Glossary: Customs Classification and Export Controls

Glossary

TariffPilot Glossary

The key terms of customs tariff classification and export controls, explained for trade compliance professionals. Each definition in one sentence, then in depth.

Customs Classification

Binding Tariff Information (BTI): Binding Tariff Information (BTI) is a legally binding decision issued on application by customs on the classification of a specific good. It provides legal certainty and binds holder and authorities. TariffPilot delivers the documented classification as the basis.
Combined Nomenclature (CN): The Combined Nomenclature (CN) is the EU's goods nomenclature, extending the six-digit HS code to eight digits. It is the basis for the Common Customs Tariff and EU trade statistics. TariffPilot always works on the current CN.
Customs Classification: Customs classification, also called tariff classification, is the process of assigning goods to a heading of the nomenclature using fixed rules. It follows the General Interpretation Rules. TariffPilot automates classification with AI and traceable reasoning.
Customs Tariff Number: The customs tariff number is a numeric code used to classify goods in the customs tariff; it sets the duty rate, import charges, and any prohibitions and restrictions. It builds on the six-digit HS code. TariffPilot determines it with AI and traceable reasoning.
EZT-Online (Electronic Customs Tariff): EZT-Online (Electronic Customs Tariff) is the electronic reference work of German customs. It maps TARIC plus national measures and provides the eleven-digit code number for imports into Germany. TariffPilot supports its determination.
General Interpretation Rules (GIR): The General Rules for the Interpretation (GIR) are a set of six rules that govern how goods are reliably classified in the nomenclature. They are the methodical basis of every classification. TariffPilot applies them systematically and traceably.
HS Code: The HS code (Harmonized System) is a globally standardized, six-digit system issued by the WCO for classifying goods. It is the basis of all national and regional customs tariffs. TariffPilot automatically assigns goods the correct HS code.
TARIC: TARIC is the integrated tariff of the European Union. It extends the eight-digit Combined Nomenclature with EU-wide measures such as duties and anti-dumping duties and is ten digits long. TariffPilot takes these measures into account during classification.
Tariff Code Revision (CN Revision): Tariff code revision is a TariffPilot feature that checks, after the annual update of the Combined Nomenclature, whether determined customs tariff numbers are still valid. It is not a legal term but a product feature for compliance maintenance.

Export Controls

BAFA: BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control) is the competent German authority for export control. It issues export licenses and runs the relevant procedures. TariffPilot supports the upstream goods check.
Dual-Use Correlation Table: The Dual-Use correlation table links customs tariff numbers to the positions of the EU dual-use list. It helps identify possible licensing requirements based on the commodity code. TariffPilot uses it for the automatic check of your goods.
Dual-Use Goods: Dual-use goods are goods with a dual purpose that can be used for both civilian and military ends. Their export may be subject to licensing. TariffPilot checks whether a good is listed as a dual-use good.
Dual-Use Regulation: The Dual-Use Regulation is the EU legal framework for exporting goods with both civilian and military uses. It determines which goods are listed and therefore subject to licensing. TariffPilot checks goods against the relevant dual-use lists.
Embargo: An embargo is a trade restriction imposed by a state or internationally against certain countries, persons, or goods. It can prohibit exports in whole or in part. TariffPilot flags embargo-related risks during the goods check.
Export Control: Export control is the state supervision of the export of certain goods, in particular dual-use and military goods. It decides whether an export requires a license or is prohibited. TariffPilot automatically checks goods against the relevant lists.
Export License: An export license is the official permission to export a good subject to licensing. Without it, the export of such goods is not permitted. TariffPilot helps identify whether a good is subject to licensing.
German Export List: The German Export List is the national list of goods subject to licensing, including military goods and nationally listed dual-use goods. It complements the EU rules. TariffPilot takes listed goods into account during the export control check.
Military Goods: Military goods are goods specifically designed or intended for military purposes. Their export is subject to strict controls and regularly requires a license. TariffPilot checks goods against the military goods list.

Ready to give TariffPilot a try?

Classify your goods with AI. Start your free 14-day trial.