HS code and classification in India: your questions, answered
Which code, how to find it, and what happens if it is wrong.
- Indian Customs uses an eight-digit code. The first six digits follow the international HS.
- The ICEGATE Trade Guide shows the current duty for any code.
- A wrong code can mean a query, a penalty or a duty demand.
- Unsure? Ask before you ship.
What is an HS code?
A number that classifies a product for Customs, duty and trade rules.
The first six digits are international. India adds two more, so you will see eight-digit codes.
How do I find the right code?
- Describe the product by what it is, what it is made of and what it does
- Look at the chapter and heading notes
- Check the code on the ICEGATE Trade Guide
- If still unsure, ask us or seek an advance ruling
Where do I see the current duty?
On the ICEGATE Trade Guide on Imports.
Enter the tariff head and, if it matters, the country of origin.
Did you know? One code system for world trade
Q. Who looks after the HS code? The World Customs Organization. The Harmonized System came into force on 1 January 1988.
Q. Why does an Indian importer care? Your product has the same first six digits in India and in your supplier country. That makes the description on every paper easier to match.
Illustration, not a photograph.What happens if the code is wrong?
- Customs may raise a query
- Duty may be demanded again
- Penalties can follow in serious cases
Can I ask Customs for a ruling?
Yes. An advance ruling on classification is available.
Our guide explains how it works.
Is there a tool on this site?
Yes, the HS Code Finder and the Product Guide help you reach the right chapter.
Their tariff data is from 2023. Always confirm the current heading and duty on ICEGATE.
Where can I read more?
Not sure how this applies to your shipment? Send us the product and the route. A call or a message is all it takes, and we are with you at every step of the way, whether you are importing or exporting.
Multimodal Logistic Systems Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India. Written by Shankar Jha. We are consultants, not a law firm. This page is general information.