HTS Code Finding for Sheet Metal Fabricated Parts from China to US

Navigating the world of international trade involves understanding various regulations and requirements, one of the most critical being the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. For businesses importing sheet metal fabricated parts from China to the US, identifying the correct HTS code is essential for compliance, determining accurate duty rates, and avoiding potential fines or delays. This blog will guide you through the process of finding the appropriate HTS code for sheet metal fabricated parts.

Understanding HTS Codes

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule is a global system of names and numbers used to classify traded products. The HTS code consists of 10 digits: the first six digits are standardized internationally, while the remaining four digits are country-specific. Accurate HTS classification ensures that customs duties and regulations are correctly applied.

Steps to Find the HTS Code for Sheet Metal Fabricated Parts

1. Accurately Describe the Product

Begin by providing a detailed description of the sheet metal fabricated parts. Key aspects to consider include:

Material (e.g., steel, aluminum, copper)
Manufacturing process (e.g., bending, cutting, punching, welding)
Final use or application (e.g., automotive, construction, aerospace)

2. Utilize Online HTS Code Tools

Several online resources can assist you in finding the correct HTS code based on your product description. Some recommended tools are:

US International Trade Commission (USITC) Tariff Database: A comprehensive resource for HTS codes.
Customs Info Database: Provides detailed HTS code information and duty rates.
Harmonized Tariff Schedule Online Reference Tool: Offers a searchable database for HTS codes.

3. Consult HTS Chapters and Headings

HTS codes are categorized into chapters and headings. For sheet metal fabricated parts, you will often look in:

Chapter 73: Articles of iron or steel
Chapter 76: Aluminum and articles thereof

Examine the descriptions within these chapters to find the relevant heading. For example, HTS code 7308 includes “Structures (excluding prefabricated buildings) and parts of structures, of iron or steel.”

4. Review Subheadings for Specific Descriptions

After identifying the relevant chapter and heading, review the subheadings for more precise classifications. For instance:

HTS 7308.90: Other structures and parts of structures, of iron or steel
HTS 7616.99: Other articles of aluminum, other

Select the subheading that best matches the specific characteristics of your sheet metal fabricated part.

5. Verify with Customs Authorities

To ensure the accuracy of your HTS code selection, verify it with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or consult a customs broker. Accurate verification helps prevent misclassification, which can lead to penalties or delays.

6. Consider Special Modifications and Uses

Some sheet metal fabricated parts may have specific modifications or applications that influence their HTS classification. For example, parts used in aerospace might have different codes compared to those used in general construction. Always take these details into account.

Common HTS Codes for Sheet Metal Fabricated Parts

Here are some HTS codes commonly used for sheet metal fabricated parts:

HTS 7308.90: Other structures and parts of structures, of iron or steel
HTS 7616.99: Other articles of aluminum, other
HTS 7326.90: Other articles of iron or steel, other

Conclusion

Finding the correct HTS code for sheet metal fabricated parts imported from China to the US requires a thorough understanding of the product and the HTS system. By accurately describing the product, utilizing online tools, consulting the appropriate chapters and headings, and verifying with customs authorities, you can ensure compliance and smooth customs clearance. Proper HTS classification not only facilitates efficient trade operations but also helps in optimizing import duties and taxes, contributing to the overall success of your business.

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partZpro® Manufacturing

partZpro Frequently Asked Questions

The "Open-Book" Business Model

Q: Why is there a factory invoice in the box?

That is your Commercial Import Invoice. Because we ship Factory Direct to your door, international customs requires an invoice that travels with the package.

Transparency & Compliance: This invoice lists the origin factory (showing you exactly who made your parts) and declares the exact value you paid at checkout.
Why it matches your payment: We ensure the commercial invoice matches your transaction value so that Customs calculates your duties correctly and legally, preventing delays or penalties at the border.

Q: If I have the factory’s info, why shouldn't I just go direct next time?

