How to Find Your HS Code: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Exporters  

January 13, 2026
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Navigating international trade can feel overwhelming, especially when you encounter terms like “HS Code” for the first time. Whether you’re a cross-border e-commerce seller on Amazon, Walmart, or Shopify, a growing manufacturer, or a retailer sourcing products from China, understanding and correctly classifying your goods is a critical first step. Getting it right ensures smooth customs clearance, accurate duty calculation, and avoids costly delays and penalties.

This step-by-step guide is designed to help first-time exporters like you confidently find the correct HS Code for your products.

What is an HS Code and Why is it So Important?  

The Harmonized System (HS) Code is a standardized international nomenclature for classifying traded products. Used by over 200 countries, it’s a 6-digit code that describes your product in a language that customs authorities worldwide understand.

Why getting your HS Code correct is non-negotiable:

  • Determines Import Duties & Taxes: The code directly dictates the tariff rate your customer or you will pay.
  • Ensures Customs Clearance: An incorrect code can lead to seized shipments, port delays, and storage fees.
  • Required for Shipping Documents: It’s mandatory on commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading.
  • Compliance with Regulations: Certain codes are subject to additional regulations, licenses, or restrictions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your HS Code  

Step 1: Gather Detailed Product Information  

You cannot find the correct code without a clear description. Gather:

  • Product Name: (e.g., “Stainless Steel Insulated Travel Mug”)
  • Material Composition: (e.g., 80% stainless steel, 20% plastic, silicone lid)
  • Function/Purpose: (e.g., To keep beverages hot or cold for personal use)
  • Dimensions, Capacity, and Brand: Specifics matter.

Step 2: Use Online Tariff Databases  

Start your search with these free tools:

  1. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Trade Tools: Offers the official HS nomenclature.
  2. Your Destination Country’s Customs Website: The final authority is the importing country. Search “[Country] Customs Tariff Database” (e.g., “U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)” or “UK Integrated Tariff”).
  3. China-Specific Resources: Since you’re shipping goods from China, you can cross-reference with the China Customs HS Code Lookup.

Pro Tip for E-commerce Sellers: Platforms like Amazon FBA and Walmart Marketplace often provide guidance or requirements for HS codes in their seller help centers. Check their rules for your target market.

Step 3: Break Down the HS Code Structure  

An HS code is hierarchical. Let’s use the travel mug example:

  • Chapter (First 2 digits): 73 – Articles of Iron or Steel.
  • Heading (First 4 digits): 7323 – Table, kitchen, or other household articles of steel.
  • Subheading (6 digits): 7323.94 — Other (including stainless steel).
  • National Level (8-10 digits): Countries add digits for further specificity. The U.S. HTS code might be 7323.94.90 for other stainless steel household articles.

Your goal is to accurately find the first 6 digits.

Step 4: Navigate the Chapters and Headings  

Don’t just rely on keyword search. Browse the chapters. Our mug isn’t just “kitware”; it’s made of a specific material. Be prepared to look in multiple places (e.g., plastics, metals) if your product is composite.

Step 5: Verify with a Professional or Customs Broker  

For first-time exporters, verification is key. If your shipment is high-value or complex, consider:

  • Consulting a Licensed Customs Broker.
  • Requesting a Binding Ruling from the destination country’s customs authority (the most definitive method).
  • Asking Your Supplier in China: Reliable Chinese manufacturers often have the HS code for their products used for export from China. Use this as a starting point, but always verify for your specific destination.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid  

  • Guessing or Using a Competitor’s Code: Similar products may have different classifications.
  • Relying Solely on Supplier-Provided Codes: They may be optimized for a different export market.
  • Not Updating Codes: The HS system is revised every 5-6 years. Ensure you’re using the current edition.

How Easychinawarehouse Can Help  

Classifying goods is just one part of the international shipping puzzle. At Easychinawarehouse, we simplify your entire supply chain from China to the global market. As your freight forwarder and logistics partner, we can:

  • Offer guidance on HS code classification based on our extensive experience.
  • Handle customs clearance documentation accurately, reducing the risk for cross-border e-commerce sellers.
  • Provide seamless door-to-door shipping solutions, whether you’re fulfilling orders for Shopify stores or shipping bulk containers as a manufacturing company.

Final Thoughts  

Taking the time to correctly classify your goods with the right HS Code is an investment in your export business’s success. It builds a foundation for compliant, predictable, and efficient international trade.

Ready to ship with confidence? Once you’ve identified your HS codes, partner with a logistics expert to handle the rest. Contact Easychinawarehouse today for a quote on shipping from China to the USA, UK, EU, or anywhere in the world. Let us help you turn the complexity of global logistics into your competitive advantage.

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