Chapter 73 covers articles of iron or steel, including tubes, hollow profiles, tube fittings, structures, containers, wire products, etc. This chapter has a broad scope, ranging from cast iron castings to precision stainless steel articles, but care must be taken to distinguish it from Chapter 72 (iron and steel raw materials and primary products). Chapter 73 mainly targets iron or steel articles that have undergone further processing and have specific shapes or uses, and is one of the core chapters for classifying iron and steel commodities in international trade. Heading 7303 specifically refers to cast iron tubes and hollow profiles, including tubes made of various types of cast iron (gray cast iron, ductile cast iron, malleable cast iron, etc.), whether or not further processed (such as coating, flange connection, etc.). This heading covers pipes used for conveying fluids such as water, gas, and oil, as well as structural tubes, but excludes iron or steel tube fittings (7307) or tubes made of non-cast-iron materials (such as 7304-7306). HS code 730300 is a six-digit subheading. The first two digits 73 represent Chapter 73 (articles of iron or steel), the third and fourth digits 03 represent heading 7303 (cast iron tubes and hollow profiles), and the fifth and sixth digits 00 indicate that there is no further subdivision under this heading, meaning all cast iron tubes are classified under this code. Therefore, 730300 is a complete six-digit subheading applicable to all tubes and hollow profiles made of cast iron, regardless of their specific use or processing state. The product is a cast iron tube, made of cast iron, and tubular in shape, which conforms to the description of heading 7303. Compared with adjacent codes 7304 (seamless steel tubes), 7305 (welded steel tubes), and 7306 (other steel tubes), 7303 specifically refers to cast iron material rather than steel. Therefore, as long as the material is cast iron and the shape is tubular, it is classified under 730300, rather than under other tube headings according to use or processing method.
Chapter
Chapter 73 covers articles of iron or steel, including tubes, hollow profiles, tube fittings, structures, containers, wire products, etc. This chapter has a broad scope, ranging from cast iron castings to precision stainless steel articles, but care must be taken to distinguish it from Chapter 72 (iron and steel raw materials and primary products). Chapter 73 mainly targets iron or steel articles that have undergone further processing and have specific shapes or uses, and is one of the core chapters for classifying iron and steel commodities in international trade.
Heading
Heading 7303 specifically refers to cast iron tubes and hollow profiles, including tubes made of various types of cast iron (gray cast iron, ductile cast iron, malleable cast iron, etc.), whether or not further processed (such as coating, flange connection, etc.). This heading covers pipes used for conveying fluids such as water, gas, and oil, as well as structural tubes, but excludes iron or steel tube fittings (7307) or tubes made of non-cast-iron materials (such as 7304-7306).
Digit Breakdown
HS code 730300 is a six-digit subheading. The first two digits 73 represent Chapter 73 (articles of iron or steel), the third and fourth digits 03 represent heading 7303 (cast iron tubes and hollow profiles), and the fifth and sixth digits 00 indicate that there is no further subdivision under this heading, meaning all cast iron tubes are classified under this code. Therefore, 730300 is a complete six-digit subheading applicable to all tubes and hollow profiles made of cast iron, regardless of their specific use or processing state.
Classification Basis
The product is a cast iron tube, made of cast iron, and tubular in shape, which conforms to the description of heading 7303. Compared with adjacent codes 7304 (seamless steel tubes), 7305 (welded steel tubes), and 7306 (other steel tubes), 7303 specifically refers to cast iron material rather than steel. Therefore, as long as the material is cast iron and the shape is tubular, it is classified under 730300, rather than under other tube headings according to use or processing method.
