What is HS Codes:

The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as HS Codes, HTS Codes, or Tariff Numbers, is a 6 to 14-digit code developed, and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and used by customs authorities to idetify a product and evaluate the duty owed.

Breakdown of an HS Code:

• Chapter: the first two digits

• Heading: the second two digits

• Subheading: the third two digits

Example: 6103.10

• 61 = articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted

• 6103 = Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, separate waistcoats, tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear)

• 6103.10 = Men's or boys' suits of textile materials, knitted or crocheted (excl. tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear)

The more digits added, the more precise it gets.

Benefits of using a complete and accurate HS Codes:

• Accurate product declaration: It helps customs authorities determine the contents of your shipment. Specifying an HS code allows any specific clearance process or restriction to be swiftly determined, saving time during customs clearance.

• Effect on duty rate: Duty is calculated based on the product's country of origin, the shipment's destination, the HS code used, and local regulations. The more accurate the HS code, the more precise the duty rate.

How do I get one:

You can get one on the Indonesia National Trade Repository (INTR) website: https://insw.go.id/intr which also will allow you to check whether your goods can be exported from Indonesia or not. You can also check on the destination country's customs website (e.g.: https://hts.usitc.gov/ for the US (United States), or you can use an online HS Code lookup tool such as Zonos Classify to automate your HS code classifications.

Say you’re shipping "Women’s Blouse made of 100% Cotton, knitted or crocheted" to the US (United States) – the HS / HTS code will be as follows:

Heading: Articles Of Apparel And Clothing Accessories, Knitted Or Crocheted (61)

Subheading: Women's or girls' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, dresses, skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts, knitted or crocheted (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, slips, petticoats and panties, tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear) (11)

Material: of Cotton (22)

Type: Blouses, shirts and tops (60)

The HS / HTS code: 6104.22.0060

With this code, customs authorities will be able to identify the contents of your package without needing to open your package for physical checking - which will cause clearance delays.