What is an HS Code?

The HS Code is also known as a Harmonized Code or Commodity Code. The HS or HTS stands for Harmonized System or Harmonized Tariff System.

It is a standardized international system comprising of 6-10 digits to classify globally traded products and is a requirement for all international shipments.

The number is used by customs to identify the products that have been shipped across international borders and is required for each country that you are importing into.

The HS Code system was developed and is maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is an independent intergovernmental organization based in Brussels, Belgium.

The HS Code is potentially different between countries for the same product. While each country will share the heading and sub-heading (first six digits) the statistical heading is often different (the final four digits).