Purserhouse

Find an HTS code by description: suggested codes, heading text and CBP rulings

Type a product description and the lookup returns up to three six-digit codes to check (a language model proposes codes only; each must exist in the tariff tables) and up to five headings whose own wording matches yours, each with the official heading text from the US tariff schedule and recent CBP CROSS rulings. You can also enter an HTS number. These are suggestions, not a classification: the importer of record declares the classification using reasonable care (19 U.S.C. 1484), and only a binding ruling from CBP is certain.

Find an HTS code by description

With a description, the lookup returns two lists. Suggested codes to check: up to three six-digit subheadings that a language model proposes for your words; a code that does not exist in the tariff tables is dropped, and the model writes none of the text you see. Matches in the schedule’s wording: up to five subheadings whose heading, subheading or line text uses your words. Each comes with the official heading and subheading text of the US tariff schedule , up to five of its 10-digit lines and the newest CBP CROSS rulings under it. If the model is not available, you get the wording matches only.

With an HTS number, it returns the heading and subheading text, the 10-digit lines and the newest CBP CROSS rulings that cite the same six-digit subheading, with the subject of each and a link to the full letter.

These are suggestions to check, not a classification. The importer of record declares the classification, using reasonable care (19 U.S.C. 1484(a)(1) ); for certainty, ask CBP for a binding ruling . A ruling is a precedent for the goods it describes, not proof that a code is right for yours.

From a description to a code

  1. Read the heading and its notes, not just the index. The General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) at the front of the HTSUS say that the table of contents, alphabetical index and titles are only for ease of reference; for legal purposes classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes (GRI 1 ).
  2. Apply the rules in order. In short, from the HTSUS text: GRI 2 treats an incomplete or unfinished article, and one entered unassembled, as the complete article if it has its essential character, and extends a heading to mixtures of materials. GRI 3 decides between two possible headings: the most specific description wins; if that fails, the component that gives the goods their essential character; if that fails, the heading that comes last in numerical order. GRI 4 sends goods that fit no heading to the heading for the most akin goods. GRI 5 covers cases and packing containers. GRI 6 applies the same logic to subheadings, comparing only subheadings at the same level. The HTSUS also has Additional US Rules of Interpretation, for example on classification by use and on “parts”.
  3. Search CROSS for the same kind of goods. CROSS is CBP’s database of published rulings. Search by product words, read how CBP applied the headings to a similar article, and note the ruling number. The lookup above lists rulings under each code it shows.
  4. Check the digits you need. The ISF needs at least six digits of the HTSUS number; for entry it is usable only if given at 10 digits or more (19 CFR 149.3(a)(8) ). The lookup above works at six digits and shows the 10-digit lines under them.
  5. If it still matters, ask CBP. A binding ruling request gets you CBP’s own answer for your goods before you import.

Once you have the code, see the tariff layers that stack on it . The ISF needs the code too: see the ISF checklist .

In this section

Binding ruling request to CBP

How to request a CBP binding tariff classification ruling under 19 CFR part 177: who may ask, what to include, eRulings, CBP's stated …

Frequently asked questions

Can I type a product description and get an HTS code?

Yes, as a starting point. The lookup suggests up to three six-digit codes and lists headings whose wording matches your words, with the heading text and CBP rulings for each. It does not classify your goods: read the heading with its section and chapter notes, compare the rulings, and ask CBP for a binding ruling when it matters.

Where do the suggested codes and the text come from?

A language model reads your description and may name up to three six-digit subheadings; any code that is not in the tariff tables is dropped, and the model writes no text you see. Every heading and line text shown is the US tariff schedule's own wording (USITC export), and every ruling is from CBP's CROSS database. If the model is not available, you still get the matches of the schedule's wording.

Who is responsible for the classification?

The importer of record. Under 19 U.S.C. 1484(a)(1) the importer of record, using reasonable care, files the declared value, classification and rate of duty for the goods.

Is a CROSS ruling proof that my code is right?

No. A ruling letter applies to the goods and facts it describes; under 19 CFR 177.9 a classification ruling applies only to articles identical to the sample or description in that ruling, and CBP can modify or revoke it.

How many digits does an HTS code have?

An ISF needs the HTSUS number at six digits or more; the commodity number is usable for entry only if given at 10 digits or more (19 CFR 149.3(a)(8)).

Sources

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