📝 Declaration Elements
Product Name: The Chinese and foreign-language name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the product attributes, such as “cast iron pipe” or “ductile iron pipe.” Material: The specific type of cast iron, such as gray cast iron, ductile cast iron, malleable cast iron, etc., which must be consistent with the product standard. Specifications and Model: Includes dimensional information such as outer diameter, wall thickness, and length, as well as model codes, to facilitate customs identification. Processing State: Whether it has undergone processing such as coating, lining, or flange connection, such as “internally and externally plastic-coated” or “socket and spigot type.” Use: The main use, such as water supply, drainage, gas transmission, etc., which helps confirm classification. Brand: The manufacturer or brand name; if there is no brand, “none” may be entered. Number of Pieces: The total number of pipes or total packages declared, which must be consistent with the packing list. Weight: Gross weight and net weight, in kilograms, which must be consistent with the bill of lading and packing list. Product Name: Ductile iron pipe; Material: Ductile cast iron; Specifications and Model: DN200, outer diameter 220mm, wall thickness 6mm, length 6m; Processing State: Internally and externally plastic-coated, socket and spigot type; Use: Water supply pipeline; Brand: XX; Number of Pieces: 100 pipes; Gross Weight: 5000kg; Net Weight: 4800kg. Mistakenly declaring ductile iron pipes as steel pipes, resulting in incorrect classification. Failure to indicate the processing state (such as coating), which may affect classification or tax rate. Incomplete specifications and model, writing only nominal diameter and lacking outer diameter and wall thickness.
Product Name
The Chinese and foreign-language name of the declared commodity, which should accurately reflect the product attributes, such as “cast iron pipe” or “ductile iron pipe.”
⚠️ Writing only “pipe” or “iron pipe” without specifying that the material is cast iron.
Material
The specific type of cast iron, such as gray cast iron, ductile cast iron, malleable cast iron, etc., which must be consistent with the product standard.
⚠️ Writing generally “cast iron” without distinguishing ductile cast iron from gray cast iron.
Specifications and Model
Includes dimensional information such as outer diameter, wall thickness, and length, as well as model codes, to facilitate customs identification.
⚠️ Writing only “DN100” without indicating outer diameter and wall thickness.
Processing State
Whether it has undergone processing such as coating, lining, or flange connection, such as “internally and externally plastic-coated” or “socket and spigot type.”
⚠️ Failure to state whether it has been coated or connected, which affects classification.
Use
The main use, such as water supply, drainage, gas transmission, etc., which helps confirm classification.
⚠️ Writing “industrial use” is too broad and not specific.
Brand
The manufacturer or brand name; if there is no brand, “none” may be entered.
⚠️ Omitting it or entering “unknown.”
Number of Pieces
The total number of pipes or total packages declared, which must be consistent with the packing list.
⚠️ The number of pieces does not match the actual quantity, or the unit is incorrect.
Weight
Gross weight and net weight, in kilograms, which must be consistent with the bill of lading and packing list.
⚠️ Confusing gross weight and net weight, or failing to deduct packaging weight.
Example： Product Name: Ductile iron pipe; Material: Ductile cast iron; Specifications and Model: DN200, outer diameter 220mm, wall thickness 6mm, length 6m; Processing State: Internally and externally plastic-coated, socket and spigot type; Use: Water supply pipeline; Brand: XX; Number of Pieces: 100 pipes; Gross Weight: 5000kg; Net Weight: 4800kg.
Common Mistakes：
Mistakenly declaring ductile iron pipes as steel pipes, resulting in incorrect classification.
Failure to indicate the processing state (such as coating), which may affect classification or tax rate.
Incomplete specifications and model, writing only nominal diameter and lacking outer diameter and wall thickness.
🎯 Classification Logic
The core basis for classification is material and shape. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the HS, cast iron tubes should be classified under 7303 because their material is cast iron and their shape is tubular. Note: if the tube has undergone further processing (such as threading or flanging), it is still classified under 7303, unless the processing makes it a tube fitting (7307). If it is a steel tube, it is classified under 7304-7306. Therefore, material is the key to distinguishing 7303 from adjacent headings. 7304 Seamless steel tubes: 7304 refers to seamless steel tubes, made of steel (not cast iron), usually manufactured by rolling or drawing, whereas 7303 refers to cast iron tubes, manufactured by casting. 7305 Welded steel tubes: 7305 refers to welded steel tubes, which have weld seams and are made of steel, whereas 7303 refers to cast iron tubes, which have no weld seams and are made of cast iron. 7306 Other steel tubes: 7306 covers other steel tubes (such as riveted or rolled), made of steel, whereas 7303 specifically refers to cast iron tubes. 7307 Tube fittings: 7307 refers to tube fittings (such as flanges, elbows, joints) used to connect pipes, whereas 7303 refers to the tubes themselves. If the end of a cast iron tube is processed into a flange, it is still classified under 7303, but flanges declared separately are classified under 7307. 7325 Other cast iron articles: 7325 refers to other cast iron articles, such as manhole covers and gratings, which are not tubular, whereas 7303 specifically refers to tubular cast iron articles. Is the material cast iron (not steel)? Is the shape tubular or a hollow profile? Has it been further processed into a tube fitting? Are the specifications and model complete? Is it confused with tubes of other materials?
