HS code
Also: Harmonized System code · HS number
The six-digit international product code maintained by the World Customs Organization, shared by every country that uses the Harmonized System.
Definition
An HS code is a six-digit number that identifies a product in international trade. It is set by the World Customs Organization and used by more than 200 countries, so the first six digits are the same everywhere for a given product.
Those six digits break down as a 2-digit chapter, a 4-digit heading and a 6-digit subheading. Countries then add their own digits on top for duty and statistics — the US adds four to make the 10-digit HTS number.
Worked example
A cotton knit T-shirt is HS 6109.10 worldwide: chapter 61 (knitted apparel), heading 6109 (T-shirts and singlets), subheading 6109.10 (of cotton). The US extends this to 6109.10.0060 to charge duty.
Related codes & tools
Related terms
Sources
Definitions are informational, not customs rulings. Confirm rates against the schedule of record and see our methodology & disclaimer.