Consequences of wrong classification
Misclassification is a legal failure, not a clerical one. It can result in excess customs duty demands, rejection of duty drawback or RoDTEP claims, shipment delays, and in serious cases, goods seizure under the Customs Act, 1962.
How to read your HS code
Always classify by the product's essential character — not its use or trade name. Read the Section Notes and Chapter Notes before the subheading descriptions: they are legally binding and take precedence. When in doubt, apply the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) in order.
Official WCO Trade Tools
The WCO's official platform gives free access to the HS 2022 nomenclature online, with all five recent editions, Classification Opinions, and Explanatory Notes (subscription required for EN).
WCO HS 2022 → WCO Trade Tools →
India's ITC-HS (8-digit extension)
India's DGFT extends the 6-digit HS to 8 digits under ITC-HS. Schedule I governs imports; Schedule II governs exports. The current version is synced with the Finance Act, 2022.
DGFT ITC-HS → CBIC Tariff →
Need help classifying your product?
Incorrect classification affects duty liability, export incentives, and compliance. Our team can assist with ITC-HS code verification for your shipment.