Import Procedures for Stainless Steel Coils by IPO Logistics

I. General Introduction to Stainless Steel Coils

1. Definition

Import Procedures for Stainless Steel Coils – Stainless steel coils are a type of alloy steel containing at least 10.5% chromium, which creates a protective layer against corrosion and oxidation. This type of steel is commonly used in various fields such as construction, food processing, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing.

2. Technical Features

Stainless steel has several outstanding properties such as:

• High corrosion resistance: Particularly useful in humid and chemically aggressive environments.
• Good mechanical strength: Withstands significant impact without deformation.
• Easy to clean: Suitable for applications in the food and healthcare industries.
• Aesthetic appeal: Smooth and shiny surface, easy to shape.

3. Classification of Stainless Steel

• Austenitic: Non-magnetic stainless steel (SUS304, SUS316).
• Ferritic: Magnetic stainless steel (SUS430).
• Martensitic: High hardness stainless steel (SUS410).

II. HS Code for Stainless Steel Coils

The HS code is a crucial factor in determining import taxes and other requirements. For stainless steel coils, the commonly used HS codes are:

• 7219: Unfinished stainless steel coils.
• 7220: Finished or processed stainless steel coils.

Detailed HS Codes

Determining the correct HS code not only affects the tax rate but also influences other import regulations.

III. Legal Basis Related to Importing Stainless Steel

1. Legal Documents

Legal regulations related to importing stainless steel include:

• Decree 69/2018/ND-CP: Regulations on foreign trade management and customs procedures.
• Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC: Regulations on customs procedures for exported and imported goods.
• Circular 14/2019/TT-BKHCN: Regulations on the quality management of imported goods.
• Enterprise Law 2020: Provides a legal framework for business operations.

2. Licenses and Quality Inspections

a. Import Licenses

• Certain types of stainless steel may require an import license from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, especially if they fall under the category of goods subject to specialized management.

b. Quality Inspections

• Imported goods must undergo quality inspections, including sampling and testing. The results will determine the issuance of a quality certificate.
• If the products are used in the food industry, a food safety certificate from a competent authority is required.

3. Food Safety Regulations

• QCVN 1-2019/BYT: National technical regulation on food safety for equipment that comes into contact with food.

IV. Import Procedures for Stainless Steel Coils

1. Preparing Import Documentation

a. Identifying Suppliers

• Finding Suppliers: Choose a reputable supplier with quality certification.
• Contract Negotiation: Specify terms of delivery and payment methods.

b. Required Documentation

• Sales Contract: Clearly defines terms regarding price, quantity, and delivery time.
• Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods, quantity, and value.
• Packing List: Information about the packaging of goods.
• Bill of Lading: Shipping document.
• Certificate of Origin (C/O): Proves the origin of the goods.
• Quality Certificate: If required by authorities.

2. Customs Declaration

a. Declaration of Information

• The enterprise declares information about the goods through the VNACCS/VCIS system. Required information includes:
  • HS code
  • Quantity, weight, value of goods
  • Information about the exporter and importer

b. Submitting Customs Documentation

• The enterprise submits documentation to the Customs Department where the goods are imported. Documentation will be classified:
  • Green lane: No inspection required, just tax payment.
  • Yellow lane: Documentation inspection, possible requests for supplements.
  • Red lane: Physical inspection of goods.

3. Tax and Import Fees Payment

a. Tax Obligations

• Enterprises need to fulfill tax obligations, including import tax and value-added tax (VAT) before receiving goods:
  • Import tax: Calculated as a percentage of the value of the goods (usually from 0% to 15% depending on the HS code).
  • VAT: Usually 10% for imported goods.

4. Quality Inspection of Goods

• If the goods require quality inspection, enterprises need to cooperate with inspection authorities to carry out:
  • Sampling: The inspection authority will take samples for testing.
  • Inspection Results: Issuance of a quality certificate if the goods meet standards.

5. Receiving Goods and Completing Import Procedures

• After completing customs procedures, enterprises can receive goods from the port or warehouse. Final steps include:
  • Receiving Goods: Ensuring that the goods are delivered to the correct location as per the contract.
  • Document Storage: Keeping import documentation for future reference and verification.

V. IPO Logistics Services

1. Legal and Documentation Consultation

• Support in determining HS codes, tax policies, and related legal requirements.
• Provide information about licenses and quality inspections.

2. Customs Procedure Implementation

• Representing enterprises in customs procedures, declarations, and tax payments.
• Assisting in resolving issues that arise during the declaration process.

3. Transportation and Delivery

• Providing transportation and delivery services from the port to the enterprise’s warehouse.
• Ensuring prompt and safe delivery.

4. Quality Inspection

• Consulting and supporting quality inspections of goods as per regulations.

VI. Conclusion

The import procedure for stainless steel coils is a complex process requiring strict compliance with legal regulations and customs procedures. Enterprises need to prepare documentation and information carefully to ensure the process runs smoothly.

IPO Logistics is committed to supporting enterprises throughout the import process, from legal consultation to customs procedures. We pride ourselves on being a reliable partner, helping you optimize the import process.