HTS Code Lookup: How to Find Your Harmonized Tariff Code in 2026
Every product imported into the US needs a Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. Get the wrong code and you'll pay the wrong duty rate — sometimes thousands of dollars too much. This guide shows you exactly how to find the right code and check your current duty rate.
🔍 Quick HTS Code Search
Enter a product description or HTS code number:
What Is an HTS Code?
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is the US version of the international Harmonized System (HS). It classifies every importable product with a numeric code that determines:
- The duty rate (tariff percentage) you'll pay
- Whether the product qualifies for free trade agreement benefits
- Any special restrictions or licensing requirements
- Applicable Section 301, Section 232, or other surcharges
How HTS Codes Are Structured
| Digits | Level | Example (Ceramic Tiles) |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 | Chapter | 69 — Ceramic products |
| First 4 | Heading | 6907 — Ceramic flags, tiles |
| First 6 | Subheading (international) | 6907.21 — Tiles, absorption ≤0.5% |
| 8-10 | US-specific tariff line | 6907.21.1010 — Specific tile type with duty rate |
The first 6 digits are internationally standardized. The last 4 digits are US-specific and determine your exact duty rate.
How to Look Up Your HTS Code: Step by Step
The HTS has 99 chapters organized by material/type. Common ones: Chapter 39 (plastics), 61-62 (clothing), 73 (steel), 84-85 (machinery/electronics), 94 (furniture).
Within your chapter, find the 4-digit heading that best describes your product's material and function.
The 6-digit subheading adds specificity — size, composition, processing method, etc.
This is the US-specific tariff line with the exact duty rate. Use our HTS browser to find it, or search the official USITC database.
Free HTS Lookup Tools
| Tool | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Tariff Check | Quick searches with 2026 rates + surcharges | tariff-check.com/browse |
| USITC HTS Search | Official source, full legal text | hts.usitc.gov |
| CBP CROSS Database | Rulings — see how similar products were classified | rulings.cbp.gov |
2026 Tariff Surcharges to Watch
Beyond the base HTS duty rate, many imports now have additional surcharges:
- 10% Import Surcharge (Feb 2026) — Applies to most imports. Full details →
- Section 301 (China) — 25-100% additional duties on Chinese goods by category
- Section 232 (Steel/Aluminum) — 25% on steel, 10% on aluminum from most countries
- Semiconductor Tariffs — New 2026 duties on Chinese chips. Full details →
Common HTS Classification Mistakes
- Classifying by use instead of material. HTS classifies primarily by what something IS, not what it's FOR. A plastic phone case is classified under plastics (Chapter 39), not phones (Chapter 85).
- Using the wrong country of origin. Duty rates vary by country. USMCA (Mexico/Canada) often means 0% duty. China usually means Section 301 surcharges.
- Ignoring sets and kits. A gift set with multiple items follows special classification rules (General Rule of Interpretation 3).
- Not checking for updates. HTS codes change annually. A code valid in 2025 might be split or renumbered in 2026.
When to Hire a Customs Broker
Do it yourself if your imports are simple and under $2,500/shipment. Hire a broker if:
- You import more than $10K/year
- Your products could fall under multiple HTS codes
- You're importing from China (Section 301 complexity)
- You need to claim free trade agreement benefits
→ Customs Broker vs DIY: Full Comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
How many digits is an HTS code?
US HTS codes are 8-10 digits. The first 6 are internationally standardized (HS code). The last 2-4 are US-specific and determine your exact duty rate.
What's the difference between HS code and HTS code?
HS (Harmonized System) is the international 6-digit standard used by 200+ countries. HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) is the US-specific version that adds 2-4 more digits for duty rate determination. The first 6 digits are the same.
Can I get fined for using the wrong HTS code?
Yes. CBP can impose penalties of up to 4x the duty owed for negligent misclassification, and up to 8x for fraud. They can also seize goods. If you're unsure, request a free binding ruling from CBP.
How do I find the duty rate for my HTS code?
Once you have the 8-10 digit HTS code, look up the "General" duty rate column. This is the rate for most countries. "Special" rates may apply if there's a free trade agreement. Check our HTS browser for the easiest lookup.