# Customs coding procedure

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> Unlike a simple tariff lookup, a customs coding procedure is a structured, documented process for assigning commodity codes to individual products—HS codes at the international level, TARIC codes within the EU.

Unlike a simple tariff lookup, a customs coding procedure is a structured, documented process for assigning commodity codes to individual products—HS codes at the international level, TARIC codes within the EU. The correct heading depends on product description, constituent materials, manufacturing process, intended use, and country of origin; any one of these factors can shift the applicable subheading. Freight forwarders and customs brokers must apply the procedure systematically and keep records, since miscoding can lead to duty underpayments, penalty assessments, or clearance holds. Larger trading companies embed it in internal coding guidelines and pre-validate critical lines through binding tariff information (BTI). The coding procedure is distinct from the customs declaration itself: it is the upstream classification work that makes accurate filing possible.

**Source:** [https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp](https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs coding procedure |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 122 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp |

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