Hardware Export: HS Codes Affected by U.S. Tariffs on Chinese Products
In the world of hardware export, understanding trade regulations is as critical as the products you sell. Over the past few years, the U.S. has imposed tariffs on a wide range of Chinese imports — including various categories of construction hardware, tools, and industrial equipment.
For exporters and hardware shopkeepers across the UAE and Asia dealing with Chinese-made goods, these tariffs have a direct impact on pricing, sourcing, and overall trade strategies. Knowing which HS (Harmonized System) codes are affected is no longer optional — it’s essential for minimizing risk, ensuring compliance, and staying competitive in the global market.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the affected HS codes, explain their relevance in the construction sector, and help you navigate what actions to take if you’re in the business of hardware exports to the United States.
What Are HS Codes?
HS codes, short for Harmonized System codes, are internationally standardized numerical identifiers used to classify traded goods. Created and managed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), HS codes are used by over 200 countries and cover 98% of merchandise in global trade.
An HS code is usually 6 to 10 digits long and helps customs authorities:
- Identify products quickly
- Apply correct duties and tariffs
- Monitor import/export statistics
For example:
- 8205.40.00 – this HS code refers to hand-operated spanners and wrenches
- 7318.15.20 – this code represents bolts and bolts with their nuts or washers
When the U.S. imposes tariffs on Chinese hardware, they list the specific HS codes affected — so traders, importers, and exporters can know which products carry additional duties.
Why Do U.S. Tariffs Matter to Hardware Exporters?
Over recent years, as part of a broader trade strategy, the U.S. has enacted Section 301 tariffs on thousands of Chinese goods. Many of these fall under common HS codes used by hardware tools, fasteners, machinery, and construction components.
This means:
- Exporters in China face increased costs
- Importers in the U.S. pay higher duties
- Distributors and wholesalers in third countries (like the UAE) must re-evaluate sourcing
If you’re shipping products to U.S. buyers — or even indirectly supplying clients who do — your profitability and legal compliance may depend on these HS codes.
Must-Know HS Codes for Hardware Affected by U.S. Tariffs
The following are some commonly used hardware-related HS codes that have been impacted by tariffs under Section 301 (depending on the tranche or list they appear in):
1. 8205.40.00
- Description: Hand-operated spanners and wrenches
- Use in Construction: Tightening and loosening bolts on job sites
- Tariff Status: Subject to additional U.S. duties if manufactured in China
2. 8203.20.60
- Description: Pliers and similar tools
- Use: Wire-cutting, bending, gripping
- Relevance: Frequently exported by tool distributors from UAE and China
3. 8205.10.00
- Description: Drilling or threading tools
- Application: Concrete drilling, rebar work
- Note: A critical item in both B2B and B2C hardware exports
4. 8202.39.00
- Description: Circular saw blades with working parts of base metal
- Application: Used in carpentry and masonry
- Tariff Concern: Higher cost for U.S. buyers may lead to reduced orders
5. 7318.15.20
- Description: Bolts and bolt sets with nuts or washers
- Construction Use: Steel frame joining, anchoring, etc.
- Note: One of the most common fastener exports from UAE
6. 8424.30.90
- Description: Other mechanical appliances for projecting, dispersing or spraying liquids or powders
- Construction Use: Paint sprayers, pesticide sprayers for landscape contractors
- Tariff Note: Also affected under certain U.S. regulatory lists
For a full, verified list of affected products and HS codes under Section 301, visit the United States Trade Representative (USTR) website:
👉 https://ustr.gov/issue-areas/enforcement/section-301-investigations
What This Means for Hardware Shopkeepers and Exporters
If your business involves sourcing hardware from Chinese manufacturers — even indirectly — you should immediately assess whether your products fall under the affected HS codes.
You Might Be Affected If:
- You export Chinese goods to U.S.-based customers
- You sell to traders who re-export to the U.S.
- Your UAE-based clients include U.S. subcontractors or builders
- Your Chinese suppliers have increased pricing citing “tariff costs”
How to Protect Your Business
✅ Step 1: Audit Your Product List
Match your product inventory with their HS codes and verify against USTR’s tariff list.
✅ Step 2: Ask Your Supplier for HS Code Details
Ensure that each product you’re buying includes proper classification. Never assume.
✅ Step 3: Consider Alternative Supply Chains
Explore suppliers from non-tariffed regions — such as India, Vietnam, or Turkey — if the margins are becoming too thin.
✅ Step 4: Update Your Buyer Communication
Let your clients in the U.S. know if products are tariff-affected so that there are no surprises on duty charges or pricing.
✅ Step 5: Use Professional Logistics/Customs Services
Work with clearing agents or freight forwarders who are familiar with updated U.S. regulations and HS code classifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are all Chinese hardware products affected by U.S. tariffs?
No, only those listed under specific HS codes. It is product-specific, not blanket-based.
Q2: Do these tariffs apply to UAE businesses?
Only if you export directly to the U.S., or your buyers do. But even UAE local pricing may be impacted by Chinese supplier adjustments.
Q3: Can I appeal against a tariff?
Only U.S. importers can request exclusions or file reconsideration cases via USTR channels.
Final Thoughts
In the global construction and tools market, being aware of shifting trade policies is as important as offering quality products. For exporters and hardware suppliers, especially those dealing in Chinese goods, understanding the HS codes impacted by U.S. tariffs helps you avoid cost shocks, maintain customer trust, and manage supply chain risk effectively.
Even if you don’t export directly, your pricing strategy, inventory planning, and supplier choices may all depend on this knowledge.
Stay proactive. Stay informed. And always check the code — the HS code, that is.
Also read – How Can UAE Free Zones Help Hardware Exporters Re-Export Globally Without Tariffs?
