What is HS code?
HS code stands for Harmonized System code.
An HS code is the 6-digit customs code that classifies a product in the Harmonized System, used by more than 200 countries. Each country adds digits for its own tariff: the US uses 10-digit HTS codes, where the first 8 digits set the duty rate. Find yours with our HS code lookup.
Example
Cotton T-shirts are HS 6109.10. In the US that becomes HTS 6109.10.00, with a general duty rate of 16.5%.
Why it matters
The HS code decides your import duty, so a wrong code means paying the wrong duty, delays or penalties, and a landed cost that is off.
Calculate it: Landed Cost Calculator
True per-unit cost with freight and duty
Flashcard
What is HS code (Harmonized System code)?
Tap to reveal the answerThe 6-digit international customs code for a product. It sets which import duty applies; the US extends it to a 10-digit HTS code.
Related terms
Landed cost
Landed cost is the total cost of getting a product to where you sell it: product cost + freight + insurance + duties + customs and other fees.
Incoterms (FOB, EXW, CIF, DDP)
Incoterms are standard trade terms that define who pays for and is responsible for each stage of shipping. FOB: supplier delivers onto the ship; EXW: you collect from the factory; CIF: supplier pays freight and insurance to your port; DDP: supplier delivers duties paid.
CBM
CBM is the volume of a shipment in cubic meters (length × width × height in meters). Sea and air freight are priced on volume and weight.