HS Code vs HTSUS vs TARIC: Which One Do You Actually Need?
Practical guidance from HS Code Toolbox
Exporters quickly discover there is more than one number. The 6-digit HS code is global, but for actual duty and clearance you usually need a longer, country-specific code. Here is the short version of how they fit together.
The 6-digit HS base is the foundation
The Harmonized System's first six digits are identical worldwide. They identify the heading and the six-digit subheading for your product. This is your starting point for every market.
HTSUS — the United States
In the US, classification uses the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which extends the HS code to 10 digits. The first six match the international base; the last four give US-specific detail and the applicable duty rate.
For most US imports you need the full 10-digit HTSUS number on your entry.
TARIC — the European Union
The EU uses TARIC (Tarif Intégré de la Communauté), which extends the base to 10 digits too. TARIC adds EU-specific measures beyond duty — such as anti-dumping duties, quotas and suspension — that a plain 8-digit CN code would miss.
For an EU customs declaration, the 10-digit TARIC code is the practical number.
China — the 10-digit national schedule
China also operates a 10-digit national tariff schedule. The first 6 digits match the international base, with national subdivisions used for duty and management measures.
Which number do you actually need?
For planning and comparing, the 6-digit base is enough to understand your product's broad treatment. For an actual declaration, you need the full national code (10 digits in the US, EU and China) of the destination country.
This is why a tool that shows the 6-digit base alongside each market's national code — as ours does — saves you real time in the planning phase.