Exporting to the United States – A Team Canada Inc Publication

7.3 Harmonized System (HS) codes

Before you can export your product, you'll have to determine the Harmonized System code (HS code) that applies to it. The Harmonized System is an internationally developed and implemented commodity-description and coding system, upon which the tariffs of most countries of the world (including the NAFTA countries) are based. You'll need the correct HS code at the U.S. border, where the customs authorities will use it to determine the duties, taxes and regulations that apply to your shipment.

In Canada, HS codes are based on an international six-digit root with an additional two digits added for Canadian domestic purposes. There's also a 10-digit version that will give exact statistical information about your exports. You can find out more about these codes at exportsource.ca.

Statistics Canada also has a reference page on Canadian Export Classification. This lets you search by commodity description or HS code, and also provides a tool for converting Canadian eight-digit export codes to the 10-digit codes the U.S. uses for imports. (The U.S. sometimes refers to the codes as "HTS Codes" – Harmonized Tariff Schedule Codes). If you need help determining your code, you can call Statistics Canada at 1 800 294-5583.

You can also see how the U.S. 10-digit version of the system works by visiting the Harmonized Tariff Schedule available on the U.S. International Trade Commission Web site.