What Is the Harmonized Tariff Schedule?
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) is a comprehensive list of duty rates for every product that can be imported into the US. It is maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) and updated periodically to reflect new trade agreements, product categories, and policy changes.
The HTS is based on the international Harmonized System (HS) — a 6-digit classification system developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by 200+ countries. The US adds 4 additional digits (making it 10 digits total) for more granular statistical and duty purposes.
Understanding the 10-Digit Code Structure
Every HTS code follows this hierarchy:
| Digits | Level | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | Chapter | 62 | Articles of apparel (not knitted) |
| 3–4 | Heading | 6201 | Men's overcoats, car coats, etc. |
| 5–6 | Subheading (HS) | 620111 | Men's overcoats of wool |
| 7–8 | US Tariff Item | 62011110 | Further specification |
| 9–10 | Statistical Suffix | 6201111010 | US-only statistical breakdown |
The first 6 digits are internationally standardized — a product classified as 6201.11 in the US has the same HS subheading in Europe, Japan, and China. The last 4 digits are US-specific.
How to Find Your Product's HTS Code
There are several methods to identify the correct HTS code:
1. Use TariffPeek Search
Our search tool lets you search by keyword or product description and returns matching HTS codes with their current duty rates.
2. Browse the USITC HTS Database
The USITC maintains the official HTS at hts.usitc.gov. You can navigate the chapter structure or search by keyword.
3. Check CBP's CROSS Rulings Database
CBP's CROSS (Customs Ruling Online Search System) contains thousands of formal classification rulings. If someone imported a similar product, there may already be a ruling. Rulings carry significant weight — if your product matches a ruling, following that classification is defensible.
4. Consult a Licensed Customs Broker
For complex or high-value shipments, a licensed customs broker can provide professional classification advice. Fees typically range from $75–$250 for a classification analysis.
Why Misclassification Is a Serious Violation
Using the wrong HTS code — whether intentionally or accidentally — is considered a customs violation under 19 U.S.C. § 1592. Penalties vary based on the level of culpability:
- Negligence: Up to 4x the unpaid duties (maximum 20% of the merchandise value)
- Gross negligence: Up to 4x unpaid duties (maximum 40% of merchandise value)
- Fraud: Up to the full domestic value of the merchandise
In addition, you may owe back duties plus interest, and repeated violations can trigger enhanced examination of future shipments.
Getting a Binding Ruling
If you regularly import a product and want certainty about its classification, you can request a binding ruling from CBP (Customs and Border Protection). The process:
- Submit a ruling request to CBP's National Commodity Specialist Division
- Provide a detailed product description, technical specs, intended use, and samples if possible
- CBP typically responds within 30 days
- The ruling binds CBP to that classification for your specific product
A binding ruling provides legal certainty and protection from retroactive duty assessments — a valuable tool for high-volume importers.
Summary
Correct HTS classification is the foundation of compliant importing. Take the time to research your product's code thoroughly, consult CBP's CROSS database, and consider a binding ruling for ongoing imports. Use TariffPeek to quickly look up HTS codes and current duty rates for any product.