EU Import: Finding Your Commodity Code
Quick answer
To find out your commodity code for importing goods into the EU, you need to identify the correct code from the Harmonised System (HS) and the EU’s Combined Nomenclature (CN). This code is essential for customs declarations and determines applicable duties, taxes, and import conditions [1].
DClassify your goods — free, no sign-up to try.Key takeaways
- Commodity codes are based on the Harmonised System (HS) and extended in the EU by the Combined Nomenclature (CN) [1:1].
- The TARIC code adds further EU-specific subheadings and additional codes for precise classification [2].
- Some Member States use national additional codes to reflect specific local requirements [1:2].
- Commodity codes must be declared in customs declarations and transit documents, generally using at least the six-digit HS code [1:3].
- Simplified coding applies for certain goods and low-value transactions under specific conditions [3].
- Accurate commodity codes are crucial for correct tariff application, statistical reporting, and compliance with EU customs rules [1:4].
Understanding the Harmonised System (HS) and Combined Nomenclature (CN)
The foundation of commodity coding for EU imports is the Harmonised System (HS), an internationally standardised system of names and numbers to classify traded products. The HS provides a six-digit code that identifies the product category and its characteristics. This system is maintained by the World Customs Organization and is used globally to ensure uniform classification [1:5].
Within the EU, the HS is extended by the Combined Nomenclature (CN), which adds two additional digits to the HS six-digit code, resulting in an eight-digit code. The CN is updated annually and published by the European Commission. It reflects EU-specific tariff and statistical requirements, including preferential trade arrangements and regulatory measures [1:6][2:1].
In practice, when you ask “how do i find out a commodity code,” you start by identifying the six-digit HS code that best matches your product’s description. Then, you check the CN to see if a more specific eight-digit code applies. This eight-digit CN code is the primary commodity code used for customs declarations in the EU [1:7].
The Role of the TARIC Code in EU Imports
Beyond the CN, the EU uses the TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Communities) system to add further detail to commodity codes. TARIC codes extend the CN code by adding two more digits, resulting in a 10-digit code in total. These additional digits specify EU tariff measures, import restrictions, quotas, or other regulatory requirements applying to the product [2:2].
For customs declarations, the TARIC code is often required to precisely identify the goods and the applicable measures. This code ensures that customs authorities can apply the correct duties, taxes, and controls. The TARIC system integrates all EU trade policy measures, including anti-dumping duties, tariff suspensions, and tariff quotas [2:3].
Therefore, while the HS and CN codes provide the base classification, the TARIC code reflects the full regulatory context for your imported goods. When completing customs declarations, you enter the TARIC subheading corresponding to your product to comply with EU import rules [1:8][2:4].
National Additional Codes: Member State Specifics
Some EU Member States apply national additional codes to the commodity codes. These codes are used to meet specific national requirements, such as additional statistical data collection or local regulatory controls. They are appended to the TARIC code and vary from one Member State to another [1:9].
In customs declarations, these national additional codes are entered in designated fields, as specified by the relevant Member State’s customs authority. They are important for compliance with local rules but do not alter the EU-wide classification of goods [1:10].
If you are importing into a particular Member State, you should verify with the national competent authority whether national additional codes apply to your goods and how to include them in your customs documentation [1:11].
When and Where to Declare Commodity Codes
Commodity codes must be declared in all customs import declarations submitted to the customs authorities of the Member State where the goods enter the EU. The declaration requires at least the six-digit HS code, but generally, the eight-digit CN code is used. The TARIC code and any national additional codes must also be included where applicable [1:12].
For example, in the Union transit procedure, the commodity code of at least six digits must be entered in the transit declaration. The code can be expanded to eight digits for national use, and the Combined Nomenclature heading is used where required by Union legislation [1:13].
Commodity codes are also necessary for statistical reporting and valuation purposes. They help determine the applicable customs duties, taxes, and any restrictions or licensing requirements. Failure to declare the correct commodity code can result in delays, penalties, or incorrect duty payments [1:14].
Key Data Elements Related to Commodity Codes
When declaring commodity codes, several related data elements are important for customs compliance:
- Valuation indicators: Codes indicating relevant valuation factors such as party relationships or conditions affecting the transaction value [4].
- Preference codes: Indicate the tariff preference regime applicable to the goods, such as Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) or tariff suspensions [4:1].
- Office of destination: The customs office where the goods will be processed, identified by a country code and office code [4:2].
- Additional information: Codes related to packaging, transport, and other transaction details may be required alongside commodity codes [1:15][5].
These data elements complement the commodity code to ensure accurate customs processing and compliance with the Union Customs Code and its implementing regulations [4:3][1:16].
Simplified Coding for Specific Goods and Transactions
The EU allows simplified coding for certain goods and transactions, facilitating easier customs procedures. For example, goods delivered to vessels and aircraft or goods for offshore installations may be declared under simplified CN codes, as specified in Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1776 [3:1].
Moreover, individual transactions with a value below €200 may use a simplified code (e.g., CN code 99500000) for intra-EU trade reporting or residual product reporting [3:2].
These simplified codes reduce administrative burdens but are subject to conditions laid down in relevant EU regulations. Businesses should verify whether their goods qualify for simplified coding with the relevant national authority or customs documentation guidelines [3:3].
How Do I Find Out a Commodity Code?
To answer the question “how do i find out a commodity code,” start by identifying your product’s description and characteristics. Use the Harmonised System (HS) to find the six-digit code that best matches your product. Then consult the EU Combined Nomenclature (CN) to find the corresponding eight-digit code, which reflects EU-specific tariff and statistical classifications [1:17].
Next, check the TARIC database to see if additional digits are required to reflect EU tariff measures or restrictions. Finally, verify if any national additional codes apply in the Member State where you import the goods [1:18][2:5].
Many Member States provide online tools or databases to assist businesses in searching for commodity codes, often linked to TARIC and CN databases. If uncertain, the relevant national customs authority can provide guidance to ensure accurate classification.
Next steps
- Identify the product’s characteristics and intended use to determine the base HS code.
- Consult the EU Combined Nomenclature to find the eight-digit CN code corresponding to the HS code.
- Check the TARIC system for any additional digits or codes applicable to your product.
- Verify if national additional codes apply in the Member State of import and include them in your customs declaration.
- Use the complete commodity code and related data elements when submitting your customs declaration to the relevant national competent authority.
FAQ
Where can I search for commodity codes?
Commodity codes can be searched using the EU’s TARIC database and the Combined Nomenclature published by the European Commission. Many Member States also provide online tools to assist in classification [1:19][2:6].
How can I find the HS code for a product?
Start by describing the product’s material composition, function, and use, then consult the Harmonised System (HS) nomenclature to find the six-digit code that matches. This code is the basis for the EU Combined Nomenclature [1:20].
What is a 10 digit commodity code?
A 10-digit commodity code in the EU consists of the eight-digit Combined Nomenclature (CN) code plus two additional digits from the TARIC system. This extended code specifies EU tariff measures, restrictions, or other regulatory requirements [2:7].
How to check HS code for a product?
You can check the HS code by consulting the official Harmonised System nomenclature tables or using online classification tools provided by customs authorities or the European Commission. Confirm the code by matching your product’s description with the official headings and subheadings [1:21].
Sources
Need the commodity code for your goods?
The HS Code Classifier takes a plain description of your product and returns the HS6, CN8 and TARIC code, with the reasoning behind each digit.
