HS Code (Harmonized System Code)

The HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is a standardized numerical code established by the World Customs Organization (WCO) under the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System for classifying internationally traded goods. It typically consists of 6 digits, which countries may extend to 8-10 digits. It is widely used in customs declaration, determination of tariff rates, trade statistics, rules of origin, and eligibility for free trade agreement preferences. In practice, note that the same product may be classified under different codes in different countries, and incorrect coding can lead to customs clearance delays, fines, or loss of preferential tariff treatment. Compared with 'tariff schedule number,' the HS Code is the internationally standardized first 6 digits, while the tariff schedule number is the complete code refined by each country on that basis; it is often used interchangeably with 'commodity code,' but strictly speaking, commodity code may refer to an internal company code. Foreign trade practitioners should classify products accurately based on material, function, and use, and update regularly to respond to HS version changes.