Have you ever wondered how customs officials around the world can instantly identify and process millions of different products crossing borders every day? The secret lies in a universal language of numbers called commodity codes.

Think of commodity codes as the universal language of international trade – they help ensure that a smartphone shipped from China is classified the same way whether it arrives in New York, London, or Sydney. But how exactly do these codes work, and when do you need to use them? AI HS Code Finder will help you find the most accurate HS code for your product. Then you can easily find your commodity number.

What Is a Commodity Number?

Think of commodity codes as the “postal codes” of international trade. Just like your address helps mail reach your home, commodity codes help customs officials identify exactly what products are crossing their borders.

A commodity code is a numerical classification system used to identify specific products or goods for customs and international trade purposes. These codes are sequences of numbers that classify products for import and export, making it possible for countries to communicate about trade efficiently, regardless of language barriers. If so, what is an intrastat code?
You might also hear commodity codes referred to by these names:

• Classification codes
• Tariff codes
• Customs tariff numbers
• HS codes (Harmonized System codes)

The beauty of this system is that it creates a standardized way to categorize goods based on their type, use, and material. This means a leather handbag has the same basic classification whether it’s being shipped from Italy to Japan or from Brazil to Canada.

Discover more: What Does Customs Clearance Mean?

What Is a Commodity Code for Shipping?

At the heart of all commodity codes lies the Harmonized System (HS), a universal six-digit classification managed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). Think of it as the common foundation that all countries build upon.
Here’s how the six-digit structure works:

Digit Position	What It Represents	Example (Apples: 080810)
First 2 digits	Chapter	08 = Edible fruits and nuts
Next 2 digits	Heading within chapter	08 = Specific fruit category
Final 2 digits	Sub-heading	10 = Fresh apples

While the first six digits are universal, countries often need more precision. That’s where extended commodity codes come in. Different regions add extra digits to create more specific classifications for their tariff policies.

Trade Direction	Code Length	System Used	Purpose
Export	8 digits	Combined Nomenclature (CN)	Specific export measures
Import	10 digits	TARIC system	Specific import measures
Special cases	+4 digits	TARIC Additional Code	Extra classification needs

Some countries extend their codes even further – up to 14 digits! This allows for incredibly specific product classification and targeted trade policies.

Real-World Examples of Commodity Codes

Let’s look at some practical examples to see how this system works in action:

Example 1: Leather Handbags

• HS Code: 420211
• Chapter 42: Articles of leather, travel goods, handbags
• Heading 02: Trunks, suitcases, handbags and similar containers
• Sub-heading 21: With outer surface of leather

UK Extended Codes:

• Handmade leather handbags: 4202210010
• All other leather handbags: 4202210090

Example 2: Women’s Knitted Cotton Jumper

• Import code: 6106100000 (10 digits)
• Export code: 61061000 (8 digits)
• Section 11: Textiles and textile articles
• Chapter 61: Knitted or crocheted apparel
• Further classification: Women’s cotton blouses/shirts

Example 3: Snack Mix (Freeze-dried Fruit)

The classification process considers:

• 02: Preparations of vegetables, fruit, nuts
• 08: Fruit preparations
• 97: Mixtures

Can you see the pattern? Each level gets more specific, helping customs officials understand exactly what they’re dealing with.

What Commodity Code Should I Use?

Here’s where many traders feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry – finding the right code is manageable if you follow a systematic approach.

Step 1: Gather Detailed Product Information

Before you start searching, you need to know your product inside and out:

• What is it? Main purpose, functionality, and use
• What’s it made of? Complete breakdown of materials
• Technical specifications
• How is it packaged?
• Is it assembled or unfinished?
• Manufacturing process details

Have you ever tried to describe a product to someone over the phone? It’s similar – the more details you have, the easier it becomes to classify accurately.

Step 2: Use Official Online Databases

Region	Recommended Resource	Website Focus
Ireland/EU	European Commission TARIC	EU-specific classifications
Northern Ireland	GOV.UK Online Tariff	UK trade tariff database
General	National customs websites	Country-specific lookups

These official databases allow you to search by product keywords and match your item with provided specifications. Remember, while the first six digits are universal, extended classifications can vary by country.

Step 3: Get Professional Help When Needed

Sometimes self-assessment isn’t enough. When should you seek help?

