Flower Nut

🌼 Flower Nut (Spring Washer / Lock Washer)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 Part 1: Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know What a "Flower Nut" Is?

A Flower Nut, also known as a Spring Washer or Lock Washer, is a thin, split, or curved metal disc used under the head of a bolt or nut. Its primary function is to prevent loosening due to vibration and to distribute the load of the threaded fastener.

In international trade, it is classified not by its name ("Flower Nut"), but by its physical structure and material. It falls under the category of "Washers (including spring washers)" within the broader chapter of Iron or Steel fasteners.

⚠️ Key Distinction:
- If it is Stainless Steel: It falls under 7318.16.00.60.
- If it is Carbon Steel/Black Steel (Other): It falls under 7318.16.00.85.
- ⛔ Misclassification Risk: Do NOT classify as "Nuts" (7318.15) or "Bolts" (7318.14). It is a Washer.

📦 Part 2: HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Reference)

🔍 Critical Note:
- Both codes fall under Chapter 73: Articles of Iron or Steel.
- The description "Nuts" in the HS code header is a historical grouping. It includes Spring Washers and Lock Washers as well as standard hex nuts.
- Why 57.5%? This rate is the sum of the Base Tariff (0%) + Section 301 Additional Tariff (7.5%) + Section 232 Steel/Aluminum Additional Tariff (50%).

💰 Part 3: 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Date: Current rates apply (Section 232 & Section 301)

🎯 1. 7318.16.00.60 – Flower Nuts / Spring Washers (Stainless Steel)

📌 Explanation:
- Section 232 (50%): Applies to "steel products" including fasteners like washers and nuts. This is a national security tariff.
- Section 301 (7.5%): A tariff imposed on Chinese goods under trade remedy laws.
- Total: 57.5%. This is a high-cost item. Profit margins must account for this.

🎯 2. 7318.16.00.85 – Flower Nuts / Spring Washers (Carbon/Other Steel)

📌 Note:
- Even though it is "Other" steel, it is still subject to the same 50% Section 232 tariff.
- There is no differential tax benefit between Stainless (60) and Carbon (85) for these specific surcharges. Both are taxed at 57.5%.

🛠️ Part 4: Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Real-World Pitfall Guide)

✅ 1. Required Documentation Checklist

✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mantras)

🔥 "Specify Material, Name as Washer, Avoid 'Nut' Ambiguity!"

✅ 3. Special Situation Handling

🌍 Part 5: Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)

📌 Conclusion:
- The US market is the most expensive due to the 50% Section 232 + 7.5% Section 301 tariffs.
- Total 57.5% significantly impacts profitability.
- Strategy: If exporting to the US, consider supply chain relocation to Mexico, Vietnam, or Thailand to avoid these tariffs.

📌 Part 6: Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)

❌ Mistake 1: Declaring as "Nut" without specifying "Spring/Lock"
👉 Consequence: CBP may misclassify, leading to delays or audit.
✅ Fix: Always use "Spring Washer" or "Lock Washer" in the description.

❌ Mistake 2: Ignoring Section 232 Steel Tariff
👉 Consequence: Unexpected 50% charge at customs.
✅ Fix: Budget for 57.5% total duty if sourcing from China.

❌ Mistake 3: Mixing Stainless and Carbon Steel in One Declaration Line
👉 Consequence: Customs will separate them, assess different HTSUs, and potentially penalize for incomplete data.
✅ Fix: Split line items on the invoice.

❌ Mistake 4: Assuming De Minimis ($800) applies without checking Steel Rules
👉 Consequence: Package held at border, duties still assessed.
✅ Fix: Confirm with your broker if Section 232 applies to your specific washer type and quantity.

🎯 Part 7: Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Control

🎯 Remember the Mantra:

🔹 "Material First, Washer Second, 57.5% Total Duty."
🔹 "HS Code 7318.16, Steel Tariff 50%, Trade War 7.5%."

📌 Tips:
- If your Flower Nuts are sourced from Mexico, Vietnam, or India, check for free or lower tariff rates.
- Always request a Pre-Ruling from US CBP if you are unsure about the classification of coated or特殊-shaped washers.
- Document everything: Material certs, photos, and specs are your best defense.

📣 Immediate Action:

📞 Contact Your Customs Broker
📄 Provide Product Specs (Material, Diameter, Thickness)
🚀 Optimize Your Supply Chain to Avoid High Tariffs!

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Percent Matters in Fastener Trade!