinese steel fasteners. Consider third-country manufacturing (Vietnam, India, Thailand) if tariffs erode margins, as origins other than China may qualify for lower Section 301 rates.
π VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
β Mistake 1: Declaring all nuts as 8487.90.00.80 (78.9%)
π Consequence: Overpaying by ~21.4% compared to 7318.16.00.30.
π Fix: Always check Chapter 73 first for iron/steel fasteners.
β Mistake 2: Assuming "Anti-Loosening" gets a special low tariff
π Consequence: None. Function does not reduce duty; material determines the chapter.
π Fix: Focus on material (Iron/Steel) for correct HS.
β Mistake 3: Using De Minimis (Section 321) for small shipments
π Consequence: Goods seized. Section 301 goods are excluded from de minimis if they meet certain thresholds or are explicitly denied.
π Fix: Declare all shipments properly, regardless of value.
β Correct Declaration Example:
"IRON STEEL LOCKING NUTS (ANTI-LOOSENING), UNSPECIFIED MATERIAL OTHER THAN PLASTIC, MODEL: LOCK-NUT-304"
HS Code:7318.16.00.30
Duty: 57.5%
π― VII. Conclusion: Strategic Sourcing & Compliance
π― Key Takeaways:
πΉ Material is King: Iron/Steel nuts from China face a 57.5% total duty.
πΉ Chapter 73 over Chapter 84: Always use the specific fastener code (7318) instead of the generic machinery part code (8487) to ensure accuracy and potentially lower rates.
πΉ No Small Shipment Exemption: Even small parcels are taxed. Factor this into your pricing.
πΉ Consider Origin Diversification: If margins are tight, explore sourcing from non-Section 301 countries.
π Pro Tip:
For large volumes, consider applying for Exclusions under Section 301 (if applicable and available) or using Bonded Warehouses to defer duty payment. Always consult a licensed customs broker for pre-classification rulings.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Verify Material: Confirm if your nuts are Iron, Steel, Brass, or Plastic.
π Accurate Description: Use "Locking Nut" or "Anti-Loosening Nut" in all docs.
π° Calculate Landed Cost: Include the 57.5% duty in your pricing model.
β¨ Precision in Classification Saves Money in Clearance!
πΌ Every nut counts, every dollar matters!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.