• Complex products with multiple materials or functions
• High-value shipments where mistakes are costly
• Products that could fit multiple categories
• When you’re unsure about technical specifications

Contact Points:

• Ireland: [email protected]
• Northern Ireland: [email protected]

Step 4: Consider a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) Ruling

Think of a BTI ruling as getting an official stamp of approval on your classification. While not legally required, it provides:

• Legal certainty for three years
• Clear determination of duties and restrictions
• Peace of mind for regular shipments

The ruling itself is free, though you might incur costs for laboratory analysis or expert advice.

Step 5: Leverage Technology

Modern AI-powered tools and software can help streamline the classification process. AI HS-code lookup tool will help you find the most accurate HS code for your product.

What Is A Commodity Code Used for?

Understanding when to use commodity codes can save you time, money, and potential legal headaches. Here are the key situations where these codes become essential:

1- Completing Customs Declarations and Paperwork

Every time goods cross international borders, you must include the correct commodity code on customs declarations. This isn’t optional – it’s a legal requirement. The codes must appear on:

• Customs declarations
• Commercial invoices
• Bills of lading
• Import and export documentation

2- Shipping Goods Across Borders

Whether you’re importing products for your business or serving customers internationally, commodity codes are your ticket to smooth customs clearance. They help customs officials quickly identify what’s in your shipment without having to physically inspect every package.

3- Determining Customs Duties, Taxes, and Regulations

Here’s where commodity codes directly impact your wallet. Customs authorities use these codes to determine:

• Appropriate tariffs and taxes
• VAT obligations
• Specific duties and fees
• Real-time tax calculations

The right classification could mean the difference between paying 5% or 25% duty on your goods. That’s why accuracy matters so much.

Identifying Restrictions and Prohibitions

Not all products can be freely traded between countries. Commodity codes help identify:
• Regulated products requiring special licenses
• Banned or prohibited items
• Products subject to trade restrictions
• Items covered by international agreements

5. Import vs. Export Requirements

The complexity of commodity codes varies depending on whether you’re importing or exporting:

For Exports (UK/EU):

• Typically use 8-digit commodity codes
• Add two extra digits to the 6-digit HS code
• Focus on specific export measures

For Imports (UK/EU):

• Typically use 10-digit commodity codes
• May extend to 14 digits in some cases
• Include TARIC (Integrated Tariff) specifications
• Required for TARIC import declarations

Which Countries Use Commodity Codes?

The beauty of commodity codes lies in their near-universal adoption, but with interesting regional variations that reflect local trade policies and requirements.

The Universal Foundation: HS Codes

The Harmonized System forms the backbone of global trade classification. Here’s what makes it special:

• Used by over 200 countries and economies
• Covers more than 98% of international trade
• Governed by the World Customs Organization (WCO)
• Provides standardized 6-digit base codes

This means that whether you’re trading with Japan, Brazil, or Germany, the first six digits of your commodity code will be understood everywhere.

Country-Specific Extensions

While the first six digits are universal, countries add their own digits to address specific needs:

Region	Export Code Length	Import Code Length	Special Features
EU/UK	8 digits	10-14 digits	Combined Nomenclature (CN)
United States	10 digits	10 digits	Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)
Canada	8-10 digits	8-10 digits	Canadian Tariff Schedule

The European system provides an excellent example of how countries customize the universal HS framework:

Combined Nomenclature (CN) – 8 Digits:

• Used for exports from EU/UK
• Adds two digits to the 6-digit HS code
• Enables specific export measures
• Required for Intrastat declarations between EU member states

TARIC System – 10+ Digits:

• Used for imports into EU/UK
• Can extend up to 14 digits
• Includes additional 4-digit TARIC codes when needed
• Provides detailed import-specific classifications

Regional Tools and Resources:

• Ireland: Uses European Commission TARIC Consultation site
• Northern Ireland: Uses GOV.UK Northern Ireland Online Tariff service
• UK: HMRC commodity code system with UK-specific VAT and licensing data

