Quick answer: This page answers the questions EU buyers ask most when sourcing steel from China: production standards (ASTM, EN, API, JIS), the EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificate issued with every shipment, minimum order quantity from one tonne, 15-25 day transit to Gdansk, Gdynia and Szczecin, payment terms, and how to get a factory-direct quotation within 24 hours.
Steel Supply from China to Poland — Frequently Asked Questions
This page answers the questions Polish importers, distributors, contractors and manufacturers ask most often before ordering steel from China. If you are evaluating Sino East Steel as a steel supplier for Poland — whether for galvanized pipe, galvanized coils, PPGI coils, scaffolding, seamless or welded pipe — the answers below cover standards, certificates, pricing, payment, shipping and delivery. For anything not covered, contact our export office and you will receive a direct answer within 24 hours.
Ordering and Pricing
How do I request a quotation?
Send the product, standard, grade, size, quantity and destination port to [email protected] or WhatsApp +86-186-2208-8833. Our export team replies within 24 hours with pricing, availability and a proposed shipping schedule.
What is your minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
The MOQ is typically 25 metric tons per size for full-container orders. Distributors ordering several sizes can consolidate them in one container; smaller trial quantities are possible for first orders.
What payment terms do you accept?
We accept T/T (typically 30% deposit, 70% against shipping documents), L/C at sight, and D/P. For long-term EU partners, project-based payment arrangements can be discussed.
Are your prices FOB, CIF or CFR?
We quote on all three Incoterms. FOB Tianjin/Xingang gives you control of freight; CFR and CIF to Gdansk, Gdynia, Szczecin or Klaipeda are available and simpler for first-time importers.
Can I get samples before ordering?
For most products we can supply small samples or cut pieces so your quality department can verify the material. The sample cost is credited against the first order for regular customers.
Do you offer a price guarantee for repeat orders?
For customers on monthly supply programs we fix prices for the program period, protecting you against market fluctuations. Program conditions are agreed in writing.
Products and Standards
What standards are your products manufactured to?
ASTM A53, A106, A500, A615, A653, A792, A240, A312, A641, F1667, API 5L, EN 10130, EN 10169, EN 10219, EN 10346, EN 10244, BS 1139, BS 1387, JIS G3141, JIS G3192, JIS G3303 and GB standards, with the governing standard stated in the mill test certificate.
Do you supply to Polish and European standards?
Yes. We regularly export to EN and DIN specifications used across the EU, including EN 10219, EN 39, EN 10210, EN 10305, EN 10255 and DIN 2440, in addition to ASTM and API. Tell us the standard your project specifies and we will quote accordingly.
What is the difference between galvanized pipe and black pipe?
Galvanized pipe has a hot-dip zinc coating (typically Z275+) that protects against corrosion, making it suitable for outdoor, humid and water-carrying applications. Black pipe is uncoated and used where painting or another coating will be applied.
Which galvanized coil coating class should I choose?
For ductwork, profiles and roofing in Poland, Z180–Z275 covers most applications. Z100–Z140 is used for interior parts; Z300+ for agricultural and coastal environments with high corrosion stress.
What paint systems are available for PPGI coils?
PE (polyester) is the economical standard for roofing; SMP adds durability and colour retention; PVDF offers the longest service life for coastal and premium projects. Film thickness 20–30 µm depending on system.
Do your scaffolding systems comply with EN 12811?
Yes. Our ringlock, cuplock and frame systems are designed and load-tested to EN 12811, with load test certificates, system drawings and EN ISO 1461 galvanizing documentation provided with every shipment.
Quality, Certification and Inspection
What documentation is included with each shipment?
Each shipment includes an EN 10204 3.1 mill test certificate (MTC) with heat numbers, chemistry and mechanical properties, plus commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin.
Can we arrange a pre-shipment inspection?
Yes. Third-party inspection by SGS, TUV, Bureau Veritas or your own representative can be arranged before loading, and the inspection report is provided before the vessel departs.
Do you hold ISO 9001 certification?
Yes. The factory operates under an ISO 9001:2015 quality management system and is independently audited by SGS and TUV Rheinland for production capacity and export reliability.
How is zinc coating weight verified?
