HS code
The Harmonized System is maintained by the World Customs Organization. It organizes goods into chapters, headings, and 6-digit subheadings used by customs authorities around the world.
Practical guide
How HS and HTS codes work
HS codes are a shared global language for classifying traded goods. The first 6 digits are internationally harmonized; countries add more digits for duties, statistical categories, and local rules.
HTS code
In the United States, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule expands HS codes into 8- and 10-digit tariff lines. U.S. duty columns and special programs depend on the full HTS context.
Schedule B
U.S. exporters often use Schedule B numbers. A Schedule B number and an HTS number may differ after the first 6 digits, even when they describe related goods.
What changes the classification?
- Material composition, such as cotton, plastic, steel, leather, or mixed materials.
- Principal use, such as household, industrial, medical, automotive, or apparel use.
- Condition at import, such as finished goods, parts, sets, kits, or incomplete articles.
- Legal notes, chapter notes, explanatory notes, and customs rulings.
Safe workflow
- Search several product descriptions and likely codes.
- Compare nearby headings and subheadings.
- Read official tariff notes and any footnotes in the result.
- Search prior customs rulings for products with similar facts.
- Ask a broker or customs authority when the shipment has meaningful duty or compliance exposure.