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Customs Classification

What is an HTS Code?

An HTS code (Harmonized Tariff Schedule code) is a 10-digit number that classifies every product imported into the United States for customs purposes. It determines the duty rate, eligibility for trade agreements, and import restrictions.

HTS Code (US imports)

  • • 10 digits total
  • • Used for importing into the US
  • • Maintained by USITC
  • • First 6 digits = international HS code
  • • Digits 7–10 = US duty rate + statistical suffix

HS Code (global standard)

  • • 6 digits (minimum)
  • • Used by 200+ countries
  • • Maintained by World Customs Organization (WCO)
  • • Universal — same first 6 digits everywhere
  • • Countries add digits for local specificity

How to read a 10-digit HTS code

Using HTS code 6109.10.10.20 (cotton T-shirts, men's or boys') as an example:

6109101020
Ch.Hdg.Sub.US rateStat.

First 2 digits

61

Chapter — broad product category (e.g., Chapter 61: Knitted or crocheted clothing)

Digits 3–4

6109

Heading — more specific grouping (e.g., 6109: T-shirts, singlets, other vests)

Digits 5–6

610910

Subheading — international HS code level (e.g., of cotton)

Digits 7–8

61091010

US tariff rate line — specific duty rate in the USITC HTS schedule

Digits 9–10

6109101020

Statistical suffix — for US trade data collection; not used for duty calculation

Why HTS codes matter for importers

Duty rate determination

The HTS code directly determines what percentage duty you pay. Misclassifying by one heading can mean paying 0% vs. 37.5% — a $375 error on every $1,000 of goods.

Trade agreement eligibility

Free Trade Agreements (FTA) grant zero or reduced duty rates, but only for specific HTS codes. Using the wrong code means you miss savings you're legally entitled to.

Import restrictions & licensing

Certain HTS codes trigger anti-dumping duties, Section 301 tariffs, licensing requirements, or outright import prohibitions. Classification determines your compliance obligations.

How to find your HTS code

01

AI-powered lookup (fastest)

Describe your product in plain English to an AI classifier. Zentria's lookup tool identifies the most likely HTS code from your product description, material, and use case — with confidence scoring and alternative classifications.

02

USITC HTS Search (official)

The USITC publishes the complete Harmonized Tariff Schedule at hts.usitc.gov. You can search by keyword or browse chapter by chapter. This is the authoritative source but requires knowledge of customs classification principles.

03

CBP Binding Ruling (most reliable)

For high-value or recurring imports, request a binding ruling from CBP. Once issued, the ruling is legally binding on CBP — they cannot assess additional duties based on a different classification as long as you follow the ruling. Takes 30–60 days and is free.

HTS code FAQ

What is an HTS code?

An HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code is a 10-digit import classification code used by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to identify goods entering the United States. The first 6 digits are internationally standardized (the HS code), while digits 7–10 are US-specific and determine the exact duty rate and statistical category. Every product imported into the US must be declared with an HTS code.

What is the difference between an HTS code and an HS code?

An HS code (Harmonized System code) is a 6-digit international standard maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by 200+ countries. An HTS code is the US extension of the HS code — it adds 4 more digits (for a total of 10) to specify the exact duty rate and gather trade statistics. The first 6 digits of an HTS code are identical to the corresponding HS code.

How do I find the HTS code for my product?

You can search the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule at hts.usitc.gov, consult a licensed customs broker, or use an AI-powered HS code lookup tool like Zentria Flow. For complex or high-value products, always get a binding ruling from CBP to ensure classification accuracy and protect against penalties.

What happens if I use the wrong HTS code?

Using an incorrect HTS code can result in: underpayment of duties (leading to back-duties, interest, and penalties up to 4x the duty amount), overpayment of duties (money left on the table), seizure of goods by CBP, and in cases of intentional misclassification, criminal fraud charges. Accurate classification is legally required.

Do HTS codes change?

Yes. The World Customs Organization updates the HS nomenclature every 5 years (the last update was HS 2022). The USITC also makes annual updates to the US-specific digits. Always verify that the HTS code you're using corresponds to the current schedule year — especially for multi-year supply chain planning.

Is an HTS code the same as a Schedule B number?

No. HTS codes are for imports; Schedule B numbers are for exports. Schedule B numbers are maintained by the US Census Bureau and are used when filing Electronic Export Information (EEI). The first 6 digits of an HTS code and its corresponding Schedule B number are typically identical (both based on the HS), but the last 4 digits may differ.

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