The terms HS code and HTS code are often used as if they mean the same thing. They are related, but the distinction is important: the Harmonized System provides the international six-digit foundation, while national tariff schedules add digits and legal detail for a particular customs territory.
Start with the international HS foundation
The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System is maintained by the World Customs Organization. Its headings and subheadings create a common six-digit classification foundation used by customs administrations around the world.
The first two digits identify the chapter, the next two the heading and the next two the HS subheading. This shared structure supports trade statistics and international consistency, but six digits alone may not be enough for an import declaration.
Understand the United States HTS
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, or HTSUS, extends the international HS structure for US import classification, duty rates and statistical reporting. The United States International Trade Commission publishes the schedule, while US Customs and Border Protection administers and interprets it for imports.
An HTS number therefore includes the six-digit HS foundation plus additional US digits. A code used for export reporting may also differ from the full import classification, so the purpose and direction of the movement matter.
Do not copy a foreign national code blindly
The first six digits are designed to be internationally harmonised, but national extensions beyond that point can differ. A ten-digit code supplied by a US customer is not automatically valid for import into the European Union, Switzerland or another jurisdiction.
Verify the destination tariff schedule, current nomenclature and legal notes. The importer is usually responsible for the import declaration, but exporters should maintain defensible product facts and avoid transmitting unsupported classifications.
Classify from facts, not from code databases alone
Collect the product's function, materials, construction, operating principle and presentation. Apply heading wording, section and chapter notes and the General Rules for Interpretation before selecting the national extension. Record the rationale, evidence, source schedule and review date.
Quick control
Mini-checklist
- Identify whether the code is for export, import or reference
- Verify the international six-digit HS basis
- Use the destination country's current national tariff schedule
- Document product facts and classification reasoning
- Record jurisdiction, source, date and review trigger
Frequently asked questions
What professionals ask
Are HS and HTS codes the same?
Not exactly. HS refers to the international six-digit classification foundation. HTS commonly refers to a national harmonised tariff schedule—especially the US HTS—which adds digits for national duty and statistical purposes.
How many digits are in an HS code?
The internationally harmonised HS subheading has six digits. Countries and customs territories commonly add further digits in their national tariff schedules.
Can I use a US HTS code in another country?
Do not assume the full US code is valid elsewhere. The first six digits may align internationally, but the importing country applies its own national extensions, notes and measures.
Authoritative references
Further reading
This guide provides general operational information and does not constitute legal, customs, tax or regulatory advice. Requirements vary by transaction and jurisdiction; obtain specialist advice where appropriate.