Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), the codes are used to classify and define internationally traded goods. ... A code with six digits is a universal standard (HS Code) and a code with 7-10 digits (HTS Code) is often unique after the 6th digit and determined by individual countries of import.

Are HTS codes country specific?

The first six digits of the HTS code identify all items in international trade and are the same for all countries that use the HTS. The last two or four digits are country specific; in the U.S. these last four digits provide the duty rate and balance of trade statistical reporting suffix for the imported goods.

Is HS code same for all countries?

Being an internationally recognized standard, the first 6 digits of the HSN Code are the same for all the countries. But for further classification countries have added more digits to their respective HS Code systems.

How do I know what HTS code to use?

If you don't know the HTS Code of your product, you can try to determine the HTS Code using the general rules of interpretation (GRI's) to find the HTS that best fits your product. There is a searchable function on the USITC site (shown below) or Flexport's HS Code Lookup Tool.

Are HS codes the same for import and export?

HS Codes play an important role in international imports and exports. They are 6-10 digit codes assigned to specific goods by customs authorities. These codes are used all around the world, making cargo easily identifiable and ensuring the seamless delivery of goods from Point A to Point B.

How to read HTS code and duties in 5 minutes!

How do I find my UK HS code?

You can find the HS Code for your product in the UK with the Tariff Classification tool from . GOV website. Once you are on this website you will need to find a description that is the closest to your product.

What if HS code is wrong?

Incorrect HS code usage means you end up paying a higher or lower rate of duty. When discovered, this can result in: Steep fines and penalties imposed by customs authorities. Denial of import-export privileges.

Is HTS and HS code same?

Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) Code. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule code is a 10-digit import classification system that is specific to the United States. ... An HTS code takes the same form as an HS code for the first six digits, and then has four differing last digits.

Do I need a HS tariff number?

No, they aren't a requirement, but they can help with faster processing of shipments and more accurate calculation of taxes and duties payable in the destination country. An Accurate Goods Description is required as this helps with the classification of items by carriers.

What is the difference between Schedule B and HTS?

A Schedule B number is a 10-digit code used in the U.S. to classify physical goods for export to another country. An HTS number is a 10-digit code used to classify physical goods imported into the U.S. from another country.

What HTS means?

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) was enacted by Congress and made effective on January 1, 1989, replacing the former Tariff Schedules of the United States. The HTS comprises a hierarchical structure for describing all goods in trade for duty, quota, and statistical purposes.

What is an HS number?

Harmonized System Numbers (HS) are four- or six-digit codes administered by the World Customs Organization to classify products being traded around the world. HS numbers are recognized globally and serve as the foundation for the United States' import/export classification system.

Why is HTS classification important?

These codes tell customs officials what is being imported, if the goods are admissible, and what taxes, if any, are due. Any importer who gets the classification wrong is violating import laws. As a result, the importer is vulnerable to delayed cycle times, confiscated shipments, and fines.

How HS and AHTN differ to each other?

The HS is the universal economic language and code for goods authored by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It is a six-digit Code common among all WCO member countries. The ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN) is an eight-digit HS-based commodity nomenclature common among the 10 ASEAN Member States.

How do I get a tariff number?

1. Discuss the product with a commodity specialist.
2. Access the HTSUS online.
3. Contact the port director where your merchandise will be entered.
4. Write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Where can I find HS Code?

For exporters or importers who are not sure of the HS/AHTN codes for their products, you can refer to the officers at the Malaysia Royal Customs Department Head Office or any of its branch offices for assistance. This service is provided free of charge. For more info, please visit

What is the HS code of cigarette?

24022090 - Cigarettes, containing tobacco: Other HS Code and Indian Harmonised System Code.

Does a commercial invoice need a value?

Even if the item is a sample, gift or return, it still has a value of at least the production costs. The value should be as accurate as possible. If customs question your valuation, it could cause delays and penalties.

Does UK use HS Code?

Imported goods into the UK use a 10 digit HS Code.

Is HS code same as commodity code UK?

Countries can use an additional 2-4 digits for country-specific categorizations. For example, the UK HS code relies on ten digit number usually called commodity code.

What is HS Code in shipping UK?

HS code is short for Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System. It's a list of numbers used by customs to classify a product.

What are the legal texts that comprise the Harmonized System?

Harmonized System Nomenclature (Legal text)

The Nomenclature includes the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System, the Section, Chapter and Subheading Notes, and the headings and subheadings.

Why do I need a tariff code?

It is used globally across international trade in order to accurately identify traded products. These HS numbers/codes are used by customs authorities in every part of the world in order to allocate the correct rate of duty and tax for each product.

Why determining customs tariffs harmonized customs code is important?

HS codes are used for a number of purposes. They enable the customs authorities to identify the product and apply the appropriate import duty as well as other taxes and trade measures. The HS classification plays an important role in determining the origin of goods.

Is HS code required on commercial invoice?

An HS code consists of at least six digits and is used by customs to classify the product being shipped. ... If you don't include the HS code on the commercial invoice and other shipping documents, you risk the receiver paying the wrong tax and could possibly delay the shipment.