Harmonized Tariff Schedule Classification

A Harmonized Tariff Schedule Classification is a customs classification system that is an international trade nomenclature that can determine duty rates and trade statistics.

• AKA: HTS Classification, Harmonized System Code, HS Code, Tariff Classification.
• Context:
  • It can typically assign Duty Rates through product code mapping.
  • It can typically track Trade Flows through statistical categorization.
  • It can typically enforce Trade Restrictions through classification triggers.
  • It can typically enable Customs Clearances through standardized identification.
  • It can typically support Trade Agreements through preferential codes.
  • ...
  • It can often determine Section 301 Applications through specific code coverage.
  • It can often trigger Safeguard Measures through import volume tracking.
  • It can often facilitate Rules of Origin Verifications through tariff shift tests.
  • It can often influence Product Designs through classification engineering.
  • ...
  • It can range from being a Six-Digit HS Code to being a Ten-Digit HTS Code, depending on its national specification level.
  • It can range from being a Simple HTS Classification to being a Complex HTS Classification, depending on its product differentiation detail.
  • It can range from being a Stable HTS Classification to being a Frequently Revised HTS Classification, depending on its update frequency.
  • ...
  • It can integrate with Customs Systems for automated processing.
  • It can support Trade Compliances for legal requirements.
  • It can enable Supply Chain Plannings for cost calculation.
  • It can facilitate Market Researchs for trade data analysis.
  • It can inform Pricing Strategys for landed cost determination.
  • ...
• Example(s):
  • Product-Specific HTS Classifications, such as:
    • 8711.60.00 for electric motorcycles and electric bicycles.
    • 8507.60.00 for lithium-ion batterys.
    • 9503.00.00 for toys and games.
  • Industry HTS Classifications, such as:
    • Chapter 84 for machinery and mechanical appliances.
    • Chapter 85 for electrical equipment.
    • Chapter 87 for vehicles and transport equipment.
  • Special HTS Classifications, such as:
    • 9801.00.10 for U.S. goods returned.
    • 9802.00.80 for assembled abroad with U.S. components.
  • ...
• Counter-Example(s):
  • NAICS Code, which classifies business establishments rather than traded products.
  • SIC Code, which identifies industry sectors instead of specific goods.
  • UN Comtrade Code, which serves statistical purposes without duty determination.
• See: World Customs Organization, Trade Statistics, Customs Duty, Rules of Origin, Trade Agreement, Product Classification, Import Documentation, Tariff Engineering.

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