HS Code Classification API — Classify Products at Scale
Classify any product description to its HS code and 10-digit HTS code via REST API. 94%+ accuracy, confidence scoring, and optional duty rate enrichment — classify a 10,000-SKU catalog in minutes.
API Features
94%+ accuracy on first attempt
Trained on millions of CBP rulings, EU binding tariff information decisions, and WCO HS classification databases.
Confidence scoring
Every classification includes a 0–1 confidence score. Low-confidence results are flagged for human review before import filing.
6-digit and 10-digit output
Returns the 6-digit universal HS code plus the 10-digit HTS code for the US (or 8-digit CN code for the EU) based on the destination country.
Batch classification
Classify up to 1,000 product lines in a single API call. Ideal for catalog imports, supplier SKU classification, and ERP integrations.
Real-time tariff lookup
Optional tariff enrichment: the API can return the current duty rate, AD/CVD status, and any applicable Section 301 tariff alongside the HS code.
Binding ruling references
High-confidence classifications include references to CBP binding rulings or EU BTI decisions supporting the classification.
Sample Batch Classification
// Request
POST /v1/classify
{
"products": [
{
"id": "SKU-001",
"description": "Men's waterproof hiking boots, rubber sole, nylon upper",
"origin_country": "VN",
"destination_country": "US"
},
{
"id": "SKU-002",
"description": "USB-C charging cable, 2m, braided nylon, 60W",
"origin_country": "CN",
"destination_country": "US"
}
]
}
// Response
{
"results": [
{
"id": "SKU-001",
"hs_code": "640319",
"hts_code": "6403190090",
"description": "Footwear with rubber soles and textile uppers",
"duty_rate": 0.09,
"confidence": 0.96,
"notes": "Waterproof construction may qualify for 6401.92 — verify"
},
{
"id": "SKU-002",
"hs_code": "854430",
"hts_code": "8544300000",
"description": "Ignition wiring sets and other wiring sets",
"duty_rate": 0.00,
"section_301_rate": 0.075,
"confidence": 0.91
}
]
}Frequently Asked Questions
Why use an API for HS code classification instead of doing it manually?
Manual HS classification requires expertise in the 98-chapter Harmonized System and knowledge of each country's national tariff schedule. For a catalog of 500+ SKUs, manual classification takes days and introduces inconsistencies. An API can classify thousands of products in minutes with 94%+ accuracy, cross-referenced against CBP binding rulings and WCO classification databases. It also stays current as tariff schedules are updated — your team doesn't need to track changes.
Is the HS code classification legally binding?
No — API classifications are advisory, not legally binding. The only legally binding HS classification in the US is a CBP Binding Ruling (obtained by applying to CBP under 19 CFR Part 177). In the EU, a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) decision is binding. For high-value goods or complex classifications, you should obtain a binding ruling. For routine imports, the API's accuracy (94%+) provides a defensible position in case of CBP audit, especially when you document your classification methodology.
How does the AI classify products it hasn't seen before?
The classifier uses a fine-tuned large language model trained on the full WTO Harmonized System, CBP's online tariff database, EU Combined Nomenclature explanatory notes, and millions of historical CBP entry records. For novel products, it applies WTO General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) — the same rules human classifiers use — to determine the correct HS chapter, heading, and subheading. It returns a confidence score below 0.85 for uncertain classifications, flagging them for human review.
Can the API handle non-English product descriptions?
Yes. The API accepts product descriptions in English, Spanish, German, French, Chinese (Simplified), Turkish, and Portuguese. The underlying model was trained on multilingual customs data. For best accuracy, provide descriptions in English or include the product's technical specifications (materials, dimensions, function).
What's the difference between the HS code and the HTS code returned?
The HS code is the 6-digit universal code defined by the World Customs Organization — identical across all 200+ WTO member countries. The HTS code is the 10-digit US-specific code that extends the HS code with additional US subheadings. The EU uses an 8-digit Combined Nomenclature (CN) code. The API returns the destination-country-specific code based on the destination_country parameter in your request.
Related Resources
Start Classifying at Scale
Free tier includes 100 classifications/month. No credit card required.