Section 232 Inclusion Request - Steel Manufacturers Association

A measure labeled “type 232” generally refers to a trade action under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. The U.S. government uses Section 232 to address imports determined to affect national security. The action may apply through an additional duty, tariff-rate quota, absolute quota, licensing condition, or another import requirement. “BIS” identifies the Bureau of Industry and Security, while the remaining code is a measure identifier; it does not, by itself, tell you whether your product is covered.

These measures typically affect importers of specifically described products, components, derivatives, or products from particular countries. Coverage is determined by the measure’s legal text and the relevant HTSUS classification, not merely by a product’s everyday name. An importer should verify the product’s tariff classification, country of origin, product specifications, entry date, and any applicable exclusions, quota rules, or documentation requirements. Customs-broker or trade-counsel review may be appropriate when the scope is unclear.

What to check

• Confirm the product’s complete HTSUS classification, including any statistical suffix, with the official tariff schedule and the measure’s instructions.
• Read the measure’s product scope carefully, including technical descriptions, derivative products, materials, and stated exclusions; do not rely on the measure title alone.
• Verify the country of origin and any country-specific treatment, using the applicable substantial-transformation rules and supporting records.
• Check the entry date, customs entry type, additional-duty reporting instructions, quota or licensing procedures, and required documentation in official CBP and agency guidance.
• Ask a qualified customs broker or trade professional to review ambiguous classifications, scope questions, exclusions, or origin determinations before filing.