A Harmonized Tariff Schedule code is a jurisdiction-specific tariff classification built on the international Harmonized System. It extends the internationally harmonized six-digit heading with national digits used for duty rates, trade remedies, quotas and reporting.
What does the code determine?
- Ordinary customs duty rate
- Preferential tariff eligibility
- Anti-dumping or countervailing measures
- Quota or licensing requirements
- Import restrictions and statistical reporting
- Other government agency requirements
HTS code vs. HS code
The HS code refers to the international classification through six digits. An HTS code extends that structure for a particular country's import tariff. The same product can share the first six digits but have different national suffixes.
How is a product classified?
Classification considers the product's material, function, degree of manufacture, composition and presentation, then applies the tariff's legal headings, section and chapter notes and interpretive rules. Product names alone are rarely enough.
What evidence should support the code?
Keep technical specifications, drawings, composition, intended use, catalogs, samples where relevant, prior rulings and the classification rationale. Revisit the code when the product changes.
What are the consequences of error?
Misclassification can cause underpaid duty, overpayment, delayed clearance, penalties, denied preference or incorrect trade statistics. A supplier-provided code is useful input but should not be accepted without review.