Coating weight is measured by the magnetic or gravimetric method per ISO 1461 / EN 10346 and stated on the batch certificate. Coating uniformity and adhesion are verified by the Preece and bend tests where the standard requires them.
Can you provide PMI testing for stainless steel?
Yes. Positive material identification (PMI) testing is available on request for stainless steel deliveries, with test reports documenting the grade on each item.
What happens if the material does not match the specification?
Claims are handled against the mill certificates and inspection reports. With pre-shipment inspection the risk is minimal; in the rare case of a claim, we resolve it quickly with replacement or compensation per the contract.
Logistics and Delivery
What is the production and shipping lead time?
Production takes 15–25 days after confirmation of the specification for most products, followed by sea freight of approximately 30–45 days to Gdynia, Gdansk and other Baltic ports.
Which Polish and EU ports do you ship to?
We ship to Gdansk, Gdynia, Szczecin, Klaipeda and other Baltic and Northern European ports. Mixed-container consolidation is available for regular customers.
Do you support EU documentation requirements?
Yes. We prepare the full documentation package for EU importers: EN 10204 3.1 MTC, certificates of origin, packing lists and invoices, with third-party inspection arranged on request.
How is the material packed for export?
Products are packed in seaworthy export condition: steel strapping, waterproof wrapping and wooden or steel pallets where required, with clear marking. Pipe is bundled with plastic end caps on request.
Can I combine several products in one container?
Yes. Distributors regularly combine pipes, coils, sheets and accessories in one 40 ft container, which reduces freight cost per ton and simplifies receiving.
Can I visit the factory before ordering?
Yes. Customers are welcome to visit our Tianjin plant, and third-party audits can be arranged as an alternative. For new customers we also provide production photos and video of the loaded goods.
Import and Customs for Polish Buyers
Who handles customs clearance in Poland?
Practically every importer uses a customs broker (agencja celna) for clearance. We prepare the complete documentation set — commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and mill certificates — so the broker can clear the goods in 1–3 working days without queries.
How is import VAT calculated?
Import VAT in Poland is 23% on the customs value (invoice value plus freight and insurance plus duty). VAT-registered companies recover it in the monthly VAT return. Your broker calculates the exact amount at clearance.
Do I need an import licence for steel from China?
No import licence is required for standard steel products under the EU import regime. EU safeguard measures apply to some steel categories, so your broker should confirm the CN code and any quota requirements before the goods arrive.
Can you help with the EU safeguard quota?
As a regular EU exporter we manage shipments within the applicable safeguard framework and advise on the correct CN codes and quota categories for each product, so your clearance is not delayed by documentation issues.
What documents do I need from the seller for clearance?
You need the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and the mill test certificates. All are included in our standard documentation set for every shipment.
How long does customs clearance take?
With a complete documentation set, clearance at Polish ports typically takes 1–3 working days. Incomplete or mismatched documents are the main cause of delay — which is why we double-check every document before the vessel sails.
Product-Specific Questions
Is the zinc coating applied inside the pipe as well?
Yes — the hot-dip process coats the full surface, inside and outside, because the pipe is immersed in the molten zinc bath. This is important for water-carrying lines where internal corrosion would otherwise shorten service life.
Can you supply threaded and coupled galvanized pipe?
Yes. Threading, coupling and socket ends can be prepared in our finishing line, and we also supply plain-end pipe for welded connections or grooved couplings.
Can you supply galvanized coils slit to width?
Yes. Slitting to customer widths from 30 mm up to full width is available, and slit coils can be packed separately with edge protection for handling on your processing line.
What is the difference between Z100 and Z275 coating?
Z275 carries a zinc coating of 275 g/m² (total, both sides) versus 100 g/m² for Z100, so it offers roughly 2.5 times more corrosion protection. Heavier coatings are recommended for exterior exposure and coastal environments.
What colors are available for PPGI coils?
We supply the full standard RAL palette, plus common building-industry colors such as Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016), Traffic White (RAL 9016) and various greens and reds. Custom color matching is available for orders from one container.
What is the typical lead time for PPGI coils?
Standard colors and sizes ship within 20–25 days of order confirmation; custom colors may add 5–10 days depending on the paint system. We can confirm exact timing when you send your specification.
