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Language Foundation

HS code

An HS code, or Harmonized System code, is an internationally standardized numerical code that classifies a type of goods for customs tariffs and trade statistics.

In plain English

It is a number used to put goods into the same recognized category across countries. The number represents a type of goods, so customs authorities can apply tariffs and record trade statistics in a consistent way.

In context

In that courier customs portal, “HS code” labels the field for the internationally standardized goods-classification number for the item.

Situation
Completing customs, import, export, duty, declaration, and clearance administration
What it communicates
labels the item-classification field in the courier customs portal.

Meaning limits

The term itself names only the standardized classification number for a type of goods, not the full details of the goods.

Examples

“The cotton shirts shared one HS code despite coming in different sizes and colours.”

Core meaning

“In the courier customs portal, she typed the HS code into the field below the item description.”

In context

  • classification code Broader Term

    An HS code is one kind of classification code.