What is an HS code?
HS stands for Harmonized System and is often translated into Dutch as GS, which stands for Harmonized System. HS is a globally used system developed by the World Custom Organization (WCO) that deals with the classification of traded products. The HS code list is reviewed and adjusted every five years. An HS code is required when a product crosses the European border. This ensures unanimity when it comes to goods transport: every type of product contains the same HS code worldwide. These codes are needed for your export and import issue. For every transport that passes through customs, it is checked what type of tax must be paid and whether any other costs will be added. For webshops that ship goods, indicating the HS code is therefore very important.
What does an HS code consist of?
An HS code consists of six digits as standard. The first two digits represent a main category, for example live animals and/or animal products, non-animal products, minerals, plastics, etc. The next two figures contain a section within the main group, for example for the non-animal products category there are subgroups of vegetables and fruit. The last two digits represent a subgroup within the rubric: so a little more is specified each time. Depending on the country you want to ship to or receive the product from, multiple digits can be added. Often it is supplemented to eight or ten digits. Before the product is exported, it is checked which codes must be added. There are specific conditions for the HS codes per country.
