As of June 4, 2025, the U.S. government implemented a 50% tariff on specific steel and aluminum products, under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. This update represents a significant shift in trade enforcement, with major implications for importers throughout North America.
What Are the Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum?
The new rule increases tariffs to 50% only for certain tariff classifications (HTS codes) related to steel, aluminum, and their derivatives. Not all products are affected.
➡️ Only products that fall under the listed HTS codes covered by Section 232 are subject to the 50% duty.
➡️ Products excluded from the list or covered under USMCA (TMEC) may be exempt.
Real Case: How One Importer Reduced Duties from 50% to 12%
One of our clients was initially paying 50% on the total invoice value, unaware that the tariff should only apply to the actual value of the steel content. With our support, the supplier restructured the invoice, separating:
- The value of the metal
- Labor and assembly costs
- Packaging and additional components
What Should Importers Do?
To comply and avoid overpayment, importers should:
- Request a detailed invoice breaking down metal content, labor, and other materials
- Ensure the product’s HTS code is verified against the Section 232 list
- Gather supporting evidence (technical datasheets, cost breakdowns) to defend declared values in case of an audit
- Work with experienced customs brokers to properly classify and document imports
US Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Compliance
This isn’t just a regulatory update—it’s a compliance and cost-saving opportunity. Failing to break down and document your product’s components could lead to unnecessary costs or penalties.
At PCR INTERNATIONAL, we help importers navigate complex regulations, optimize tariff exposure, and ensure full legal compliance.
Not sure if your imports are affected? Let’s review your case.
📍 Laredo, TX | Nuevo Laredo, MX
📩
📱 +1 956 795 0801 | +1 956 795 0214