nylon lock nut
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7318160030 | 67.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7318160085 | 67.5% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π© Nylon Lock Nut (Steel Base with Nylon Insert)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Compliance Strategy
π I. Product Definition: What Exactly is a "Nylon Lock Nut"?
A Nylon Lock Nut (also known as a Nylon Insert Lock Nut or Nyloc Nut) is a mechanical fastener designed to resist loosening under vibration and dynamic loads. It consists of two main components:
- Steel Body: A hexagonal nut made of iron or steel, which provides the structural strength and threading.
- Nylon Collar: A non-cylindrical nylon insert (collar) embedded in one end of the nut. When tightened, the nylon deforms and grips the bolt threads, providing friction lock.
β οΈ Critical Classification Distinction:
- Despite containing nylon, the primary function is mechanical fastening via the steel structure.
- According to the Harmonized System (HS), articles of iron or steel with minor components (like nylon inserts) are classified under Chapter 73 (Articles of Iron or Steel), NOT Chapter 39 (Plastics).
- Key Identifier: If the nylon is merely an insert for locking purposes, it falls under HS 7318.16.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority)
Based on the provided data, the correct HS Codes for Nylon Lock Nuts are within the subheading for Nuts under Iron or Steel.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicability | Component Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
7318.16.00.30 |
Threaded articles: Nuts Lugnuts / Locking | Specific for Locking Nuts (including Nylon Lock Nuts, Flange Nuts with locking features) | β Steel Body + Nylon Insert |
7318.16.00.85 |
Threaded articles: Nuts Other / Other | General hex nuts, slotted nuts, or locking nuts not specifically classified as "Lugnuts" or standard "Locking" in some jurisdictions | β
Steel Body + Nylon Insert (if not 30) |
π Key Reminder:
- Nylon Lock Nuts are explicitly categorized under "Locking" nuts in many classification systems.
- Use7318.16.00.30if the product is specifically marketed and documented as a "Locking Nut" (Nyloc).
- Use7318.16.00.85if the classification system distinguishes "Locking" from "Other" and your product does not meet the strict definition of "Lugnuts/Locking" in the specific customs territory, though7318.16.00.30is more precise for standard Nylon Lock Nuts.
- Do NOT classify under Chapter 39 (Plastics) or Chapter 73 subheadings for "Washers" or "Bolts".
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Country of Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: 2025/2026 (Subject to current trade policies)
π― 1. HS Code 7318.16.00.30 & 7318.16.00.85
(Steel Nuts: Locking / Other)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 0.0% (General MFN rate for many steel hardware items) |
| Section 301 Additional Duty | +7.5% (Standard 301 tariff for certain steel articles) |
| Steel, Aluminum, Copper Products Additional Duty | +50% (Under recent USITC actions targeting specific steel/aluminum products from China) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 57.5% |
| Calculation Basis | CIF Value Γ 57.5% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Eligible (Steel articles from China are excluded from de minimis relief under current 301 rules) |
| Legal Authority Path | USITC:7318.16 β SECTION_301:Footnote β IEEPA:Steel_Aluminum_Additional |
π Explanation:
- The 57.5% rate is derived from the combination of the base 0% + 7.5% (Section 301) + 50% (Specific Steel/Aluminum Additional Duty).
- Note: The 50% duty applies specifically to "Steel, Aluminum, Copper products" subject to recent trade actions. Since Nylon Lock Nuts are primarily steel, they fall under this high-tariff bracket.
- This is a HIGH-COST product for import from China into the US.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Risk Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Documentation Checklist (Mandatory)
| Document | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state: "Steel Lock Nuts with Nylon Insert", Material: 100% Steel/Nylon, HS Code: 7318.16.00.30 |
| β Product Specifications | βοΈ | Include size, thread pitch, grade (e.g., Grade 8, Stainless Steel), and nylon material type (e.g., PA66). |
| β Material Test Report | βοΈ | Certify that the body is Iron/Steel (not plastic) to justify HS 7318. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Net weight and gross weight must match invoice. |
| β Country of Origin Certificate | βοΈ | Essential for determining applicability of 301/50% tariffs. |
β 2. Classification Strategy (Key Tips)
π₯ Golden Rule: "Steel is Key, Nylon is Minor!"
- Do NOT declare as "Plastic Nuts" or "Composite Fasteners".
- Declare as "Steel Lock Nuts with Nylon Insert".
- HS Code Choice: Prefer7318.16.00.30for "Locking" nuts to align with product function. If uncertain, consult with a customs broker to confirm local interpretation of "Locking" vs. "Other".
β 3. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| β Declaring as "Plastic Nuts" (HS 3926) | Misclassification: High risk of penalty, back taxes, and audit. Steel is the primary material. |
| β Ignoring the 50% Steel Duty | Overpayment Risk: If declared under a non-steel HS code incorrectly, you might face audits. Conversely, if declared under a lower-tariff code by mistake, you face penalties. |
| β Using Generic Terms like "Nuts" | Customs Delay: Vague descriptions lead to holds. Always specify "Nylon Insert Lock Nut". |
β 4. Special Considerations
- Origin Diversification:
If the 57.5% tariff is too high, consider sourcing from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand where different tariff rates (or exemptions) may apply. - Pre-Ruling Application:
Apply for a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Binding Ruling to confirm the classification and tariff rate for your specific product before shipment. - De Minimis Exclusion:
Be aware that shipments under $800 (Section 321) DO NOT apply to these steel articles from China due to 301 exclusions. All shipments are subject to duty.
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Country/Region | HS Code | Tariff Rate (China Origin) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 7318.16.00.30 |
57.5% (Base 0% + 301 7.5% + Steel Add. 50%) | Strict material verification |
| πͺπΊ EU | 7318.16 |
0% (Most FTA partners) + Standard Import Duty | CE marking if applicable |
| π¨π³ China | 7318.16 |
Varies (Check latest Chinese tariff book) | CCC if used in safety-critical apps |
| π¨π¦ Canada | 7318.16 |
0% (If under CUSMA/USMCA rules, but note origin) | Origin certificate required |
π Conclusion:
- USA is the most expensive market for Nylon Lock Nuts from China due to the 50% additional steel duty.
- EU and Canada offer significantly lower tariffs, making them more competitive if supply chain allows.
π VI. Final Recommendations
π― Action Plan:
- Confirm Material: Ensure the product is >50% steel by weight to justify HS 7318.
- Use Correct HS: Declare as
7318.16.00.30(Locking Nuts) for precision. - Calculate Landed Cost: Include 57.5% tariff in your pricing model for US imports.
- Explore Alternatives:
- If cost is prohibitive, consider sourcing from non-China countries.
- Or, explore duty drawback programs if the nuts are re-exported.
β οΈ Warning:
"57.5% is a high barrier. Do not underestimate the impact on your margin. Plan your supply chain accordingly!"
β¨ Professional Clearance, Start with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every cent saved on duty is pure profit!
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.