Question 1

What is an HS Code in India?

Accepted Answer

An HS Code (Harmonised System Code) is a standardised international product classification code used in customs declarations. India uses an 8-digit ITC-HS Code (Indian Trade Classification based on Harmonised System). The first 6 digits are the international HS code shared by all countries; India adds 2 more digits for domestic sub-classification. Every product exported or imported in India must have an ITC-HS code.

Question 2

What is the difference between HS Code and ITC-HS Code?

Accepted Answer

The international HS Code is 6 digits, maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by all countries. India's ITC-HS Code is 8 digits - it extends the 6-digit HS code with 2 India-specific digits. For import, the code is called ITC-HS Import code. For export, it is called ITC-HS Export code (also called Schedule B code). The Shipping Bill and Bill of Entry filed with Indian customs must have the correct 8-digit ITC-HS code.

Question 3

How do I find the HS Code for my product in India?

Accepted Answer

You can look up the ITC-HS code for your product at the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) website or the Indian Customs Tariff website. Search by product description, and the system returns the matching ITC-HS code with the applicable import duty rate. Your Customs House Agent (CHA) can also advise on the correct code for your product category.

Question 4

What happens if I use the wrong HS Code on a Shipping Bill?

Accepted Answer

Using the wrong HS code on an export Shipping Bill or import Bill of Entry can cause: (1) Customs examination of the shipment, causing delays. (2) Incorrect duty calculation - you may overpay or underpay import duties, both of which create problems. (3) Penalty under the Customs Act if the wrong code is found to be intentional. (4) Complications in claiming export incentives (RoDTEP, MEIS) which are calculated based on HS codes.

Term	Digits	Used For	Maintained By
HS Code	6	International customs declarations	World Customs Organization (WCO)
ITC-HS Code	8	Indian Shipping Bill & Bill of Entry	DGFT / Indian Customs
HSN Code	2–8	GST invoicing in India	CBIC / GST Council

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