How do I find my HTS code?

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.

Do HTS codes expire?

In the U.S. when an HTS code is created, it has an expiration date to allow for updates. Because of this, it is important to constantly ensure that the codes you are using are valid.

Who is responsible for providing HTS codes?

The World Customs Organization
The World Customs Organization (WCO) maintains the Harmonized Tariff Description and Coding Schedule (HTS). Over 170 countries participate in WCO’s HTS system.

What if HS Code is wrong?

It is the legal responsibility of the importer/exporter to declare the correct HS Codes. Incorrect HS codes used may result in over or underpayment of duties and taxes. Underpayment of duties may be seen as duty evasion and may result in huge fines or/and penalties.

What is HTS code used for?

An HS or HTS code stands for Harmonized System or Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), the codes are used to classify and define internationally traded goods.

How often do HTS codes change?

The HS nomenclature is updated every five years, with the most recent update in 2017. 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.

Why is HS code required?

HS Codes are important for government officials to identify goods being imported and exported in order to collect the proper taxes. They identify products that are being imported or exported through a country’s borders. They classify and categorize products in a worldwide system used for customs clearance purposes.

How many digits is a HTS code?

10 digits
HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes are product classification codes between 8-10 digits. The first six digits are an HS code, and the countries of import assign the subsequent digits to provide additional classification. U.S. HTS codes are 10 digits and are administered by the U.S. International Trade Commission.

Why does the HTS code affect your business?

There are many reasons why the HTS code of your product might affect your business, whether you export or import, or even if you are a totally domestic company, selling your product only to fellow American customers. Here are a few of the major issues determined largely by a product’s HTS code:

Do you need to know about the HTS system?

The HTS system applies to every import and every export; that alone is a good reason for the small-business owner to pay attention to it. But the HTS system is about more than just straight duty rates.

Where can I find the current version of the HTS?

The most current version of the U.S. HTS is always found on the United States International Trade Commission website.

How many digits are in an HS code?

Each HS code consists of at least six digits, usually written in the format ‘XXXX.XX’. These six digits combine three sets of the hierarchical two-digit codes used in the HS code system. For shippers, the process of finding the right HS code for your product starts with the Section numbers.