Sourcing glossary
HS code
Also known as: Harmonized System code, HTS code, commodity code, tariff code
A product classification number from the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System; the first six digits are shared internationally and countries add their own digits to set duty rates.
Customs authorities use the HS code to decide the import duty, trade measures and statistics for a shipment. The first six digits are the same in more than 200 countries and economies that use the system; after that, each market adds national digits, such as the 10-digit HTS number in the US, the 8-digit CN and 10-digit TARIC codes in the EU, and the 10-digit import commodity code in the UK.
The code on a Chinese supplier's invoice is chosen for the Chinese export declaration. As the importer, you are responsible for the code you declare, so check it against your own country's tariff. See How to find the right HS code.
Related terms
Guides that use this term
Compliance
CE, UKCA, FCC and CPC: Product Certifications for Imports from China
What CE, UKCA, FCC and the US Children's Product Certificate mean, which products need them, who is responsible, and how to check a supplier's certificate.
Updated 2026-09-22 · 7 min read
Shipping
Shipping from China to Amazon FBA: Rules, Options and Pitfalls
How to ship inventory from China into Amazon FBA in the US: carton and pallet limits, labels, importer of record, DDP forwarders, AGL and prep centers.
Updated 2026-09-20 · 6 min read
Compliance
How to Calculate Landed Cost When Importing from China
A step-by-step landed cost formula for China imports: product cost, freight, insurance, duty, VAT, fees and delivery, with why US and EU/UK duty bases differ.
Updated 2026-09-17 · 6 min read
Compliance
How to Find the Right HS Code for Products Imported from China
How HS codes work, how to classify a product step by step with official tariff tools in the US, EU and UK, and why your supplier's code may be wrong.
Updated 2026-09-08 · 7 min read
Part of Tariffs & Compliance.