Free HS Code Classifier
Instantly classify products and get HS code suggestions powered by AI. Use this free tool from Traddal to streamline customs documentation and tariff research.
How this tool helps your trade desk
- 1Enter a product description to get instant HS code classification powered by AI.
- 2The classifier analyzes your product details against official tariff schedules.
- 3Each result includes chapter, subheading, and full HS code with confidence levels.
- 4Use this tool to quickly identify potential HS codes before finalizing customs documentation.
What is HS Code Classification?
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers used to classify traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), it serves as the foundation for customs tariffs and the compilation of international trade statistics in more than 200 countries worldwide.
How HS Codes Work
HS codes are structured hierarchically with increasing levels of detail:
- Chapter (2 digits): Broad category of goods (e.g., "64" for footwear)
- Heading (4 digits): More specific product group (e.g., "6403" for leather footwear)
- Subheading (6 digits): Detailed product specification (e.g., "640391" for sports footwear)
- National Level (8-10 digits): Country-specific classifications for tariff purposes
The first six digits of an HS code are standardized internationally, ensuring consistency across borders. Countries may add additional digits for their own tariff and statistical purposes.
Why Accurate HS Code Classification is Critical
Proper HS code classification is not just a bureaucratic requirement—it's fundamental to successful international trade. Here's why getting it right matters:
Customs Duty Calculation
The HS code determines the duty rate applied to your goods. Using the wrong code can result in overpaying duties (cutting into your profits) or underpaying (leading to penalties, fines, and shipment delays). Different codes can have vastly different duty rates—sometimes the difference between 0% and 30% or more.
Legal Compliance
Customs authorities worldwide use HS codes to enforce import and export regulations. Incorrect classification can be considered misrepresentation or even fraud, potentially resulting in significant financial penalties, seizure of goods, criminal prosecution in severe cases, and loss of import/export privileges.
Trade Agreements & Preferential Rates
Many countries have free trade agreements (FTAs) that offer reduced or zero tariff rates for specific products. The HS code is essential for claiming these preferential rates. Using the correct code ensures you take full advantage of available trade benefits, potentially saving thousands in duty costs.
Customs Clearance Speed
Accurate HS codes facilitate faster customs clearance. Incorrect codes trigger audits, inspections, and delays that can increase storage costs at ports, delay delivery to customers, result in missed sales opportunities, and incur demurrage and detention charges.
Best Practices for Classification
- Use multiple sources to verify codes (like this free classifier)
- Consult the official HS nomenclature and explanatory notes
- Consider hiring a customs broker or classification specialist for complex products
- Request binding tariff rulings from customs authorities for high-value items
- Document your classification reasoning for audit purposes
- Review and update classifications regularly, especially when product specifications change
While our AI-powered classifier provides an excellent starting point, always verify critical classifications with customs authorities or qualified professionals, especially for high-value shipments or products with complex characteristics.
Frequently asked questions
The first 6 digits of HS codes are internationally standardized by the World Customs Organization. However, countries may add additional digits (typically 8-10 total) for their own tariff schedules and statistical purposes. Our classifier provides the base 6-digit international code.