What is HS Codes:
The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as HS Codes, HTS Codes, or Tariff Numbers, is a 6 to 14-digit code developed, and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and used by customs authorities to idetify a product and evaluate the duty owed.
Breakdown of an HS Code:
Chapter: the first two digits
Heading: the second two digits
Subheading: the third two digits
Local Classification: the last four digits
The more digits added, the more precise it gets.
Benefits of using a complete and accurate HS Codes:
Accurate product declaration: It helps customs authorities determine the contents of your shipment. Specifying an HS code allows any specific clearance process or restriction to be swiftly determined, saving time during customs clearance.
Effect on duty rate: Duty is calculated based on the product's country of origin, the shipment's destination, the HS code used, and local regulations. The more accurate the HS code, the more precise the duty rate.
How to find HS Codes for your products:
The first go to for Indonesian shippers to find product's HS code is Indonesia National Trade Repository (INTR) website - as it will also allow you to directly check whether your goods can be exported from Indonesia or not.
⚠️ Important: Effective 29 Aug 2025, all shipments to United States requires 10-digit HS Codes or specifically called US HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) Codes for customs clearance. You can look up for accurate HTS Codes on the U.S. Census Bureau or U.S. International Trade Commission website.
Or utilize ChatGPT or Google Gemini AI to help finding the HS/HTS code of your products.
Example of using a complete and proper HS Code:
Say you’re shipping "Men’s Suit of Knitted Wool" to the US (United States) – the HS/HTS code will be as follows:
61 = Articles of apparel and clothing accessories, knitted or crocheted
6103 = Men's or boys' suits, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches and shorts (excl. wind-jackets and similar articles, separate waistcoats, tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear)
6103.10 = Men's or boys' suits, knitted or crocheted
6103.10.1000 = Men's or boys' suits, knitted or crocheted, of wool or fine animal hair
With the complete HS/HTS Codes, customs authorities will be able to identify the contents of your package without needing to open your package for physical checking - so it can prevent clearance delays.