Basis
The core basis for classification is material and shape. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the HS, cast iron tubes should be classified under 7303 because their material is cast iron and their shape is tubular. Note: if the tube has undergone further processing (such as threading or flanging), it is still classified under 7303, unless the processing makes it a tube fitting (7307). If it is a steel tube, it is classified under 7304-7306. Therefore, material is the key to distinguishing 7303 from adjacent headings.
Confused Codes：
7304 - Seamless steel tubes
7304 refers to seamless steel tubes, made of steel (not cast iron), usually manufactured by rolling or drawing, whereas 7303 refers to cast iron tubes, manufactured by casting.
7305 - Welded steel tubes
7305 refers to welded steel tubes, which have weld seams and are made of steel, whereas 7303 refers to cast iron tubes, which have no weld seams and are made of cast iron.
7306 - Other steel tubes
7306 covers other steel tubes (such as riveted or rolled), made of steel, whereas 7303 specifically refers to cast iron tubes.
7307 - Tube fittings
7307 refers to tube fittings (such as flanges, elbows, joints) used to connect pipes, whereas 7303 refers to the tubes themselves. If the end of a cast iron tube is processed into a flange, it is still classified under 7303, but flanges declared separately are classified under 7307.
7325 - Other cast iron articles
7325 refers to other cast iron articles, such as manhole covers and gratings, which are not tubular, whereas 7303 specifically refers to tubular cast iron articles.
Self-Check：
✓ Is the material cast iron (not steel)?
✓ Is the shape tubular or a hollow profile?
✓ Has it been further processed into a tube fitting?
✓ Are the specifications and model complete?
✓ Is it confused with tubes of other materials?
❓ FAQ
How do I look up the HS code for cast iron pipes? First confirm that the material is cast iron and the shape is tubular, then according to HS classification, classify it under Chapter 73, articles of iron or steel, heading 7303. You may consult the Import and Export Tariff or use the customs classification inquiry system and enter the keyword “cast iron pipe.” Be careful to distinguish cast iron from steel tubes. Do ductile iron pipes and gray cast iron pipes have the same HS code? Yes, both are classified under 730300, because HS code 7303 covers all cast iron pipes and does not distinguish among types of cast iron. However, when declaring, the material column must clearly indicate ductile cast iron or gray cast iron for customs statistics and supervision. Will the HS code change if a cast iron pipe is coated? No. Coating (such as plastic coating or asphalt) is a surface treatment and does not change the basic characteristics and material of the pipe, so it is still classified under 730300. However, if the coating gives the pipe characteristics of another heading (such as plastic pipes), it may affect classification. Usually, coated cast iron pipes are still classified under 7303. If a cast iron pipe has a flange connection, should it be classified under 7303 or 7307? If the flange is cast integrally with the pipe body or permanently connected as part of the pipe, it is classified under 7303. If the flange is a separately declared fitting, it is classified under 7307. When declaring, it is necessary to state whether the flange is integral with the pipe body. What declaration elements are required for imported cast iron pipes? Product name, material, specifications and model, processing state, use, brand, number of pieces, weight, etc. are required. The specific requirements are subject to customs requirements. It is recommended to refer to the declaration elements for 730300 in the Customs Import and Export Commodity Specification Declaration Catalog of the People's Republic of China. How are cast iron pipes and steel pipes distinguished for classification? The key is the material: cast iron pipes have a high carbon content (usually >2%) and are made by casting; steel pipes have a low carbon content and are made by rolling, drawing, or welding. In terms of HS codes, cast iron pipes are classified under 7303, and steel pipes under 7304-7306. When declaring, material certification must be provided. What is the export tax rebate rate for HS code 730300? The export tax rebate rate changes with national policy adjustments and is not fixed. It is recommended to check the latest rebate rate through the official website of the State Taxation Administration or the General Administration of Customs, or consult a professional customs broker. Usually the export tax rebate rate for cast iron pipes is 13% or 9%, but the real-time policy shall prevail. How should HS codes be declared for cross-border e-commerce sales of cast iron pipes? Cross-border e-commerce also needs to declare HS codes according to the actual goods. Cast iron pipes should be classified under 730300, and detailed product name, material, specifications, etc. must be provided when declaring. Note the difference between personal items and commercial express shipments; commercial express shipments require formal customs declaration, and it is recommended to entrust a customs broker to handle it.
