HS/HTS Tariff Code Lookup

What Is the Harmonized System?

The Harmonized System (HS) is a six-digit international classification for traded goods, maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by more than 200 countries as the basis for their customs tariffs, trade statistics, and rules of origin. Every physical commodity in international trade has a six-digit HS code. The first two digits identify the chapter (96 chapters covering live animals through works of art), the next two identify the heading within the chapter, and the final two identify the subheading. Countries extend these six digits with their own statistical suffixes — the United States uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which adds two more digits for the tariff line and another two for statistical reporting, producing the full 10-digit HTSUS number.

Why Classification Matters

The HTS code drives the duty rate, quota eligibility, trade-program preferences (USMCA, GSP, KORUS, etc.), anti-dumping orders, Section 301/232 tariffs, and the documentation required at entry. A wrong code means overpaying duties at best and binding corrections, penalties, or seizures at worst. Importers are ultimately responsible for correct classification under the customs law "reasonable care" standard — the customs broker helps, but the legal liability stays with the importer of record. This tool is a free research aid, not binding advice; for large-value or uncertain entries, get a binding ruling from US CBP.

Classification Methodology

Classification follows the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs), applied in order. GRI 1 says classification is determined by the terms of the headings and section/chapter notes. GRI 2 covers incomplete and mixed articles. GRI 3 covers items that fall under multiple headings (most specific wins, then essential character, then last-in-numerical-order). GRI 4 is the default for otherwise-unclassified goods. Practical implication: start with the most specific description that matches your commodity, then work up to the chapter and heading, and verify against the chapter and section notes.

Integrating HTS into Your Systems

Sophisticated importers attach HTS codes and duty rates directly to the item master so that every purchase order, invoice, and inbound receipt carries accurate landed-cost data. Pair this tool with the Landed Cost Calculator to see how duty rates flow through to per-unit cost. For automated HTS tagging, customs-broker EDI feeds, landed-cost updates in your ERP, and duty-optimization analysis, learn about integration services, custom reporting, or get in touch.