How the code structure works
HS classification moves from broad sections and two-digit chapters to four-digit headings and six-digit subheadings. Many customs authorities then add two or more digits for their national tariff schedule.
Product names alone are rarely enough. Material, composition, function, manufacturing method, presentation, and intended use can change the result.
HS sections and chapter ranges
Search by section, chapter range, product family, or example. This table is an orientation map rather than a tariff determination.
| Section | Chapters | Product family | Typical contents |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | 01–05 | Live animals & animal products | Animals, meat, fish, dairy, other animal products |
| II | 06–14 | Vegetable products | Plants, vegetables, fruit, coffee, cereals, seeds |
| III | 15 | Animal or vegetable fats & oils | Fats, oils, waxes and prepared edible fats |
| IV | 16–24 | Prepared food, beverages & tobacco | Prepared foods, sugar, cocoa, drinks, residues, tobacco |
| V | 25–27 | Mineral products | Salt, ores, mineral fuels and oils |
| VI | 28–38 | Chemical & allied products | Chemicals, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, cosmetics |
| VII | 39–40 | Plastics & rubber | Plastic articles, natural and synthetic rubber |
| VIII | 41–43 | Hides, leather & fur | Raw hides, leather goods, travel goods, furskins |
| IX | 44–46 | Wood & wood products | Wood, cork, basketware and plaiting materials |
| X | 47–49 | Wood pulp, paper & print | Pulp, paper, paperboard, books and printed matter |
| XI | 50–63 | Textiles & textile articles | Silk, wool, cotton, yarn, apparel and made-up textiles |
| XII | 64–67 | Footwear, headgear & related articles | Shoes, hats, umbrellas, feathers and artificial flowers |
| XIII | 68–70 | Stone, ceramics & glass | Stone articles, plaster, cement, ceramics and glass |
| XIV | 71 | Precious materials | Pearls, precious stones, metals, jewellery and coin |
| XV | 72–83 | Base metals & articles | Iron, steel, copper, aluminium, tools and hardware |
| XVI | 84–85 | Machinery & electrical equipment | Mechanical machinery, electronics and components |
| XVII | 86–89 | Transport equipment | Railway equipment, vehicles, aircraft, ships and boats |
| XVIII | 90–92 | Precision instruments | Optical, medical, measuring and musical instruments |
| XIX | 93 | Arms & ammunition | Weapons, ammunition, parts and accessories |
| XX | 94–96 | Miscellaneous manufactured articles | Furniture, toys, sports goods and other articles |
| XXI | 97 | Works of art & antiques | Art, collectors’ pieces and antiques |
No matching entries. Try a broader term or code.
Prepare a defensible classification request
- Commercial product name and plain-language description
- Primary function and intended end use
- Materials or ingredients with percentage composition
- Technical datasheet, catalogue, drawing or photo
- Model number and manufacturing process where relevant
- Destination country and proposed code, if one exists
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an HS code and an HTS code?
The Harmonized System provides the internationally shared six-digit foundation. An HTS or other national tariff code extends that foundation with country-specific digits used for duty, statistics, or regulatory controls.
Can a product have different tariff codes in different countries?
Yes. The first six digits are internationally harmonized, but additional national digits and legal interpretations can differ in the importing country.
Who is responsible for the final classification?
The importer or declarant is normally responsible under the applicable customs law. Use the destination customs tariff, legal notes, rulings, and professional advice when the classification is material or uncertain.
Standards and authoritative sources
Use these primary sources when a booking, customs entry, safety rule, or equipment certificate requires authoritative confirmation.
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Reference reviewed 31 August 2026. General planning guidance only; booking specifications, regulations, and tariff classifications take precedence.