Bolt Kit

🔩 Bolt Kit (Nut & Bolt Sets / Screw Kits)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Strategy for Metal Fasteners
📌 1. Product Definition: What Exactly is a "Bolt Kit"?

In international trade, "Bolt Kits," "Screw Sets," or "Nut & Bolt Assemblies" are classified under Threaded Products. The critical determinant for classification is MATERIAL, which drastically affects the total tax burden.

Two Main Categories: * Iron/Steel Fasteners: The most common industrial hardware. Hard, magnetic, high strength. * Aluminum/Metal Fasteners: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, often used in aerospace, marine, or high-end electronics.

⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If the kit contains Iron or Steel bolts/nuts → It falls under Chapter 73 (Articles of Iron or Steel).
- If the kit contains Aluminum bolts/nuts → It falls under Chapter 76 (Articles of Aluminum).
- Do not confuse "Bolt Kits" with general hardware accessories. They are specifically classified by their material composition.

📦 2. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Authoritative Comparison)

Based on the provided data, there are 5 specific HS Codes for Bolt Kits, split into two material groups.

🔍 Critical Reminder:
- Steel/Iron Kits (73xx): Suffer from the highest tariff penalties (85%) due to Section 301, Section 122, and Steel/Aluminum tariffs.
- Aluminum Kits (76xx): Also face significant tariffs (40.5%–41%), but are significantly lower than steel kits.
- Misclassification Risk: Declaring an Aluminum kit as Steel to avoid "Aluminum-specific" checks is illegal and risky. Declare accurately based on material.

💰 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surtaxes & Policy Add-ons)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Time: Current rates (2025–2026) apply

🎯 1. STEEL / IRON GROUP (7318.15.20.61, 7318.15.20.10, 7318.15.20.65)

📌 Explanation:
- 85% is EXTREMELY HIGH. This is not a normal tariff. It is a combination of multiple punitive measures.
- Section 301 (25%): Broad US-China trade war tariffs.
- Section 122 (10%) + Steel Surtax (50%): Specific laws targeting steel and aluminum imports from China.
- Result: Your cost basis increases by 85%. This makes importing steel bolt kits from China economically challenging unless passed to consumers.

🎯 2. ALUMINUM GROUP (7616.10.70.30, 7616.10.90.30)

📌 Explanation:
- ~40-41% is STILL HIGH, but significantly better than the 85% for steel.
- Why lower? Aluminum fasteners do not always attract the additional 50% "Steel/Aluminum Surtax" mentioned in the steel description, or the base rate is structured differently.
- Note: The tax detail for Aluminum codes does not explicitly list the "+50% Steel/Aluminum surtax" in the provided data, resulting in a lower total (40.5% vs 85%). Always verify with a customs broker.

🛠️ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Risk Avoidance Guide)

✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist (Non-Negotiable)

✅ 2. Declaration Strategy (Critical Tips)

🔥 "Declare Material, Declare Type, Avoid 'Mixed' Traps!"

✅ 3. Special Handling for "Bolt Kits"

🌍 5. Global Market Comparison (2026 Context)

📌 Conclusion for US Importers:
- Steel Bolt Kits from China are heavily penalized (85%).
- Aluminum Bolt Kits are also penalized (~40%), but less so.
- Strategy: Consider sourcing from Vietnam, Mexico, or Thailand to avoid Section 301/122 tariffs, or redesign product to use non-steel materials if possible.

📌 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Learn from Others' Pain)

❌ Mistake 1: Declaring "Bolt Kit" as "General Hardware" to get a lower base rate.
👉 Result: Customs classifies it under 7318.15 anyway, but adds penalty for misdeclaration. Tax stays 85% + fines.

❌ Mistake 2: Thinking "Stainless Steel" avoids tariffs.
👉 Result: Stainless steel is still Iron/Steel. It falls under 7318. Tax remains 85%.

❌ Mistake 3: Using De Minimis (800 USD) for small kits.
👉 Result: Fasteners are explicitly excluded. Your package will be seized or taxed retroactively.

❌ Mistake 4: Mixing Steel and Aluminum in one box without splitting declaration.
👉 Result: Customs will separate them, charge you the higher rate (85%) for the whole box if ambiguous, or delay for inspection.

✅ Correct Approach:

"Clear Material Declaration, Accurate HS Code, Separate Steel and Aluminum, No De Minimis Claims."

🎯 7. Conclusion: Smart Sourcing, Lower Costs

🎯 Key Takeaway:

🔹 Steel Kits = 85% Tax (Heavy Penalty)
🔹 Aluminum Kits = ~40.5% Tax (Moderate Penalty)
🔹 No Exemptions! (De Minimis denied)

📌 Recommendation:
1. Verify Material: Get a mill certificate for your bolts.
2. Choose Wisely: If aluminum is feasible, it saves ~45% in tax compared to steel.
3. Consider Alternatives: Look into sourcing from non-China origins (e.g., Vietnam) to bypass Section 301/122 tariffs.
4. Consult a Broker: Before shipping, get an Advance Ruling from US Customs if the volume is large.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Contact a Customs Broker + Provide Material Certificates + Prepare Detailed Packing List
🚀 Avoid the 85% Tax Trap by Declaring Correctly!

✨ Precision in Classification Saves Money in Customs!
💼 Your Supply Chain Needs Accuracy, Not Guesswork!