How to Find Your HS Code for US Imports: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Resources
If you are sourcing products internationally, your HS code (Harmonized System code) is one of the most important piece of data for your supply chain. It dictates your tariff rates, determines your eligibility for trade programs, and ensures your goods clear U.S. Customs without costly delays.
Your HS code is the foundation of your entire tariff calculation. If you’re new to how US import tariffs work, start with our [Complete Guide to US Import Tariffs]
Looking up an HS code is more than just a simple search. In 2026, classification has become the foundation of your financial planning. Getting this number wrong doesn’t just mean a delay; it means miscalculating your entire tax liability.
What is an HS Code?
An HS code is a standardized numerical method of classifying traded products. While the first six digits are consistent globally, the United States uses a 10-digit system known as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
- HS Code (First 6 digits): Universal across all countries.
- HTS Code (10 digits): Specific to U.S. imports and used to calculate duties.
How to Lookup Your HS Code
1. Use the Official HTS Search Tool
The most reliable way to find your code is through the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) HTS Search. Avoid third-party websites that may use outdated databases.
- Pro Tip: Start with broad terms. If you are importing “electric stainless steel kettles,” search for “kettle” first to find the correct chapter, then narrow down by material and power source.
- Zero In: Click on the “Stat Suffix” to bring up product rulings related to that code. You can read through them to determine if your product matches any that customs has previously ruled on.
- Material Composition: Is it plastic, wood, or steel?
- Function: What is the primary purpose of the item?
- Form: Is it a finished good or a component part?
Once you have your HTS code, you must layer in the specific trade actions currently active in 2026. Your code will determine if you are subject to:
- Section 122 Surcharge: The current 10% global import surcharge.
- Section 301 Tariffs: Ongoing duties specifically targeting goods from China.
- Section 232 Duties: High-percentage tariffs (often 25% or 50%) on specific materials like steel, aluminum, and copper.
Once you have your HS code, use our Free Landed Cost Calculator to see how these tariffs impact your final price.
Common HS Code Mistakes to Avoid
Misclassification can lead to fines and delays if customs inspects your shipment. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Relying Solely on the Supplier: Your manufacturer may suggest a code, but as the “Importer of Record,” you are legally responsible for its accuracy.
- Using Export Codes for Imports: Many beginners confuse Schedule B numbers (used for exports) with HTS codes (used for imports). They are not always interchangeable.
- Ignoring Chapter Notes: Every chapter in the tariff schedule has “Legal Notes” that can change how a product is classified. Skipping these is a frequent cause of errors.
How to Find "Legal Notes" in the Tariff Schedule
To ensure your classification is legally sound, you must check the Legal Notes at the start of each chapter. Here is how to find them on the official USITC site:
- The PDF Method: Go to the HTS Table of Contents and download the PDF for your specific chapter. The first few pages are the binding Legal Notes.
The Search Tool Method: When viewing a specific code in the interactive search results, click the blue “Section Notes” or “Chapter Notes” link at the top of the table.
Understanding the 2026 Tariff Landscape
Properly identifying your HS code is only the first step. In 2026, your code determines your exposure to:
- Section 122 Surcharge: The current 10% global import surcharge.
- Section 301 Tariffs: Duties on goods originating from China.
- Section 232 Duties: Specific tariffs on steel, aluminum, and other raw materials.
Why Classification Accuracy Matters
With U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) increasing scrutiny on shipments and enforcing new regulations, an incorrect HS code is a red flag. Proper classification ensures you aren’t overpaying on duties, or worse: underpaying and exposing your business to fines or worse down the road.
Related Resources
This post is part of our [US Import Tariffs: A Complete Guide] series, which walks through the entire process of classifying product HTS codes and calculating landed costs from start to finish.
Need help with your import strategy?
Finding the right HS code is a critical step to pricing out your supply chain. If you need assistance navigating the trade landscape, our team is here to help.
