Author Name: Emma Hau – Marketing Analyst at FreightAmigo

All imported and exported shipments are subject to customs declaration and clearance procedures. When handling the relevant shipping documents, the sender may need to fill in the HS Code. If you fail to submit accurate information, the shipment may be delayed! Let’s learn more about Hong Kong and UK HS code with FreightAmigo!

What is HS code?

When assessing customs duties and taxes, customs officers in various countries need to use the HS code to accurately identify the type of shipment.

HS code Harmonized System (Harmonized System) is an international general customs number designed by the World Customs Organization. As a multi-purpose taxonomy, it can be used by customs and statistics departments, importers and exporters, the transportation industry and others involved in international trade.

Harmonized Numbering System in Hong Kong adopts an 8-digit classification system. The first 6 digits of the sub-items follow the requirements of the World Customs Organization Harmonized System. The 7th and 8th digits are used for more detailed classification of goods to meet local needs.

Importance of HS code

Due to the language and cultural differences in different places, written statements alone may cause misunderstandings. For example, notebook can imply both writing notepad or smart tablet device, and glasses can be both eye-glasses or drinking glasses. If there is such a misunderstanding when filling out the declaration documents, there is a chance that customs clearance will be delayed.

Therefore, using HS code to fill in the declaration documents can avoid the above situation and ensure a smooth customs clearance process.

Look Up Your Code

Since items are classified according to ingredients, materials, uses, etc., it is convenient for local customs to determine the amount of tax payable. Before shipping, remember to visit the customs website of the destinated country to look up the correct HS code for your consignment!

If you are sending items to the UK, you can visit UK Customs website to find the HS code you need.

Using bicycle as an example

• If the bicycle is consigned from Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka or Tunisia, commodity code is 8712003010
• If the bicycle is consigned from Cambodia, Pakistan, or the Philippines, commodity code is 8712003020
• If the bicycle is consigned from other countries, commodity code is 8712003090

If you are sending items to Hong Kong, you can visit Census and Statics Department to find the HS code you need.

Using bicycle as an example

• Bicycles and other cycles that are not motorized (including delivery tricycles), commodity code is 87120000

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