How to Look Up HS Codes and Find Your Product's Duty Rate

Every Product Has a Number — And It Determines Your Costs

The Harmonised System (HS) is an international classification system that assigns a code to every tradeable product. This code determines your duty rate, any restrictions, and whether trade agreements apply. Getting it wrong can mean overpaying duty, underpaying (which leads to penalties), or having your goods held at customs.

How HS Codes Work

HS codes follow a hierarchical structure:

The first six digits are internationally standardised. Every country uses the same 6-digit codes. Beyond that, countries add their own digits for more specific classification.

Free Tools for HS Code Lookup

LandedCost.io HS Code Tool

The free HS code lookup tool searches the UK Trade Tariff database. Enter a product description and get matching codes with duty rates.

Official Government Databases

• UK: UK Trade Tariff (trade-tariff.service.gov.uk)
• EU: TARIC (Access2Markets)
• US: USITC Harmonised Tariff Schedule (hts.usitc.gov)
• WCO: World Customs Organisation reference

Step-by-Step: Finding Your HS Code

Step 1: Start Broad

Think about what your product is, not what it does. A Bluetooth speaker is classified by its function (loudspeaker) not its technology (Bluetooth).

Step 2: Search by Description

Enter your product description in the HS code lookup tool. Try different descriptions:

• "Bluetooth speaker" → "loudspeaker"
• "Yoga mat" → "exercise mat" or "floor covering"
• "Phone case" → "protective case" or "plastic article"

Step 3: Read the Headings

HS codes have legal notes that define exactly what falls under each heading. Read these carefully — small distinctions matter. A "case" for a phone might be classified differently depending on whether it's leather, plastic, or textile.

Step 4: Check the Duty Rate

Once you have the code, look up the duty rate for your importing country. Rates vary by:

• Country of origin — different rates for different source countries
• Trade agreements — preferential rates may apply
• Quantity/value thresholds — some products have tariff rate quotas

Step 5: Verify with Your Broker

If you're not confident in your classification, ask your customs broker. Misclassification — even unintentional — can result in penalties and backdated duty demands.

Common Classification Traps

Material matters

A bag made of leather (Chapter 42) is classified differently from the same bag made of textile (Chapter 63).

Composite products

Products made of multiple materials are classified by their essential character. A product that's 70% plastic and 30% metal is usually classified as a plastic article.

Sets and kits

A set of products sold together is classified by the item that gives the set its essential character. A gift set might be classified by the main product, not the box it comes in.

Finished vs unfinished

A product shipped unassembled may be classified differently from the finished product. Sometimes this can be advantageous (lower duty rate on components).

What Happens If You Get It Wrong

Underpayment

If customs determines you used the wrong HS code and paid less duty than owed, they can:

• Demand backdated payment (up to 3 years in most countries)
• Charge interest on the underpayment
• Issue penalties (up to 100% of the underpaid amount in some jurisdictions)

Overpayment

If you used a code with a higher duty rate, you overpaid. You can apply for a refund, but the process takes time and effort.

Pro Tips

1. Always check the HS code before ordering — use the HS code lookup tool early in your sourcing process
2. Don't rely on your supplier's classification — they may use a different country's system or simply guess
3. Document your reasoning — keep notes on why you chose a specific code
4. Get a binding ruling — if your product is borderline, apply for an advance ruling from customs for certainty
5. Factor duty into your cost model — use LandedCost.io's duty engine to calculate duty as part of your landed cost