The US HTS code, fully known as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) code, is used by the US forimport and exportThe classification system for goods. This system is maintained by the U.S. International Trade Commission and enforced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The HTS code is a goods classification system used to determine tariffs, quotas, and other regulations for imported goods. The code consists of 10 digits. The first six digits are international standards, indicating the general classification and sub-classification of goods, consistent with the Harmonized System (HS). The seventh and eighth digits represent more detailed classifications unique to the U.S., which may not apply to other countries. The ninth and tenth digits are used for specialized U.S. internal classifications, such as statistical purposes.

The use of HTS codes is country-specific; these codes apply only to goods imported into the U.S. For imports to other countries, variants of HTS codes issued by those countries must be used.

Second, HTS codes and B-class commodity codes serve different purposes. B-class commodity codes are generally used forfor containers exported to the USidentifying and classifying goods, while HTS codes are primarily applied to efficiently identify and classify goods imported into the U.S. Although HTS codes may sometimes be used for exported goods, B-class codes cannot replace HTS codes for marking goods specifically imported into the U.S.

Additionally, assigning HTS codes requires in-depth knowledge of product characteristics, such as size, specifications, and applicability. With technological advancements and expanding product categories, the HTS code system is continuously updated and refined. For example, the 2022 World Customs Organizations new Harmonized System added numerous new categories and subheadings, such as 3D printers and smartphones, which will impact future U.S. HTS code usage.

Therefore, correctly using HTS codes is a critical skill for importers, exporters, and other trade-related professionals.