Yes, steel tariffs apply to many finished steel goods, and for products classified in HTS chapters 72 and 73 they apply regardless of how much the item weighs or costs. As of October 2026, listed steel articles such as posts, structures, bolts, nuts and grounding rods pay 50% of full value, and listed derivatives pay 25% or less. That makes the hardware around a charging installation as important to check as the charger itself.
Key Takeaways
- Steel articles in chapters 72 and 73 pay 50% regardless of weight.
- Posts, structures, fasteners and grounding rods are listed at 50%.
- Steel racks were added at 25% in June 2026.
- Invoice each steel accessory separately and accurately.
Steel Articles vs Steel Derivatives
The Section 232 lists split steel goods into two groups. Steel articles, mostly in chapters 72 and 73, are products made essentially of steel; they sit on the 50% list. Steel derivatives are other products that contain a lot of steel; many sit on the 25% list, and those outside chapters 72–76 escape the duty if covered metal is under 15% of their weight. Some industrial, farm and residential HVAC equipment has temporary reduced treatment until December 31, 2027. The lists are in the annexes to Proclamation 11032.
Hardware Around a Charging Site
Below are steel items that installers and importers often handle, with their treatment on the June 2026 lists and normal duty from the U.S. tariff schedule. Classification depends on the exact product, so treat this as a checklist for your broker.
| Item | Typical HTS heading | Normal duty (example) | Section 232 (October 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel columns, posts and parts of structures | 7308.90 | Free | 50% of full value |
| Bolts, screws, nuts and washers | 7318 | Up to 8.5% on some lines | 50% |
| Steel grounding rods | 7326.90.86.05 | 2.9% | 50% |
| Other articles of steel (e.g. brackets, nesoi) | 7326.90.86.88 | 2.9% | 50% |
| Welded steel tube for frames | 7306 | Free on many lines | 50% |
| Steel storage racks | 9403.20.0082 | Varies | 25% (added June 2026) |
The electrical question of whether you need a rod at all is covered in our earth rod guide; the point here is only that imported steel rods are listed.
Shipped Together or Separately?
How goods are packed and invoiced can change the result. A charger shipped with a small mounting bracket in the box is normally entered as the charger. A container of steel posts, base plates and anchor bolts for a pedestal installation is entered item by item, and each steel line may fall on the 50% list. Describe goods accurately on the invoice. Splitting or describing items to avoid duty is misclassification and can bring penalties and back duties.
- List every steel accessory as its own invoice line with weight and material.
- Ask whether the steel was melted and poured in the U.S. or the UK, which can lower the rate.
- Compare buying heavy hardware locally against importing it, once duty is included.
What It Means for EV Charging Projects
On commercial sites, steel hardware can be a meaningful share of imported cost. Our guide to commercial charger costs helps you budget the full project. EVDANCE supplies chargers such as the EV-AC03201T dual-connector AC station from its own factory and can quote mounting hardware separately so you can decide what to source locally. Rates and rules here are as of October 2026; confirm the current proclamation and HTS notes before you ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do steel tariffs apply to steel bolts and screws?
Yes. Most iron or steel fasteners under heading 7318 are on the 50% list as of October 2026.
Does the 15% weight test help with steel posts?
No. Goods classified in chapters 72 and 73 pay the steel tariff regardless of weight share.
Are steel tariffs charged on the full value of finished goods?
Yes. Since April 6, 2026, covered goods pay on full customs value.
Related Reading
- How to Install an EV Charger Pedestal: Step by Step
- How Much Do Commercial EV Chargers Cost?
- Importing EV Chargers Into the US: Customs, HTS and Section 301
- FOB vs DDP: How to Import EV Chargers From China Without Surprises
