Legal Documentation

Terms of Service

Please read these terms carefully before engaging in any commercial transaction with us. These terms govern all B2B trade relationships for seamless steel pipe and related steel products.

Last Updated: June 1, 2025  ·  Effective Date: June 1, 2025

1

Scope & Applicability

These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("Buyer," "Client," or "Customer") and our company ("Supplier," "we," "us," or "our") governing all inquiries, quotations, purchase orders, contracts, and transactions related to the supply of seamless steel pipes and related steel products.

These Terms apply exclusively to business-to-business (B2B) transactions. By submitting a purchase order, signing a sales contract, or otherwise engaging in commercial activity with us, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms.

These Terms apply to all product categories we supply, including but not limited to:

  • Carbon Steel Seamless Pipes -- structural, mechanical, and general-purpose applications
  • Alloy Steel Pipes -- high-temperature and high-pressure service
  • Boiler & Heat Exchanger Tubes -- power generation and energy sector
  • Mechanical Structure Tubes -- agricultural machinery, mining equipment, and engineering

Any deviations from these Terms must be agreed upon in writing and signed by authorized representatives of both parties.


2

Definitions

"Mill Certificate" (MTC) -- A document issued by the steel manufacturer certifying chemical composition, mechanical properties, and compliance with applicable standards (e.g., ASTM, DIN, GB, API, EN).

"Purchase Order" (PO) -- A formal written document issued by the Buyer specifying product specifications, quantity, price, delivery terms, and other commercial conditions.

"Proforma Invoice" (PI) -- A preliminary invoice issued by the Supplier confirming agreed commercial terms prior to payment.

"Incoterms" -- International Commercial Terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), as specified in each individual sales contract.

"Tolerance" -- Permissible deviation in dimensions, weight, or chemical/mechanical properties as defined by the applicable international standard.

"Lead Time" -- The period from order confirmation and receipt of deposit to readiness for shipment at the agreed delivery point.

"Force Majeure" -- Circumstances beyond the reasonable control of either party, including but not limited to natural disasters, war, government actions, port closures, or pandemic-related restrictions.


3

Quotations & Orders

3.1 Quotation Validity. All quotations issued by us are valid for a period of 7 calendar days from the date of issuance unless otherwise stated in writing. Prices are subject to change based on raw material market fluctuations, exchange rate movements, and freight cost variations after the validity period expires.

3.2 Order Placement. An order is deemed confirmed only upon: (a) receipt of a signed Purchase Order or Sales Contract; and (b) receipt of the agreed deposit payment as specified in the Proforma Invoice. Verbal agreements or email confirmations alone do not constitute a binding order.

3.3 Order Accuracy. The Buyer is solely responsible for ensuring that all specifications stated in the Purchase Order -- including material grade, standard, outer diameter, wall thickness, length, quantity, and end-use requirements -- are accurate and complete. We shall not be liable for non-conformance arising from incorrect or incomplete specifications provided by the Buyer.

3.4 Order Amendments. Once an order is confirmed and production has commenced, amendments to specifications or quantities may not be possible. Any change requests must be submitted in writing and are subject to our written acceptance, potential price adjustments, and revised delivery schedules.

3.5 Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). Minimum order quantities apply per product grade and specification. MOQ requirements will be communicated at the quotation stage and vary based on product type and sourcing conditions.


4

Pricing & Payment

4.1 Currency. All prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD) unless otherwise agreed in writing. We reserve the right to adjust pricing if significant exchange rate fluctuations (exceeding ±3%) occur between quotation and order confirmation.

4.2 Payment Terms. Standard payment terms are as follows:

T/T (Telegraphic Transfer): 30% deposit upon order confirmation; 70% balance payment against copy of Bill of Lading (B/L) or prior to shipment, as agreed in the Proforma Invoice.

L/C (Letter of Credit): Irrevocable, at-sight Letter of Credit from a reputable bank acceptable to us. L/C terms must be agreed upon prior to order confirmation. All bank charges outside the Supplier's country are for the Buyer's account.

Other Terms: Subject to individual negotiation and credit assessment for established long-term clients.

4.3 Late Payment. Overdue payments will accrue interest at a rate of 1.5% per month (or the maximum rate permitted by applicable law, whichever is lower) from the due date until full settlement. We reserve the right to suspend shipments for any outstanding unpaid orders.

4.4 Taxes & Duties. All prices are exclusive of import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, and any other taxes or levies applicable in the Buyer's country. These are entirely the Buyer's responsibility.

4.5 Bank Charges. Each party bears their own bank charges within their respective country. Payments must arrive net of all deductions; any shortfall due to bank fees must be reimbursed by the Buyer.


