7216.31.00.00 - U sections

This HTS category, 7216.31.00.00, specifically covers "U sections" made from iron or non-alloy steel. These are structural metal profiles characterized by their distinctive U-shape cross-section. To fall within this classification, the U sections must have undergone only basic manufacturing processes such as hot-rolling, hot-drawing, or extrusion. Furthermore, a defining physical characteristic is that their height must measure 80 millimeters or more.

It is important to distinguish these U sections from their sibling categories. The closely related HTS code 7216.32.00.00 pertains to "I sections," also known as standard beams, which have an I-shaped cross-section. Similarly, HTS code 7216.33.00 covers "H sections," which feature an H-shaped profile. While all three are structural steel shapes and undergo similar initial manufacturing processes, their distinct cross-sectional geometries are the primary factor for their separate classifications.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the classification is definitive for U sections meeting the specified material, manufacturing, and dimensional criteria. Importers and exporters should carefully verify the cross-sectional shape and the height measurement of their steel sections to ensure accurate classification under this code.