Duty and tax rates depend on classification
A small classification difference can change duty percentage, VAT/GST base, or whether anti-dumping or safeguard measures apply. Accurate classification protects your landed cost forecast.
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Educational guide to HS codes, import classification, and the documents buyers need for customs clearance when importing from China.
Overview
Harmonized System (HS) codes are standardized numerical classifications for traded goods. Customs authorities use HS codes to determine duty rates, import restrictions, and statistical reporting. Every product crossing a border is assigned a code — usually six digits internationally, with additional digits added by each country for local tariff lines.
Why it matters
A small classification difference can change duty percentage, VAT/GST base, or whether anti-dumping or safeguard measures apply. Accurate classification protects your landed cost forecast.
Incorrect codes trigger customs holds, reclassification fees, or penalties. Consistent classification across invoice, packing list, and transport documents speeds clearance.
Some HS lines require inspection certificates, licenses, or labeling rules. Knowing the correct code early helps you plan testing and documentation before shipment.
Your customs broker will classify goods for official entry. Sharing product specs, photos, and intended use early reduces back-and-forth at the port.
Supplier vs customs
They are related but not always identical — and the import code is what destination customs assesses.
Chinese suppliers often quote an HS code on proforma invoices based on their export experience. That code reflects how they declare the product for export from China. Your destination country may use a more specific national tariff line, combine product functions differently, or apply different duty treatment for the same physical goods.
Treat the supplier code as a starting reference — not the final legal classification. Confirm with your customs broker before production completes, especially for multi-component kits, sets, or products with both hardware and software functions.
Your responsibility
KM Enterprises can help organize commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates, and inspection reports so your broker has complete product detail. We coordinate documentation workflows across supplier, inspector, and freight forwarder — but we do not replace customs authority or licensed broker judgment on final HS classification and duty assessment.
Documents
Share your product description, destination, and draft documents. We will review completeness and alignment before you ship — so your broker receives consistent paperwork.
FAQ
Quick answers on verification, inspection, shipping, calculators, and customs documents.
Yes. KM Enterprises can verify business licenses, export registration, factory capability, and production readiness before you commit to a deposit or bulk order.
Yes. We arrange pre-shipment inspection, inline checks for larger orders, and documented release or hold recommendations before balance payment.
Yes. Our team coordinates sea and air freight, export documentation, and milestone tracking for KM-managed shipments.
Yes. Use our shipment calculator for planning, then request a formal freight quote with your carton dimensions, weight, and destination.
No. Calculator results are planning estimates only. Binding freight rates and landed costs depend on lane, cargo type, customs rules, and current market rates.
Yes. We help organize invoices, packing lists, certificates, and inspection reports for your customs broker. Final HS classification is confirmed by customs authority or your broker.
Use our landed cost calculator for estimates, then request a formal review with your product specs and destination.