Customs Classification
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.
Also known as: Harmonized System, HS nomenclature, Harmonisiertes System
How is the HS code structured?
The HS code has six digits and is identical worldwide. It is organized hierarchically:
- the first 2 digits indicate the chapter
- digits 3 and 4 the heading
- digits 5 and 6 the subheading
National and regional nomenclatures such as the Combined Nomenclature build on these six digits.
Who maintains the Harmonized System?
The Harmonized System is issued by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and revised at regular intervals. Well-known versions include HS 2017 and HS 2022. Member states adopt the six-digit structure unchanged and extend it nationally.
HS code, CN, and customs tariff number: how do they relate?
The HS code forms the first six digits. The EU extends it to eight digits in the Combined Nomenclature; for imports, TARIC and national keys produce the eleven-digit customs tariff number.
The HS code at TariffPilot
TariffPilot determines the matching HS code as the starting point of every classification and continues from there to the full code number. Every suggestion is justified and traceably documented in the PilotMemo.