The Harmonized System (HS) code is an international standard developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for classifying traded goods. HS codes allow countries to categorize imported and exported products in a systematic and uniform way. This article provides a comprehensive guide on HS codes including what they are, how they work, and tips for searching the HS code list.

What are HS Codes?

1. HS codes are a global system of codes used to classify traded goods. The codes are 6 to 10 digits long.
2. The HS coding system is managed by the WCO and used by over 200 countries and economies as a basis for customs tariffs, monitoring of controlled goods, trade policies, rules of origin, and the collection of trade statistics.
3. HS codes were introduced in 1988 and are updated every 5 years. The current version is the 2022 edition known as the Harmonized System 2022 (HS 2022).
4. HS codes categorize products in a hierarchical structure. The codes get more specific from left to right. The first 2 digits identify the broadest product category (i.e. 01-05 are live animals and animal products). The next 2 or more digits provide subcategories.
5. HS codes enable the tracking of goods for customs, statistical, and other purposes at national and international levels. They are essential for the smooth flow of international trade.

How HS Codes Work

6. The HS coding system assigns products numerical codes across 97 chapters covering more than 5000 product groups.
7. Chapters are broken down into headings (2-digit codes), subheadings (2 to 4 digits), and item codes (6 to 10 digits).
8. Headings provide general product categories. For example:

• 11 – Products of the milling industry
• 87 – Vehicles other than railway

6. Subheadings further divide headings into more specific groupings. For example:

• 1104 – Cereal grains otherwise worked
• 8703 – Motor cars and vehicles

6. The full HS codes with 6, 8, or 10 digits provide the greatest level of detail on products.
7. HS codes are standardized globally up to the 6-digit level. After that, countries can introduce national differences at the 8 and 10-digit levels.
8. Using the full HS code allows products to be precisely identified. For example:

• 10061090 – Semi-milled or wholly milled rice
• 87032319 – Motor cars, gasoline engine 1500 to 3000 cc

Searching the HS Code List

13. You can browse and search the official HS 2022 code list on the WCO website for free. Select the language then use headings, subheadings or text search.
14. The WCO also publishes the HS code list as a PDF which can be searched off-line. Download the latest HS 2022 edition (over 1000 pages).
15. Many national customs authorities also publish HS code lists. For example, you can find the US harmonized tariff schedule on the USITC website.
16. Third party websites like Trade Map, Searates, and Shipperoo offer HS code look-up tools. Simply enter a product description.
17. When searching HS codes:

• Start broad then narrow down – search 2 to 4-digit codes first.
• Try synonyms and related terms for the product.
• Check product specifications like composition, function, dimensions etc.
• Review product images if available.

13. If multiple HS codes seem applicable, the WCO suggests selecting the one that most specifically describes the product.
14. Contact the customs agency in your destination country for clarification if needed. They are the authority on classifying goods.

Tips for Using HS Codes

20. Confirm the latest HS edition – currently HS 2022. Older codes may no longer be valid.
21. Note any national differences. Some countries modify codes at the 8 to 10-digit level.
22. Include the full HS code on trade documents like customs declarations, invoices, and packing lists.
23. Double check HS codes with authorities if in doubt. Incorrect codes can lead to customs delays, fines or even seizures.
24. Save commonly used HS codes in your system or records for easy reference later.
25. Subscribe to HS code look-up services if frequently importing/exporting diverse goods.
26. Watch for announcements on the next HS edition – HS 2027 publishes in 2026.
27. If your product category is not listed, request a new HS code. Updates happen every 5 years.
28. Know duty rates associated with your HS codes to calculate import taxes and customs fees.
29. Analyze trade data trends for your HS product codes using resources like Trade Map.
30. Join HS committees in your industry to contribute expertise to future HS code changes.

Conclusion

31. The HS coding system is indispensable for classifying goods in international trade. Correct HS codes are essential for moving products efficiently across borders.
32. Search the official WCO HS code list first when classifying products. Then check national HS schedules for any modifications.
33. Include full and accurate HS codes on all customs and shipping documents to avoid costly delays or penalties.
34. Proactively manage your HS codes by saving commonly used ones, monitoring code changes, and analyzing code trends.
35. With an understanding of how HS codes work and tips for searching the HS list, you can properly classify goods and gain key insights into your international trade flows.