liminfoHscode
Free reference guide: Hscode
About Hscode
The HS Code Reference provides a comprehensive lookup of the Harmonized System (HS) classification used by customs authorities worldwide. It covers all 97 chapters organized into 6 practical categories: Agriculture (Chapters 01-24), Chemicals (Chapters 28-39), Machinery (Chapters 84-87), Electronics (Chapters 85, 8517, 8541/8542), Textiles (Chapters 50-63), and Others including precious metals, iron, optical instruments, and furniture.
Each entry displays the HS chapter or heading code, a description of the product category, and detailed examples showing specific 4-digit headings and 6-digit subheadings. For instance, you can look up that smartphones fall under 8517.12, laptops under 8471.30, and electric vehicles under 8703.80. The tool also explains the HS code structure: 2-digit chapters, 4-digit headings, 6-digit international subheadings, and 10-digit national extensions like Korea's HSK system.
Built as a searchable, filterable reference using the RefTool component, this tool lets you browse by category or search for specific product codes. It includes practical notes on FTA preferential tariff rates, rules of origin certificates, and links to customs tariff information portals for real-world trade compliance.
Key Features
- Covers all 97 HS chapters organized into 6 searchable categories: Agriculture, Chemicals, Machinery, Electronics, Textiles, and Others
- Detailed code breakdowns from 2-digit chapter level to 6-digit subheading with real product examples
- Electronics deep-dive: specific codes for smartphones (8517.12), computers (8471), semiconductors (8541/8542), monitors (8528), and display equipment (9013/9031)
- Explains HS code hierarchy: Chapter (2-digit), Heading (4-digit), Subheading (6-digit international standard), and 10-digit national tariff codes (HSK)
- Includes FTA tariff rate guidance covering Korea-US FTA, Korea-EU FTA, and rules of origin requirements
- Category filtering for quick navigation between agricultural products, chemical compounds, industrial machinery, and consumer electronics
- Full-text search across code numbers, product descriptions, and example items in both Korean and English
- Bilingual reference data with Korean product names and English translations for cross-border trade professionals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an HS code and how is it structured?
The Harmonized System (HS) code is a standardized international system for classifying traded products, maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It uses a hierarchical structure: the first 2 digits identify the chapter (e.g., 85 = Electrical equipment), 4 digits identify the heading (e.g., 8517 = Telephones), and 6 digits identify the subheading (e.g., 8517.12 = Cellular phones). Countries add further digits for national tariff purposes, such as Korea's 10-digit HSK codes.
How do I find the HS code for smartphones or laptops?
Smartphones are classified under HS 8517.12 (Cellular telephones/smartphones), and laptops fall under HS 8471.30 (Portable automatic data processing machines). You can find these by selecting the Electronics category and searching for the product type, or by searching directly for "smartphone" or "computer" in the search field.
What product categories does this HS code reference cover?
The reference is organized into 6 categories: Agriculture (live animals, plant products, processed food in chapters 01-24), Chemicals (inorganic, organic, pharmaceuticals, plastics in chapters 28-39), Machinery (reactors, boilers, vehicles in chapters 84-87), Electronics (electrical equipment, semiconductors, displays), Textiles (fibers, knitted and non-knitted apparel in chapters 50-63), and Others (precious metals, iron products, optical instruments, furniture, toys).
How are FTA tariff rates related to HS codes?
Free Trade Agreement (FTA) preferential tariff rates are applied based on HS codes. For example, under the Korea-US FTA or Korea-EU FTA, certain products may qualify for reduced or zero tariffs if they meet rules of origin requirements. You need a certificate of origin and the correct HS classification to claim FTA benefits. The reference includes guidance on checking FTA rates versus basic tariff rates.
What is the difference between 6-digit and 10-digit HS codes?
The first 6 digits of an HS code are internationally standardized and used by all WCO member countries. Beyond 6 digits, each country adds its own extensions for national tariff and statistical purposes. Korea uses a 10-digit HSK (Harmonized System of Korea) code. For example, a smartphone might be classified as 8517.12.0000 in Korea's system, where 8517.12 is the international portion.
How do I classify semiconductor chips and integrated circuits?
Semiconductors are classified under HS 8541 (diodes, transistors, LEDs, solar cells) and 8542 (electronic integrated circuits). Specifically, processors and controllers fall under 8542.31, memory chips under 8542.32, and solar cells under 8541.40. Display and semiconductor manufacturing equipment is classified separately under 9031.41 (wafer/semiconductor inspection equipment).
What HS codes cover vehicles and automotive parts?
Vehicles are classified under Chapter 87: tractors (8701), buses for 10+ passengers (8702), passenger cars (8703), trucks (8704), and vehicle parts/accessories (8708). Electric vehicles specifically fall under 8703.80. This chapter is critical for automotive import/export compliance and FTA tariff determination.
Can I use this reference for customs declaration purposes?
This reference provides a comprehensive overview of HS code classifications with detailed examples suitable for initial product classification and educational purposes. For official customs declarations, you should verify codes through your national customs authority (e.g., Korea Customs Service portal) as specific national extensions and ruling interpretations may apply to your product.