Tariff Classification Guide
How to find the correct HTS code for your product — step by step.
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6 Steps to Classify Any Product
Identify what the product IS
Start with its function, material composition, and how it's used. Is it a finished product, a part, or a raw material? The HTS classifies by what something IS, not what it's used for.
Find the right Section and Chapter
The HTS has 22 sections and 99 chapters, organized from raw materials (Chapters 1-27) to finished goods (Chapters 84-97). Find the chapter that covers your product category.
Read the Section and Chapter Notes
Before looking at individual codes, read the legal notes at the top of each section and chapter. These notes define what's included and excluded — they override everything else.
Navigate from 4-digit to 10-digit
Start with the 4-digit heading, narrow to 6-digit subheading, then to the US-specific 8-10 digit code. Each level adds specificity. Compare your product against each option at each level.
Check tariff overlays
Once you have the HTS code, check if Section 301 (China), Section 232 (steel/aluminum), or Section 122 (temporary surcharge) tariffs apply. These are in addition to the base duty rate.
Verify with a professional
For high-value or complex shipments, confirm your classification with a licensed customs broker or request a binding ruling from CBP. The cost of professional review is far less than misclassification penalties.
General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs)
Classification determined by terms of headings and section/chapter notes
Incomplete, unfinished, or unassembled articles classified as if complete
Mixtures and combinations classified per GRI 3
Goods classifiable under multiple headings → most specific heading, essential character, or last numerically
Goods not elsewhere classified → most similar heading
Cases, containers, and packing materials classified with their contents
Same rules apply to subheading classification
Misclassification penalties are increasing
CBP has ramped up enforcement of tariff classification in 2025-2026, particularly for goods subject to Section 301 tariffs. Penalties can reach 4x the unpaid duties. When in doubt, check CBP binding rulings or consult a customs broker.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tariff classification?
Tariff classification is the process of assigning a Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code to an imported product. The code determines the duty rate, eligibility for trade agreements, and whether special tariffs (Section 301, 232, 122) apply. Getting it right is a legal obligation — misclassification can result in penalties, seizures, and back duties.
What are the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs)?
The GRIs are 6 rules that govern how HTS codes are assigned. GRI 1 says classification is determined by the terms of the headings and section/chapter notes. GRI 2-5 handle mixtures, composite goods, sets, and containers. GRI 6 applies the same logic to subheadings. In practice, most products are classified under GRI 1 alone.
What happens if I use the wrong HTS code?
Misclassification can result in: (1) underpayment or overpayment of duties, (2) CBP penalties up to 4x the unpaid duties, (3) delays and holds at the border, (4) loss of trade agreement benefits. CBP audits classification regularly and has ramped up enforcement in 2025-2026.
Can AI classify products accurately?
AI tools like ours can narrow the search to the most likely HTS codes based on product description, achieving high accuracy for common goods. However, for complex, novel, or high-value products, we recommend confirming with a licensed customs broker or requesting a binding ruling from CBP.
What is a binding ruling?
A binding ruling is an official classification decision from CBP that is legally binding for a specific product. You can request one through the CBP CROSS system. Once issued, CBP must honor it at all ports of entry. It's the gold standard for classification certainty.
How do I classify a product that has multiple materials?
Products made of multiple materials are classified based on their 'essential character' under GRI 3. Essential character is typically determined by the material that gives the product its primary function or value. For example, a leather wallet with a metal clasp is classified as leather goods, not metal articles.