You can, but our clients stick with us for the "US Shield." When you order through PartzPro, your money is held in a US-based Escrow until the parts are delivered and verified. If you go direct, you are sending money overseas with zero recourse. We handle the legal leverage, language barriers, and financial security to ensure the factory prioritizes your job over others.

Q: What exactly does your Service Fee cover?

Your fee covers Financial Security (Escrow), Vendor Vetting, AI Engineering Analysis, and Project Management. We act as your US-based legal firewall. We find the best factories, negotiate the rates, and hold the money until the job is done right.

Logistics, Customs & AI Technology

Q: Who handles the HTS Codes and Customs paperwork?

Our AI does the heavy lifting; you just confirm the release. We don't leave you guessing on complex government tariffs.

Heavy AI Analysis: Our proprietary AI Assistant performs a 40-point analysis of your part's geometry and material. It automatically searches the official US Government HTS database to generate a precise HTS Code Breakdown for your specific parts.
The Process: This data is provided to the carrier (DHL/FedEx/UPS). When the broker contacts you, the classification is already estimated—you simply confirm it to release the shipment.

Q: Who pays the duties?

You do—which saves you money. Because we ship DAP (Delivered at Place), you pay the exact duties owed to the government based on the AI-generated HTS code.

Why this is better: Competitors who offer "Free Shipping/DDP" often inflate the price to cover the worst-case tariff scenario. By paying the actual duties yourself, you ensure you are never overcharged for import taxes.

Q: How fast is shipping?

Since we skip the "Middleman Warehouse," our standard international shipping is extremely fast (typically 3–5 days transit). Your parts fly directly from the machine shop to your desk.

Quality Assurance & Liability

Q: Competitors inspect parts at a US warehouse before shipping. Why don't you?

Because "double handling" kills speed and adds unnecessary cost. We operate on a "Dock-to-Stock" model. The factory performs the rigorous QC, and parts ship directly to you.

We treat you like a professional: we know you will verify the fit and function of your parts upon arrival. By removing the redundant middleman inspection, we save you 30% on cost and 3–5 days on lead time.

Q: What happens if the parts arrive out of spec?

You are protected by the PartzPro Escrow Guarantee. Because we hold the funds, the factory does not get paid until you are satisfied. If parts are non-conforming, simply upload a photo and inspection report. We will either force an immediate priority remake at the factory’s expense or issue a refund. You stay in control.

Q: Does your AI just check for geometry errors?

No. Our AI Cost-Driver Audit goes beyond simple DFM (Design for Manufacturing). It helps you perform Value Engineering by highlighting features that are disproportionately expensive (e.g., deep pockets, tight radii, non-standard threads). We show you the cost drivers so you can engineer the price down before you order.

Payments & Corporate Orders

Q: We are a company, not a hobbyist. Can we pay via Purchase Order (PO)?

Yes. We specialize in serving agile engineering departments and mid-sized manufacturing firms.

How to order with a PO: You can select "Pay via PO / Wire" at checkout or email our sales team directly with your PO attached. We will verify your company details and send a payment link or wire instructions immediately so production isn't delayed.

Q: Do you offer Net-30 Terms?

We offer terms to qualified business partners after an initial credit review. Please contact our sales team to set up your corporate account. For new customers, we recommend using our PO-to-Wire workflow for the fastest start.

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‍Please be advised that the content presented on our blog and throughout our website is intended strictly for informational purposes. It is designed to serve as a preliminary guide and reference point for our customers embarking on their projects. We endeavor to provide insightful and useful information, but it is imperative for each individual and organization to undertake their own comprehensive research and assessment before making any decisions related to their designs or component usage.Our blog and website content should not be considered as a replacement for specialized advice suited to your unique requirements. For more detailed terms and conditions, kindly refer to our Terms of use. The responsibility for the application of any information obtained from our blog or website in your designs, applications, or parts usage, rests solely with you, the reader or user. Our goal is to inform, advise, and inspire; however, the ultimate application and use of this information is under your discretion and liability.

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