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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Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

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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Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

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Tariff number

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