5

Product Specifications & Standards

5.1 Applicable Standards. Products are manufactured and tested in accordance with the international or national standards specified in the Purchase Order or Sales Contract. Commonly applied standards include ASTM A106, ASTM A53, DIN 2448, GB/T 8162, GB/T 8163, API 5L, EN 10210, and equivalent standards, as applicable to the product and end-use.

5.2 Dimensional Tolerances. Dimensional tolerances (outer diameter, wall thickness, length, straightness, and weight) shall conform to the applicable standard. Standard mill tolerances apply unless tighter tolerances are explicitly agreed in writing and reflected in the price.

5.3 Chemical & Mechanical Properties. All products will be supplied with Mill Test Certificates (MTC) confirming compliance with specified chemical composition and mechanical properties. MTC documents are issued by the producing mill and are provided as part of the standard documentation package.

5.4 Surface Condition. Products will be supplied in the standard surface condition per the applicable standard (e.g., black painted, varnished, or bare). Special surface treatments (hot-dip galvanizing, epoxy coating, etc.) must be specified at the order stage and may affect pricing and lead time.

5.5 End Finishing. Standard plain ends (PE) apply unless beveled ends (BE) or threaded ends are specified. End caps or thread protectors will be applied where applicable.


6

Delivery & Shipping

6.1 Incoterms. Delivery terms shall be as specified in the Sales Contract or Proforma Invoice (e.g., FOB, CFR, CIF, EXW). The applicable Incoterms edition shall be Incoterms® 2020 unless otherwise stated.

6.2 Lead Time. Estimated lead times are provided at the quotation stage and are indicative only. Lead times commence from the date of order confirmation AND receipt of the agreed deposit. We shall not be held liable for delays caused by mill production schedules, raw material availability, port congestion, shipping line delays, or Force Majeure events.

6.3 Partial Shipments. Unless expressly prohibited in the Purchase Order, partial shipments are permitted. Each partial shipment will be invoiced separately.

6.4 Shipping Documents. Standard export documentation includes: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (or Airway Bill), Certificate of Origin, and Mill Test Certificate. Additional documents (e.g., SGS inspection certificate, fumigation certificate, Form A/GSP certificate) must be requested at the order stage and may incur additional charges.

6.5 Packaging. Products will be packaged in accordance with standard export practices -- typically in bundles secured with steel strapping, loaded in containers or on flat-rack/open-top containers as appropriate for the dimensions. Special packaging requirements must be specified in advance.

6.6 Risk Transfer. Risk of loss or damage passes to the Buyer at the point defined by the agreed Incoterm. Once risk has transferred, we bear no liability for loss, damage, or deterioration of goods during transit.


7

Inspection & Acceptance

7.1 Pre-Shipment Inspection. The Buyer may, at their own cost, arrange for a third-party inspection (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek) prior to shipment. Inspection arrangements must be communicated at least 5 business days before the scheduled shipment date. We will provide reasonable cooperation with the inspection process.

7.2 Acceptance at Destination. Upon receipt of goods, the Buyer must inspect the shipment within 14 calendar days of delivery. Any visible damage, shortage, or non-conformance must be reported to us in writing within this period, supported by photographic evidence and a written inspection report.

7.3 Deemed Acceptance. Failure to raise a written claim within 14 calendar days of delivery shall constitute acceptance of the goods as conforming to the contract specifications.

7.4 Weight Measurement. Actual shipped weight as stated on the Bill of Lading and Packing List shall be the basis for invoicing. A weight tolerance of ±10% on total order quantity is standard per industry practice and shall not constitute a breach of contract.


8

Quality & Warranty

8.1 Quality Assurance. All products are sourced from certified Chinese steel mills holding relevant quality management certifications (ISO 9001, API 5L monogram, or equivalent). We provide MTC documentation for every shipment as standard practice.

8.2 Limited Warranty. We warrant that products supplied will conform to the specifications and standards stated in the confirmed Sales Contract at the time of shipment. This warranty is limited to material defects attributable to manufacturing.

8.3 Warranty Exclusions. The warranty does not cover defects or failures arising from:

  • Improper storage, handling, or installation by the Buyer or end-user
  • Use beyond rated specifications or for applications not disclosed at the time of order
  • Damage caused during transit after risk transfer to the Buyer
  • Normal corrosion, wear, or oxidation during storage
  • Modifications, welding, or processing performed by the Buyer or third parties

8.4 Warranty Period. Any warranty claim must be submitted within 60 calendar days from the date of arrival at the destination port. Claims submitted after this period will not be considered.


9

Returns & Claims

9.1 Claim Procedure. All quality claims must be submitted in writing and must include: (a) Purchase Order number and invoice reference; (b) description of the alleged non-conformance; (c) photographic or video evidence; (d) third-party inspection report where applicable; (e) quantity and estimated value of affected goods.

9.2 Return Policy. Goods may not be returned without our prior written authorization. Unauthorized returns will not be accepted and may be returned to the Buyer at their cost. Return shipping costs are the Buyer's responsibility unless the claim is confirmed as a manufacturing defect attributable to us.

