Every imported product is classified under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS). The first six digits follow the international Harmonized System, and the U.S. extends them to ten. The code determines the duty rate, any quotas or special programs, and whether other agencies such as FDA or USDA must review the goods.
Classification follows the General Rules of Interpretation and depends on what the product is made of, how it works and what it is used for. A wrong code can mean overpaid duties or penalties. If you are unsure, your broker can review it with you, and importers can also request a binding ruling from CBP.
For informational purposes only; not legal advice. Import rules, duties and fees change. Please contact us for detailed information about your situation.