## Common ground
Both options refer to metal structural shapes made from iron or steel, used in construction and engineering.
## Options at a glance
**7216 – Angles, shapes and sections of iron or non-alloy steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made specifically from iron or non-alloy (carbon) steel.
- **Typical examples:** Mild steel Z-sections, structural angles, I-beams.
- **Best fit when:** The material is plain carbon steel or iron, without alloying elements like chromium or nickel.
**7222.40 – Angles, shapes and sections**
- **Defining trait:** Broader category covering all types of metal shapes, including those made from alloyed or stainless steel.
- **Typical examples:** Stainless steel Z-sections, aluminum profiles, alloy steel beams.
- **Best fit when:** The material is not plain carbon steel—e.g., stainless, high-strength alloy, or non-ferrous metals.
## Key differences
| Feature | 7216 | 7222.40 |
|--------|------|--------|
| Material | Only iron/non-alloy steel | All materials (including alloys, stainless, aluminum) |
| Scope | Narrower, material-specific | Broader, material-agnostic |
| Use case | Standard structural steel | Diverse applications, including corrosion-resistant or high-performance uses |
## How to choose
1. Is the material plain carbon steel (no added alloys)? → 7216
2. Is it stainless steel, aluminum, or alloyed steel? → 7222.40
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A Z-section made of mild steel fits both codes. The key is material: if it's non-alloy steel (e.g., S235), use **7216**; if it’s stainless or alloyed, use **7222.40**. Do not assume the shape determines the code—material takes priority. If unsure, check the material specification