HS Code (Harmonized System Code)

The HS Code is the internationally standardized product number that every US import must be classified under before duty can be calculated. It is a 6-digit code maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by more than 200 countries, organized into 21 sections and roughly 97 chapters covering about 5,000 commodity groups. For example, 6109.10 is the worldwide 6-digit code for cotton T-shirts — the first two digits (61) are the chapter (knitted apparel), the next two (09) the heading, and the final two (10) the subheading. It matters because the HS Code is the root of your US classification: it determines the base duty rate, whether Section 232 or Section 301 surtaxes attach, and it is the single field CBP scrutinizes most in an audit — a wrong code can double or triple a bill or expose you to penalties.