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In the HS code, HS stands for the harmonized system. The HS was constructed by WCO (World Customs Organisation). The code was constructed for multipurpose international product nomenclature that explains the type of shipped goods. Any product that enters or crosses international borders then it mandatory for the customs officer uses HS code to give it clearance.
Before going further you must know HS code meaning to clearly understand its importance and how it works. Hs code is also known by the name of HTS which means Harmonized Tariff Schedule code. This was created for categorizing goods into 5,000 commodity groups approximately, which has been accepted and implemented by more than 200 countries worldwide.
The following contains the information regarding the structure of the HS code:
Kyoto Convention of 1974 is a major source of the code. Facilitating simplification and harmonization of the Customs Procedures. The application of efficient procedures, as well as new and obligatory rules for their implementation, are conducted by the Kyoto Convention.
In electronic messages like the EDIFACT extensively utilises HS codes. HS code has made it easier for the system to get addressed worldwide a standard unit for describing goods for multiple platforms. HS code gives universal identification to the products, making it easier for the authorities to recognise the product.
There are more than 200 countries and other economies around the globe uses HS code for their collection of international trade statistics and the customs tariffs. More than 98% of the goods are classified on the bases of HS code for global trading.
Apart from governmental organisations, HS code is also utilised by international and private sector firms. The following contains the major operations of the HS code:
HS code performs multiple activities and it is regarded as an indispensable tool for global trading, universal economic language and the coding of commodities.
The International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System governs the maintenance of the HS code, although its official interpretation of the HS provided in the explanatory notes. WCO publishes those Explanatory Notes.
HS code has been used for multiple purposes, therefore, the WCO gives priority to the maintenance of HS code. Prioritising the maintenance includes some of the important measures such as securing the uniform interpretation as a well periodic update in the shadow of development in technology and fluctuations in trade platforms.
With the help of the Harmonized System Committee that represents the Contracting Signatories/Parties to the HS Convention, WCO manages the entire process. Following are roles played by the committee:
Usage of incorrect code may be considered by customs as non-compliance, misleading or misdeclaration – each of which comes with its associated penalties, therefore, is essential for the importers to use correct HS code and its right interpretation has the utmost importance.
Although utilising correct HS code is very essential but it can be tricky at specific instances. Thus, appropriate HS code search is important for global trade. The interpretation of HS codes may or may not vary in different countries and their customs authorities. If the code is correct, then it would lead to the implication of improper tariff applied by customs, which increases the cost of imports to the customer exponentially. You can even use HS code finder available over internet for making the task much easier and accurate.
Therefore, if the clients are confused about the HS codes, then they should confer with the expert or their agents.