GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026
Application of Tariff Codes
At the time of customs clearance, every product must be assigned a tariff code—a numerical classification under the Harmonized System (HS) administered by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
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Source: https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/nomenclature/overview/what-is-the-harmonized-system.aspx
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Definition & Explanation
At the time of customs clearance, every product must be assigned a tariff code—a numerical classification under the Harmonized System (HS) administered by the World Customs Organization (WCO). The first six digits are uniform worldwide; many countries extend the code to eight or ten digits to reflect national duty rates, import restrictions, and specific control requirements. The importer or customs broker bears responsibility for correct classification: misclassification can trigger additional duty assessments, penalties, and in serious cases seizure of the goods. Customs authorities may review and override classifications at any point. Beyond duty calculation, tariff codes also underpin anti-dumping measures, rules of origin determinations, and preferential duty rates.
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