Certain stores on the Advanced Shopify or Shopify Plus plans may have access to a beta feature that allows them to collect duty and import taxes at checkout. Importing goods into the United States, and subsequently working with US Customs, comes with extra process and paperwork. US Customs requires businesses to declare the items they’re importing into the country using an important identifier, known as an HTS code. Understanding how to import your goods through customs, including the proper use of HTS codes, will help you avoid headaches at the border and ensure there are no hold ups or delays when it comes to shipments and eventually getting products into the hands of your customers. Here, we’ll outline how HTS codes work, how to determine the HTS codes for your goods, and the ramifications of improper usage—including fees, unexpected inspections, seizures, and penalties levied by US Customs. HTS code definition An HTS code is a unique 10-digit number that determines the tariff tax or duty incurred on items imported into the United States from other countries. HTS codes are maintained by the United States International Trade Commission, but enforced by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of the Department of Homeland Security. HTS codes: understanding the terminology The world of international ecommerce and imports can feel complicated, in no small part due to a slew of terms and acronyms that make understanding processes even harder. Before we dive into how HTS codes work, let’s define some of the governing bodies and terms you’ll encounter as you navigate the world of imports: World Customs Organization Established in 1952 as the Customs Co-op Council, the World Customs Organization (WCO) is an independent intergovernmental body representing 183 customs administrators around the world, responsible for approximately 98% of international trade. They work to create uniformity, harmony, and efficiency in customs regulations across countries. The WCO established and maintains the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, typically referred to as the Harmonized System or the HS. Harmonized System (HS) Formally known as the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, the HS is a universal language for identifying and coding goods being traded internationally. In other words, it’s a nomenclature for transportable goods. Almost all countries use this system for their customs tariffs and for trade statistics. The last version of the HS was put in place in 2017, while a new version will be introduced and take effect on January, 1, 2022. HS code A six-digit code that categorizes each imported good. The first two digits represent the chapter, the middle two digits represent the heading within the chapter, and last two digits represent the sub-heading within the heading. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Brought into effect in 1989, the HTS is a hierarchical numerical structure for describing goods for duty, quota, and statistical purposes in the United States. The system is based upon the HS. Be aware that the HTS is sometimes referred to as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). HTS code A 10-digit code that categorizes each imported good. The first six digits are an HS code. The subsequent two digits identify the US subheading of the HS code to determine the duty rate, while the final two digits are a statistical suffix. United States International Trade Commission (USITC) Established in 1916, the United States federal agency in charge of trade-related mandates. It maintains the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Customs and Border Protection of the Department of Homeland Security (CBP) Established in July 1789 and consolidated into its current form in March 2003, US Customs and Border Protection is charged with maintaining the integrity of the country’s borders and ports of entry. It enforces the HTS. Statistical Classification of Domestic and Foreign Commodities Exported from the United Stat...