What an HS code is
The Harmonized System assigns every traded product a 6-digit code, extended by each country to 8–12 digits. The code determines your duty rate, required certificates, and whether the goods are restricted at all.
Anatomy of a code
Digits Level Example (LED lamps)
--- --- ---
First 2 Chapter 85 — electrical machinery
First 4 Heading 8539 — electric lamps
First 6 International subheading 8539.50 — LED lamps
8–12 National tariff line varies by country
What a wrong digit costs
:::chart Duty rate spread within one chapter (example rates)
Correct code | 5
Similar but wrong code | 12
Misdeclared + penalty | 25
:::
How to classify correctly
- Start from the product''s material and function, not its marketing name.
- Use the official tariff database of the destination country — rates differ.
- Ask your customs broker for a binding ruling on repeat products.
- Keep the supplier''s declared code as a reference only — the importer is legally responsible.
> Customs treats a wrong code as your error, not your supplier''s — even if you copied it from their invoice.
Search codes on Prebro
Prebro''s search index covers HS codes alongside products and categories, so you can find the code and the suppliers who already trade under it in one search.