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Get the Classification Right the First Time
The HS code assigned to your goods determines the duty rate, the permits required, and how closely customs scrutinizes the shipment. Misclassification — even unintentional — can mean back-duty demands, penalties, or repeated inspection holds. We classify goods based on their actual composition and use, and document the reasoning so it holds up if customs asks.
What this covers
- HS/tariff code determination for new or existing product lines
- Classification review for goods currently facing repeated customs queries
- Binding ruling requests where a classification is genuinely ambiguous
- Classification documentation to support audits or disputes
- Ongoing classification maintenance as product specifications change
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Process steps
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Areas covered
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Common questions
Process
How it works
- 01
Product review
We assess the product's composition, function, and packaging — the factors that actually determine classification, not just its marketing description.
- 02
Code determination
A classification is assigned with reference to the relevant tariff schedule and, where useful, prior rulings on similar goods.
- 03
Documentation
The reasoning behind the classification is documented so it can be defended if customs disputes it later.
- 04
Ruling request (where needed)
For genuinely ambiguous products, we can prepare and submit a binding ruling request to the customs authority.
Watch for
Where this commonly goes wrong
Most delays trace back to a small, recurring set of causes. Being aware of them before shipping reduces the odds of hitting one.
- 01
Products that could plausibly fall under two or more headings depending on interpretation
- 02
Multi-component products classified based on only one component
- 03
Classifications copied from a supplier's paperwork without independent verification
- 04
Repeated customs queries on the same product line due to inconsistent past classification
Common questions
Where we provide this
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