steel self tapping screws diameter ≥ 6mm
CN → US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7318145080 | 93.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7318145020 | 93.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7318145020 | 93.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7318145080 | 93.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 7318145020 | 93.6% | CN | US | Official Doc |
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AI Analysis
🛠️ Steel Self-Tapping Screws (Diameter ≥ 6mm)
🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Strategic Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: What Exactly Are "Steel Self-Tapping Screws"?
Steel self-tapping screws are fasteners specifically designed to create their own thread in materials such as wood, plastic, or sheet metal without the need for a pre-tapped hole. In international trade, these are strictly categorized under Chapter 73 (Articles of Iron or Steel) because of their material composition.
Key Characteristics: * Material: Must be made of Steel (Iron or Steel). * Function: Self-tapping (creates thread upon insertion). * Specification: Diameter ≥ 6mm. * Form: Typically helical thread, pointed or blunt tip depending on application.
⚠️ Critical Distinction Point: - If the screw is made of Steel and diameter is ≥ 6mm → It falls under 7318.14. - If the screw is made of Non-Steel Metals (e.g., Copper, Aluminum) → It falls under different subheadings (e.g., 7318.15 or 7318.19). - If the diameter is < 6mm → It may fall under 7318.16 (Other screws and bolts).
📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)
Based on the provided data, the correct HS Codes for Steel Self-Tapping Screws with Diameter ≥ 6mm are:
| HS Code | Product Description | Material Specification | Diameter Requirement | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
7318.14.50.80 |
Steel Self-Tapping Screws | Steel | ≥ 6mm | ✅ Match (Material & Spec) |
7318.14.50.20 |
Steel Self-Tapping Screws | Steel/Iron | ≥ 6mm | ✅ Match (Size & Material Limit) |
7318.14.50.20 |
Steel Self-Tapping Screws | Steel/Iron | ≥ 6mm | ✅ Likely Match (No Conflict) |
7318.14.50.80 |
Steel Self-Tapping Screws | Steel | ≥ 6mm | ✅ Match (Encoded Description) |
7318.14.50.20 |
Steel Self-Tapping Screws | Steel/Iron | ≥ 6mm | ✅ Match (Material & Form) |
🔍 Key Reminder: - Both 7318.14.50.80 and 7318.14.50.20 apply to steel self-tapping screws ≥ 6mm. - The difference lies in specific national sub-codes (e.g., US HTSUS sub-codes). - Do not misclassify as nails, bolts, or screws < 6mm, as this leads to incorrect duty rates.
💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties & Policy Surcharges)
✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Country of Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: 2025+ (Current Trade Environment)
🎯 1. 7318.14.50.80 & 7318.14.50.20 —— Steel Self-Tapping Screws (≥ 6mm)
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff Rate | 8.6% (Ad Valorem) |
| Section 301 Surcharge | +25.0% (Retaliatory Tariff on Chinese Goods) |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% (Specific provision for certain steel/iron products) |
| Section 232/Steel Surcharge | +50.0% (Additional tariff on Steel, Aluminum, Copper products from China) |
| Total Tariff Rate | 93.6% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value × 93.6% |
| De Minimis Eligibility | ❌ Not Eligible (Highly restricted) |
| Legal Basis Path | USITC:7318.14.50 → Section 301:25% → Section 122:10% → Section 232:50% |
📌 Explanation: - Base Rate (8.6%): Standard USMFN duty for steel screws. - Section 301 (+25%): Standard retaliatory tariff on Chinese manufactured goods. - Section 122 (+10%): Applies to specific steel articles under trade remedy provisions. - Steel Surcharge (+50%): A significant additional tariff applied specifically to steel, aluminum, and copper products of Chinese origin. - Total: 93.6%: This is an extremely high combined duty rate. Importers must factor this into cost calculations immediately.
🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Missing Items = Delays)
| Document | Required | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Product Specification Sheet | ✔️ | Must clearly state: Material (Steel), Diameter (≥6mm), Length, Thread Type, Coating. |
| ✅ Commercial Invoice | ✔️ | Must list HS Code 7318.14.50.xx explicitly. Do not use generic "Hardware". |
| ✅ Packing List | ✔️ | Detail net/gross weight, number of boxes, pallet count. |
| ✅ Country of Origin Certificate | ✔️ | Proof of Chinese origin triggers the surcharges. |
| ✅ Material Test Report | ✔️ | To confirm "Steel" composition (not stainless steel or aluminum). |
| ✅ Bill of Lading/Air Waybill | ✔️ | Standard shipping documents. |
✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantra)
🔥 "Declare Steel, Declare Size, Declare Origin!"
| Scenario | Correct Declaration | Incorrect Action |
|---|---|---|
| Steel Screw, Ø6mm | 7318.14.50.20 or .80 |
Declare as "Bolts" → Wrong heading (7318.15) |
| Steel Screw, Ø5mm | 7318.16.xx |
Declare as ≥6mm → Over-declared duty |
| Stainless Steel Screw | 7318.15.xx |
Declare as "Steel" → Misclassification penalty |
| Aluminum Screw | 7318.19.xx |
Declare as "Steel" → Wrong material duty |
✅ 3. Special Handling Cases
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| Mixed Packaging (Screws + Nuts + Washers) | Declare main item (Screws) if >50% by value/weight. If mixed equally, consider splitting shipment. |
| OEM Branding | Ensure no brand-specific restrictions. Standard industrial screws are generally unrestricted except for tariffs. |
| High-Volume Bulk Import | Consider Section 232 Exclusions (if applicable) or duty drawback programs. However, with 93.6%, exclusions are rare for standard self-tappers. |
| Transshipment | Do NOT transship through Vietnam/Malaysia to mask Chinese origin. US CBP conducts strict Anti-Circumvention Investigations. |
🌍 V. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff (China Origin) | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | 7318.14.50.xx |
93.6% | No specific cert, but strict origin enforcement | Highest Cost Market |
| 🇨🇳 China | 7318.14 |
8.6% (Import Duty) | CCC (if applicable) | Low import barrier |
| 🇪🇺 EU | 7318.14 |
6.5% + VAT | CE (if structural) | No Section 301/232 equivalent |
| 🇬🇧 UK | 7318.14 |
6.5% | UKCA (if applicable) | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | 7318.14 |
5.5% + GST | CSA (if applicable) | No major steel surcharges |
📌 Conclusion: - USA is the most expensive market for Chinese steel self-tapping screws due to the 93.6% effective tariff. - For other markets (EU, UK, Canada, China), the tariff burden is significantly lower (<10%). - Strategic Recommendation: If shipping to the US, consider duty minimization strategies such as: 1. Supply Chain Diversification: Source from non-China countries (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand) to avoid Section 301/232 surcharges. 2. Pre-Ruling: Apply for an Advance Ruling from US CBP to confirm HS code and duty eligibility. 3. Direct Payment: Ensure proper Incoterms (DDP vs DAP) are agreed upon to avoid unexpected customs holds.
📌 VI. Common Errors & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
❌ Error 1: Declaring "Steel Screws" without specifying diameter
👉 Consequence: CBP may classify as <6mm (lower duty) but audit later → Penalties + Back Duties.
❌ Error 2: Ignoring the 50% Steel Surcharge
👉 Consequence: Budgeting fails → Profit Margin Erased.
❌ Error 3: Mixing Stainless Steel with Carbon Steel in one shipment
👉 Consequence: Mixed HS codes required. Improper separation → Customs Hold & Inspection.
❌ Error 4: Using generic description "Hardware" on Invoice
👉 Consequence: Customs assigns highest possible duty (often 25%+ base) → Overpayment.
✅ Correct Practice:
"Self-Tapping Screw, Steel, Carbon, Diameter 6mm, Length 50mm, Zinc Plated, Model XYZ, Made in China"
🎯 VII. Conclusion: Precision Classification Saves Money
🎯 Remember the Mantra:
🔹 "Steel + ≥6mm = 7318.14.50"
🔹 "China Origin = 93.6% Total Duty"
🔹 "Accurate Declaration = Faster Clearance"
📌 Pro Tip:
- If your screws are stainless steel, check HS Code 7318.15 (different duty rates, often lower surcharges).
- If diameter is < 6mm, check HS Code 7318.16 (different base rate).
- Always verify with a licensed customs broker before shipping to the US to avoid the 93.6% landmine.
📣 Immediate Action:
📞 Consult a US Customs Broker
📄 Provide Product Specs & Origin Proof
🚀 Optimize Your Supply Chain to Mitigate Tariff Risks!
✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Cent Saved is a Cent Earned!
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) — Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) — More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) — Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) — 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 — The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate — Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties — 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.