This article overviews the HS Code system and describes how to associate HS Codes with saved products on Easyship.
What is an HS Code
The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as HS Codes, HTS Codes, or Tariff Numbers, is a 6 to 14-digit code classifies a product at customs. The World Customs Organization (WCO) organizes the HS system and updates it every five years.
Present on the Commercial Invoice, customs authorities use HS Codes to identify the content of parcels and evaluate the duty owed.
Breakdown of an HS Code
- Chapter: the first two digits
- Heading: the second two digits
- Subheading: the third two digits
Example: 6103.10
- 61 = articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted
- 6103 = Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, separate waistcoats, tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear)
- 6103.10 = Men's or boys' suits of textile materials, knitted or crocheted (excl. tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear)
The more digits added, the more precise it gets.
Benefits of Custom HS Codes
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Accurate product declaration: It helps customs authorities determine the contents of your shipment. Specifying an HS code allows any specific clearance process or restriction to be swiftly determined, saving time during customs clearance.
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Effect on duty rate: Duty is calculated based on the product's country of origin, the shipment's destination, the HS code used, and local regulations. The more accurate the HS code, the more precise the duty rate.
Which HS Code to Use
Easyship has integrated the entire database of 6-digit HS codes from the World Customs Organisation into your dashboard, enabling an effortless search process.
Alternatively, you can also find a complete list of HS codes here:
WTO | Tariff Download Facility: WTO Tariff Database
Note: There are some variants based on specific regulations between countries. Always be as precise as possible when declaring customs information.
Existing Easyship Categories
If you still do not know which HS code to use or want to keep it simple, you can use the Easyship pre-loaded categories for product declaration. The system will assign an HS code automatically, as it did before.
How to Use Custom HS Codes on Easyship
Search HS Codes or Category: Easyship provides the search feature for HS Code. You can search the HS Code by description or numerical code.
Auto-calculate the duties: The duties rate calculates automatically depending on the HS code selected, the origin, and the destination of your shipment.
HS Code on the Commercial Invoice: Upon shipment creation and subsequent document generation, the commercial invoice will display the selected HS Code.
Add product: Each saved product can be assigned an HS Code. We recommend adding complete Product information to save time when creating shipments.
