What Is an HS Code?

Category: Customs Author: Baudouin de Dreuille Date: 6/9/2024 Reading time: 2 min

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Learn how HS codes work in this article.

In order to harmonize customs clearance procedures worldwide, every commodity is classified under an HS code (a sequence of at least 6 digits). This HS code precisely determines the exact nature of an imported product. Each country then adapts the HS code as it sees fit—some countries or economic zones use 10 digits, as in Europe, others only 6, and some may go up to 14 digits.

Important: The structure of an HS code is always the same.

The first 6 digits are universal regardless of the country, the next 2 digits are specific to a customs union (e.g., the EU), and the last 2 are country-specific (e.g., the US). In Europe, it is always best to have all 10 digits for maximum precision, but having 8 digits is still sufficient to import or export a product.

You can find all European HS codes on the TARIC website.

Practical Example

The first 2 digits correspond to the chapter, the next 2 to the heading, and the following 2 to the subheading. Additional digits provide further precision depending on the geographic area.

Good to Know

Although the customs broker has a duty of advice regarding the HS code to use, it is ultimately the importer’s/exporter’s responsibility to provide the correct HS codes.