FAQ

1. What’s the difference between HS codes and commodity codes?
   HS codes are the universal 6-digit foundation used worldwide, while commodity codes are country-specific extensions that can be 8, 10, or even 14 digits long. The first 6 digits of any commodity code are always the HS code, but countries add extra digits for their own tariff and regulatory purposes.
2. Can I just use the commodity code my supplier gave me?
   No, never trust a supplier’s code without verification. The commodity code that works for them in their country may not be correct for your import destination. Always check the code against your destination country’s tariff database, as classifications can differ between countries.
3. What happens if I use the wrong commodity code?
   Using wrong codes can cause serious problems: customs delays, storage fees, fines, penalties, goods being seized, overpaying or underpaying duties, and even accusations of fraud if authorities think you deliberately used wrong codes to avoid taxes.
4. How many digits do I need for UK imports vs exports?
   For UK imports, you need the full 10-digit commodity code. For exports, you only need 8 digits. This is because imports require more detailed classification for duty and VAT calculations.
5. Are HS codes the same in every country?
   Only the first 6 digits (the HS code) are standardized worldwide. Countries then add 2-4 more digits for their specific needs, so a product might have different full commodity codes in different countries, even though the HS foundation is the same.
6. I can’t find my product in the tariff database – what do I do?
   Try searching by material composition (what it’s made from), intended use, or similar products. If you’re still stuck, contact HMRC’s Tariff Classification Service for informal advice (responds in 3-5 days) or request a formal Advance Tariff Ruling for legally binding guidance.
7. My product is made of multiple materials – how do I classify it?
   Generally, classify based on the material with the highest percentage. For example, a shirt that’s 60% cotton and 40% polyester would be classified as cotton. However, there are specific rules for composite goods and sets that may apply.
8. Do I need different codes for the same product going to different countries?
   Yes, potentially. While the 6-digit HS code stays the same globally, the extended commodity code can vary by destination country. The UK code for importing might differ from the EU code for the same product.
9. How often do commodity codes change?
   HS codes are updated by the World Customs Organization around December/January each year. Countries then update their extended commodity codes accordingly. Always check for updates, especially at the start of the year.
10. What’s the difference between TARIC, CN, and HTS codes?
    These are all country-specific extensions of HS codes: CN codes are 8-digit EU export codes, TARIC codes are 10-digit EU import codes, and HTS codes are 10-digit US import codes. They all start with the same 6-digit HS code.
11. Can I get a legally binding ruling on my commodity code?
    Yes, you can request Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from customs authorities. This gives you a written, legally binding ruling that’s valid for 3 years throughout the EU. It’s worth doing for high-value or regularly imported items.
12. Who is legally responsible for using the correct commodity code?
    The importer of record (whose name is on the import documentation) is legally responsible, regardless of what advisers, suppliers, or freight forwarders recommend. You can get advice, but the final responsibility is yours.
13. My commodity code search returns thousands of results – how do I narrow it down?
    Follow the 6 general classification rules in mandatory sequence, starting with rule 1. Look for your product’s exact description under the appropriate heading (first 4 digits), then work through the subheadings to find the most specific match.
14. Can I use a customs broker to handle commodity codes for me?
    Yes, customs brokers and freight forwarders can help classify your goods and prepare declarations. However, you remain legally responsible for the accuracy of the codes, and they can only make recommendations.
15. What if my product doesn’t fit any standard category?
    Complex or unusual items like electronics or textiles may require industry-specific guidance. Use the Customs Rulings Online Search System (CROSS) to find past rulings on similar products, or contact customs directly for guidance.
16. How detailed do commodity codes get?
    Very detailed. For example, playing cards have the specific code 9504.40.00 00 in the US. Some codes even specify things like the sugar content in beverages using additional 4-digit codes for quota management.
17. Is there a difference between import and export commodity codes for the same product?
    In the US, imports use HTS codes while exports use Schedule B numbers. Both start with the same 6-digit HS code, but the additional digits may differ. Always check both if you’re importing and exporting the same product.
18. Can I appeal if customs disagrees with my commodity code?
    If you paid incorrect duties due to code disputes, you can apply for refunds up to 3 years after import if you overpaid, or customs can claim additional duties up to 3 years after if you underpaid. Getting BTI rulings upfront helps avoid disputes.
19. Should I memorize commodity codes for my regular products?
    Not practical – countries like Canada have over 16,000 different tariff numbers, each 10 digits long. Instead, maintain a database of your commonly used codes and verify them annually when codes are updated.
20. What’s the most common mistake people make with commodity codes?
    The biggest mistake is trusting codes from suppliers or other countries without verification. Many companies chose “whatever felt right” without proper guidance, leading to wrong classifications. Always verify codes against your destination country’s tariff database.