Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to find the correct duty rates and product codes for goods being imported into the United States.
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is a standardized system used to classify every type of product imported into the country. This classification determines the specific tax rates applied to your goods.
Who it's for
This system is for any business that imports goods into the United States.
What you get
You gain access to the official duty rates and specific classification codes for every category of product. These codes, often called HTS Codes, ensure that your goods are taxed correctly at the border.
What it costs you
Searching the schedule is free. However, using it correctly requires deep technical knowledge, as misclassifying an item can lead to significant fines.
The catch to know
Many people struggle with the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs). These are the specific rules used to decide which code applies to a product, and misinterpreting them can lead to incorrect duty payments.
How to apply
- Visit the official online portal.
- Search for your specific product category.
- Identify the correct HTS Code and duty rate for your item.
- Use this information for your customs documentation.