What are HS and HTS codes?

An HS code is a 6-digit international identifier that tells customs exactly what's in your parcel. Without the right code, your shipment can be held, returned, or fined, regardless of the carrier you use. This guide explains how HS and HTS codes work, which countries require the 10-digit version, and how to automate the process so you never face a customs block again.

One Wrong Word or Missing Code: The Consequences

Imagine you’re selling loose organic tea, and your US customer is waiting for their parcel… but it gets held up at customs. Why? The vague product description “green tea in sachets” isn’t enough it needs a precise 10-digit HTS code.

Same issue for a clothing store: “cotton shirt” is too generic. At customs, “men’s woven cotton shirt” and “women’s knitted polyester shirt” fall under different tariffs and regulations. That’s where HS/HTS codes make the distinction.

💡 Did you know? Nearly 20% of shipments are submitted with incorrect tariff codes, leading to delays, fines, and unexpected costs for e-commerce businesses.

What Is an HS Code, and Why It’s Essential for E-Commerce

The HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is a 6-digit international customs code used to classify goods consistently worldwide. It’s defined by the World Customs Organization.

This code determines:

  • The applicable customs duties
  • Import/export regulations per country
  • Customs processing (fast or delayed)
  • VAT or applicable taxes

In short: wrong code = delays, blockages, and fines.

2025: What’s Changing for US Exports

The United States now requires the 10-digit HTS code (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) for all commercial shipments.

Who’s affected?

All carriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS, etc.) and marketplaces (Amazon, Etsy, Shopify...).

Why?

To improve classification accuracy, strengthen automated controls, and reduce fraud.

What happens if you don’t comply?

⛔ Parcels blocked or returned

⛔ Major delays

⛔ Unexpected taxes or fines

And more importantly: some carriers won’t even let you generate a shipping label without the full HTS code.

Product Examples and Their HTS Codes (UK English – 2025)

  • Green Tea, loose Description : Green tea, not fermented, in bulk HTS Code : 0902.20.90.15
  • Men's cotton shirt Description : Woven men's shirt of cotton HTS Code : 6205.20.20.26
  • Women's polyester blouse Description : Knitted women's blouse, synthetic fibre HTS Code : 6106.20.20.10
  • Bluetooth headphones Description : Wireless headphones with Bluetooth HTS Code : 8518.30.20.00
  • Laptop bag (textile) Description : Textile outer surface, portable computer bag HTS Code : 4202.12.40.00

HS/HTS Codes Around the World

🇪🇺 Europe

Base: 6-digit HS code for almost all international trade

Combined Nomenclature (CN): 8-digit version for more precise classification (duties, health rules, stats, anti-dumping)

Examples:

Food & Beverages

  • Still wine: CN 2204.21.10
  • Green coffee: CN 0901.11.00

Textiles & Clothing

  • Leather jacket: CN 4203.10.00
  • Cotton t-shirt: CN 6109.10.00

Electronics & Machinery

  • Smartphone: CN 8517.12.00
  • Bicycle (non-motorised): CN 8712.00.00

Chemicals & Health

  • Nitrogen fertilisers: CN 3102.10.00
  • Paracetamol: CN 2933.29.90

And more: precious metals, cosmetics, printers…

For even more targeted measures (embargoes, licences, detailed stats), the EU uses TARIC, a 10-digit version.

🌏 Asia & Australia

6-digit HS base code. National extensions up to 8 or 10 digits depending on sector (chemicals, food, etc.)

Do You Need to Use 10-Digit Codes Everywhere?

No, it’s not necessary to always use the 10-digit HTS code for all international shipments this is specifically required for the United States. However, some countries do require more detailed sub-codes, like the 8-digit CN codes in Europe, or other variants depending on the product type.

Adapt your product information based on each market’s specific requirements to avoid customs errors and ensure smooth, fast shipping.

How to Find the Correct HS / HTS Code?

✅ Official search engines:

  • hts.usitc.gov (HTS USA)
  • tariffnumber.com (International HS)

✅ Ask your suppliers

Many already have the correct codes. Request them or check for consistency.

✅ Use ParcelRush to automate everything

ParcelRush can:

  • Automatically link your products with accurate HS/HTS codes
  • Generate labels compliant with US and other customs standards
  • Minimise errors and speed up customs clearance

In short: everything is centralised, automated, and secure.

How ParcelRush generates HS codes automatically

Most platforms leave HS code entry entirely to the merchant. ParcelRush uses AI to automatically suggest the right code when you create a shipment, based on your product description.

The result: fewer errors, fewer customs blocks, and smoother clearance, without needing to know customs nomenclature yourself.