9.3 Remedies. Upon confirmation of a valid claim, our liability shall be limited, at our sole discretion, to one of the following remedies: (a) replacement of the defective goods; (b) a price reduction or credit note for the affected portion; or (c) refund of the purchase price for the confirmed defective quantity. We shall not be liable for any consequential, indirect, or punitive damages.

9.4 Order Cancellation. Confirmed orders may not be cancelled once production has commenced. Cancellation requests prior to production commencement must be submitted in writing and are subject to our written approval. Any costs already incurred (mill order placement, raw materials, processing fees) will be charged to the Buyer.


10

Intellectual Property

10.1 Our IP. All content on our website, marketing materials, product catalogues, technical documentation, and pricing information is our proprietary intellectual property or that of our licensed partners. No part may be reproduced, distributed, or used for commercial purposes without our prior written consent.

10.2 Buyer's IP. Where the Buyer provides custom drawings, specifications, or branding requirements for OEM/custom production, the Buyer warrants that they hold all necessary rights to such materials and shall indemnify us against any third-party intellectual property claims arising from our compliance with such requirements.

10.3 Confidential Designs. Custom mold designs, tooling, and product configurations developed specifically for a Buyer shall not be used for other customers without the Buyer's written consent, provided the Buyer has fully paid for the associated tooling costs.


11

Confidentiality

11.1 Mutual Confidentiality. Both parties agree to keep confidential all non-public commercial information exchanged in the course of the business relationship, including but not limited to pricing, supplier identities, customer lists, technical specifications, and business strategies.

11.2 Disclosure Restrictions. Neither party shall disclose confidential information to third parties without the prior written consent of the disclosing party, except as required by applicable law or regulatory authority.

11.3 Duration. Confidentiality obligations shall survive the termination of any individual transaction or business relationship for a period of 3 years.


12

Limitation of Liability

⚠ Important Notice

Please read this section carefully as it limits our liability to you.

12.1 Cap on Liability. Our total aggregate liability to the Buyer under or in connection with any transaction shall not exceed the total invoice value of the specific shipment giving rise to the claim.

12.2 Exclusion of Consequential Loss. In no event shall we be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profit, loss of production, loss of contracts, business interruption, or reputational damage, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.

12.3 Third-Party Acts. We shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by acts or omissions of shipping companies, customs authorities, inspection bodies, or any other third parties involved in the transaction.


13

Force Majeure

13.1 Definition. Neither party shall be in breach of these Terms or liable for delay or failure to perform obligations if such delay or failure results from a Force Majeure event, including but not limited to: acts of God, earthquakes, floods, fire, war, armed conflict, terrorism, government sanctions or export restrictions, pandemic or epidemic declarations, major port closures, or nationwide transportation disruptions.

13.2 Notification. The affected party must notify the other party in writing within 5 business days of the Force Majeure event occurring, providing details of the nature, expected duration, and impact on contractual obligations.

13.3 Mitigation. The affected party shall use reasonable efforts to mitigate the impact of the Force Majeure event and resume performance as soon as practicable.

13.4 Prolonged Force Majeure. If a Force Majeure event continues for more than 60 consecutive days, either party may terminate the affected order by written notice without penalty, subject to settlement of amounts already due for goods shipped or services rendered.


14

Governing Law & Dispute Resolution

14.1 Governing Law. Unless otherwise agreed in a specific Sales Contract, these Terms and all transactions hereunder shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the People's Republic of China, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

14.2 Amicable Resolution. In the event of any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms or any transaction, the parties shall first attempt to resolve the matter through good-faith negotiation within 30 calendar days of written notice of the dispute.

14.3 Arbitration. If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation, it shall be submitted to and finally resolved by arbitration administered by the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC) in accordance with its arbitration rules then in force. The arbitration shall be conducted in English. The arbitral award shall be final and binding on both parties.

14.4 Continued Performance. Pending resolution of any dispute, both parties shall continue to perform their respective obligations under any unaffected orders to the extent practicable.


15

Amendments & Contact

15.1 Amendments. We reserve the right to update or modify these Terms at any time. Updated Terms will be published on our website and will apply to all new orders placed after the effective date of the revision. Continued business engagement after such changes constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

15.2 Severability. If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

15.3 Entire Agreement. These Terms, together with any signed Sales Contract or Purchase Order, constitute the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter and supersede all prior discussions, representations, and understandings.

15.4 Contact Us. For questions, clarifications, or formal notices regarding these Terms, please contact our commercial team:

Email: sales@yourcompany.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +86 XXX XXXX XXXX
Address: [Your Company Address], China

Questions About Our Terms?

Our commercial team is available to clarify any aspect of these Terms before you place your order. We are committed to transparent, professional B2B partnerships.