GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Tariff number
A tariff number is a standardized numeric code used to classify goods in international trade, built on the Harmonized System (HS) maintained 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
A tariff number is a standardized numeric code used to classify goods in international trade, built on the Harmonized System (HS) maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO). The HS provides a six-digit foundation; customs territories extend this to eight, ten, or more digits as required – the EU applies the ten-digit Combined Nomenclature (CN). The tariff number determines which duty rates, taxes, and import or export controls apply to a given product. Freight forwarders and importers must declare it accurately on every customs entry; misclassification can trigger duty reclaims, penalty tariffs, or seizure of goods. It should not be confused with the TARIC code, which builds on the CN to incorporate additional EU-level measures such as anti-dumping duties.
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