HS code

HS code is the shorten form of Harmonized System code. It is a global customs classification system that helps customs worldwide classify shipments, regulate shipments entry, and determine taxation.  
 
Shippers use it to declare their international shipments and check customs duties. 

HS code has 6 digits. Additional digits are added by countries for sub-classification of products.  
 
Hence, HS code for certain countries is longer than 6 digits. 

While most countries call it the HS code, some use slightly different names. For instance: 

• In Malaysia, it's known as HS code or tariff code and consist of 8 digits. 

• The United States refers to it as HTS code (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) and consist of 10 digits. 

• India uses terms like HS code, HSN code (Harmonized System of Nomenclature), or ITC-HS Code (Indian Trade Clarification based on Harmonized System of Coding) and consist of 8 digits. 

The 6 digits HS code classify all the products into chapters, heading and sub-heading. It consists of 21 chapters and each chapter further classified into heading and then into subheadings. 
 
The first 2 digits are for chapter, the middle 2 digits are for heading and last 2 digits are for sub-heading.

Countries may extend it to 7 to 12 digits, known as commodity codes or national tariff lines to suit their specific needs.

You can use our HS code finder, known as MYGTS to search for your product’s tariff code in the exporting and importing country. 

Each country has its own HS code. You should always refer the HS code of your recipient’s country. 

Follow these 5 steps to find your HS code instantly:

1. Sign up or login to MyGTS.

2. Select exporting country and importing country of your shipment.

3. Click “Find My Product’s Tariff Code”.

4. Select “Search with Keywords”

5. Enter keywords of your product. 

*Be as accurate and specific as you can. Example: Search liptstick, not makeup product.

DHL MYGTS HS Code Finder

Customs relies on this code for accurately classifying shipments, controlling goods entry, and precise taxation. 

As a shipper, you need the HS code to declare shipment, check shipment restrictions, and calculate shipment duties.

Your shipments could face 5 common issues:

1. Shipment delays due to detention or inspection.

2. Fine, penalties and confiscation.

3. Incorrect customs duty charge.

4. Denial of entry.

5. Rejection of tax exemption request in free-trade agreement or De Minimis.

DHL refers to the HS code shipper provides on invoice. 

If the HS code is missing, customs will classify the product based on the customs regulations of the country, and DHL will follow customs' final decision.