Do you provide load tables and system documentation?
Yes — each system is supplied with load tables, erection instructions and the technical documentation required for local safety compliance and CE marking where applicable.
Can you supply complete scaffolding sets for projects?
Yes, we prepare complete sets with component quantities calculated from your facade area and working height, including base jacks, ledgers, boards and safety accessories.
What is the difference between ERW and LSAW welded pipe?
ERW pipe is formed from coil and welded by high-frequency current, ideal up to about 660 mm diameter. LSAW is formed from plate and submerged-arc welded, used for large diameters above 406 mm and heavy wall thicknesses.
Which stainless steel grade should I use for food processing?
304L is the standard for most food-contact equipment; 316L is recommended where chlorides, acids or aggressive cleaning chemicals are present. Both ship with mill certificates and PMI reports on request.
What rebar grade is used in Poland?
European projects commonly specify EN 10080 / B500B ribbed rebar with CE marking support documentation; ASTM A615 Grade 40 and 60 are available for American-spec projects.
Technical and Product Selection FAQ
How do I choose the right steel grade for my application?
Tell us the application, operating conditions and any governing standard, and our engineers confirm the correct grade and specification. For structural use we check EN 10219 / ASTM A500; for pressure service ASTM A106 / API 5L; for outdoor exposure the appropriate zinc coating class; for food contact stainless 304L or 316L.
What is the difference between hot-dip and electro-galvanized?
Hot-dip galvanizing immerses the steel in molten zinc at about 450 °C, producing a thick coating (typically 275–600 g/m²) with excellent corrosion resistance for outdoor use. Electro-galvanizing applies a thin zinc layer electrically (about 20–40 g/m²), giving a smooth bright finish for interior and fast-moving applications.
Can you match specific EN and DIN standards?
Yes. We regularly produce to EN 10219, EN 10255, EN 39, EN 10056, EN 10130, EN 10346, DIN 2440 and many others. Send your standard and we confirm availability and documentation before quoting.
What certificates are available for CE marking?
For construction products we provide mill certificates, test reports and, where required, Declaration of Performance documentation to support CE marking of steel structures in the EU.
How is coating thickness measured on galvanized products?
Coating weight is measured by the magnetic or gravimetric method per ISO 1461 / EN 10346, and coating thickness follows from the measured weight. Results are stated on the batch certificate.
What does EN 10204 3.1 certification mean?
An EN 10204 3.1 certificate is issued by the manufacturer with inspection performed by their authorised inspection representative, stating the heat number, chemical composition and mechanical test results for the batch. It is the industry standard for steel deliveries to the EU.
Do you supply material with special packing for warehouse storage?
Yes. Packing is adapted to your storage and handling: bundles with slings, pallets, individual wrapping, rust-preventive oil, protective film for painted surfaces, and clear marking for stock management.
What information do I need for a complete quotation?
Product, standard and grade, dimensions (diameter, wall thickness or gauge, width, length), coating or finish, quantity in tons or pieces, destination port and any inspection requirements. With these, we quote within 24 hours.
Can you hold production slots for regular orders?
Yes. Customers on monthly supply programs receive reserved production capacity, which protects delivery dates and pricing during market fluctuations.
Do you offer private labelling for distributors?
Yes. Products and packaging can carry your brand, with documents aligned to your company name, so distributors can resell under their own label without additional re-marking.
Still Have Questions?
If your question is not covered above, contact our export office directly: email [email protected], WhatsApp +86-186-2208-8833, or use the contact form. Our technical and sales teams respond within 24 hours with answers in English or Polish.
Can I receive export documentation in Polish?
Export documents (commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin) are issued in English as standard. Mill test certificates can include a Polish translation of the key fields on request, so your quality department and customs agency have full clarity.
What are the typical lead times for different products?
Standard products — pipes, coils, sheets, angles — are produced in 15–25 days; scaffolding systems and prefabricated houses in 25–35 days; special productions and non-standard sizes are agreed individually before order confirmation.
Need a Quote for Your Project?
Send your specification to [email protected] or message us on WhatsApp +86 186 2208 8833. We respond within 24 hours.
Request a Quote