HS Code Lookup Guide
An HS code (Harmonized System code) is the 6-digit international number used by customs authorities worldwide to classify traded goods. The US extends it to 10 digits (the HTS code) to set specific duty rates. Finding the right code is the first step in calculating your import duty.
TL;DR: Use Zentria Flow's free AI tool — type your product description or upload a photo. Results in 5 seconds with duty rates for US, EU, and 70+ other countries. For formal entries, verify with a customs broker.
Free AI HS Code Finder
Describe your product or upload a photo — AI returns the HS code, duty rate, and Section 301 flag instantly.
HS Code vs HTS Code: What's the Difference?
HS Code (6 digits)
The international standard maintained by the World Customs Organization. Used by 200+ countries. The first 6 digits are identical worldwide.
International HS
6109.10
HTS Code (10 digits)
The US-specific extension of the HS code. The additional 4 digits break down duty rates and specific sub-categories unique to US customs law.
US HTS
6109.10.00.10
How to Read an HS Code
Example: 6109.10.00 (Cotton T-shirts)
Chapter: Knitted/crocheted apparel
Heading: T-shirts, singlets
Subheading: Of cotton
US HTS extension
3 Ways to Look Up an HS Code
AI product description (fastest)
RecommendedType a clear product description — material, use, and form. AI classifies it to 6-digit HS in under 5 seconds.
Vision AI from product photo
Upload a product image. AI Vision identifies the product and returns the HS code with confidence score.
USITC HTS Schedule (manual)
Download the official US HTS schedule from usitc.gov. Navigate the chapter hierarchy manually.
HS Code Chapter Overview
The Harmonized System has 21 sections and 97 chapters. Find your product's chapter to narrow down the code:
01–05
Live animals & animal products
06–14
Vegetable products
15
Fats and oils
16–24
Prepared foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco
25–27
Mineral products, fuels
28–38
Chemicals & allied industries
39–40
Plastics and rubber
41–43
Leather, furskins
44–46
Wood and articles of wood
47–49
Paper and paperboard
50–63
Textiles and apparel
64–67
Footwear, headgear
68–70
Stone, ceramics, glass
71
Precious metals, jewellery
72–83
Base metals
84–85
Machinery and electronics
86–89
Transport equipment
90–92
Optical, medical instruments
93
Arms and ammunition
94–96
Miscellaneous manufactured articles
97–99
Special classification provisions (US)
HS Code Examples with US Duty Rates
Tips for Accurate HS Code Classification
Be specific about material
Cotton, polyester, stainless steel, borosilicate glass — the material usually determines the chapter.
Describe the primary use
A bag designed to carry laptops (HTS 4202) is different from a bag designed for sports equipment (HTS 4202.92).
Check GRIs (General Rules of Interpretation)
When a product could fit multiple chapters, GRIs determine which applies. AI tools handle this automatically.
Watch for 'parts of' distinctions
A complete machine (HS 84–85) has a different code than its 'parts' (often HS 8473, 8529, etc.).
Get a Binding Tariff Ruling for high-value shipments
File CBP Form 484 or use cbp.gov CROSS database to get a legally binding HS classification for repeat shipments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are HS codes the same in all countries?
The first 6 digits are standardized across all 200+ WTO member countries. Beyond 6 digits, countries add their own national breakdown. The US uses 10 digits (HTS), the EU uses 8-10 digits (CN/TARIC), and the UK uses 10 digits post-Brexit.
What happens if I use the wrong HS code?
Using the wrong HS code can result in: paying too much or too little duty (the latter triggers penalties), delays at the port while CBP re-examines and reclassifies, formal penalties of up to 4× the unpaid duty for fraud, and deferred Customs Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) holds. Always verify classification for high-value recurring shipments.
Does the same product always have the same HS code?
Not always. The same physical product can have different HS codes depending on its intended use, primary constituent material, country of import, and whether it's classified as a complete product or a part/component. A motor sold separately may have a different code than the same motor shipped inside a machine.
How often do HS codes change?
The WCO updates the international HS schedule every 5 years (HS 2022 is the current edition; HS 2027 is the next). The US HTS is updated more frequently — sometimes weekly for rate changes, and annually for structural changes. Always check current rates before an import.
Related guides
Disclaimer: HS code classification results from AI tools are advisory only. Final classification decisions rest with customs authorities. For formal commercial entries, verify codes with a licensed customs broker or request a Binding Tariff Ruling from CBP.