## Common ground
All options refer to stranded wires made from different metals, used for electrical conductivity.
## Options at a glance
**7312.10 – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made from ferrous metal, primarily used for mechanical strength rather than high conductivity.
- **Typical examples:** Guy wires, grounding cables, structural support in power lines.
- **Best fit when:** The wire’s main purpose is strength, not electrical transmission.
**7413.00 – Copper**
- **Defining trait:** High electrical conductivity; standard for efficient power and signal transmission.
- **Typical examples:** Electrical wiring in buildings, motor windings, data cables.
- **Best fit when:** The wire is used for carrying electricity or signals with minimal loss.
**7614 – Aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Lightweight and cost-effective; lower conductivity than copper but suitable for long-distance power lines.
- **Typical examples:** Overhead power transmission lines, large-scale electrical distribution.
- **Best fit when:** Weight and cost are critical, and moderate conductivity is acceptable.
## Key differences
| Feature | 7312.10 (Iron/Steel) | 7413.00 (Copper) | 7614 (Aluminium) |
|------------------|----------------------|------------------|------------------|
| Conductivity | Very low | Very high | Medium |
| Weight | High | High | Low |
| Primary use | Mechanical support | Electrical signal/power | Long-distance power transmission |
## How to choose
- Is the wire mainly for strength, not electricity? → 7312.10
- Does it carry high-current or sensitive signals? → 7413.00
- Is weight and cost more important than maximum efficiency? → 7614
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A stranded wire might be made of aluminum but used in a high-conductivity application—still falls under 7614. No overlap in HS codes; each reflects the primary material. The defining trait is the base metal, not the application. If unsure, prioritize the material’s inherent properties over intended use