Q: How do I look up the HS code for cast iron pipes?
A: First confirm that the material is cast iron and the shape is tubular, then according to HS classification, classify it under Chapter 73, articles of iron or steel, heading 7303. You may consult the Import and Export Tariff or use the customs classification inquiry system and enter the keyword “cast iron pipe.” Be careful to distinguish cast iron from steel tubes.
Q: Do ductile iron pipes and gray cast iron pipes have the same HS code?
A: Yes, both are classified under 730300, because HS code 7303 covers all cast iron pipes and does not distinguish among types of cast iron. However, when declaring, the material column must clearly indicate ductile cast iron or gray cast iron for customs statistics and supervision.
Q: Will the HS code change if a cast iron pipe is coated?
A: No. Coating (such as plastic coating or asphalt) is a surface treatment and does not change the basic characteristics and material of the pipe, so it is still classified under 730300. However, if the coating gives the pipe characteristics of another heading (such as plastic pipes), it may affect classification. Usually, coated cast iron pipes are still classified under 7303.
Q: If a cast iron pipe has a flange connection, should it be classified under 7303 or 7307?
A: If the flange is cast integrally with the pipe body or permanently connected as part of the pipe, it is classified under 7303. If the flange is a separately declared fitting, it is classified under 7307. When declaring, it is necessary to state whether the flange is integral with the pipe body.
Q: What declaration elements are required for imported cast iron pipes?
A: Product name, material, specifications and model, processing state, use, brand, number of pieces, weight, etc. are required. The specific requirements are subject to customs requirements. It is recommended to refer to the declaration elements for 730300 in the Customs Import and Export Commodity Specification Declaration Catalog of the People's Republic of China.
Q: How are cast iron pipes and steel pipes distinguished for classification?
A: The key is the material: cast iron pipes have a high carbon content (usually >2%) and are made by casting; steel pipes have a low carbon content and are made by rolling, drawing, or welding. In terms of HS codes, cast iron pipes are classified under 7303, and steel pipes under 7304-7306. When declaring, material certification must be provided.
Q: What is the export tax rebate rate for HS code 730300?
A: The export tax rebate rate changes with national policy adjustments and is not fixed. It is recommended to check the latest rebate rate through the official website of the State Taxation Administration or the General Administration of Customs, or consult a professional customs broker. Usually the export tax rebate rate for cast iron pipes is 13% or 9%, but the real-time policy shall prevail.
Q: How should HS codes be declared for cross-border e-commerce sales of cast iron pipes?
A: Cross-border e-commerce also needs to declare HS codes according to the actual goods. Cast iron pipes should be classified under 730300, and detailed product name, material, specifications, etc. must be provided when declaring. Note the difference between personal items and commercial express shipments; commercial express shipments require formal customs declaration, and it is recommended to entrust a customs broker to handle it.
⚠️ Disclaimer: HS code classification, declaration elements, tariff rates and regulatory conditions on this page are for reference only and do not constitute legal advice on customs classification. Tariff rates and regulations are subject to change; the latest announcements from the General Administration of Customs and on-site determinations shall prevail. Please consult professional customs brokers or customs authorities before import/export.