Short answer
The HS code (Harmonised System) is the international classification number that determines which category a product falls into at customs, and it affects everything from the duty rate to the documents required. A wrong code carries risk in two directions: paying too much duty, or penalties and delays from an incorrect declaration. Breakers, attachments and spare parts can fall under different codes, and the same product can meet different tariff rates depending on trade agreements between countries. So the code is something to settle before ordering.
What the HS code determines
- Customs duty rate: the code determines which line of the importing country tariff schedule you fall on.
- Preferential tariff entitlement: where a free trade agreement exists between two countries, the reduced rate applies according to the product code.
- Required documents: some codes require a conformity certificate, a certification or prior authorisation.
- Statistics and quota: some product groups may be subject to quantity restrictions or monitoring.
Breakers, attachments and parts are separate
Hydraulic breakers, excavator attachments and spare parts are not assessed under the same code. A machine, a part of a machine and a tool with a separate function follow different classification logic.
That distinction matters in practice because one shipment can contain both attachments and spare parts; each line has to be declared under the right code. A single combined declaration may look convenient but creates a risk of correction and penalty later.
Where classification is disputed, the solution is obtaining binding tariff information from the customs authority of the importing country. That settles a potential disagreement in advance and is an official procedure in many countries.
Why we do not print the rates here
Duty rates vary with the importing country, the trade agreements in force and periodic regulation; any rate given on this page would become wrong quickly. Confirm the correct rate from the current tariff schedule of the importing country or from your customs broker. On the product code itself, you can write to us.
Document preparation
- Commercial invoice: product description, quantity, unit and total value, delivery term and origin must be clear.
- Packing list: how many packages, at what dimensions and weight; this list governs during physical inspection at customs.
- Certificate of origin: if a preferential tariff is to be claimed, the document type the relevant agreement requires is needed.
- Transport document: the bill of lading or waybill must suit the delivery term.
- Country-specific documents: some markets require pre-shipment conformity inspection or product registration; these cannot be remedied afterwards and are planned from the start.
Common mistakes
An inadequate product description on the invoice is the most common cause of delay. A general phrase such as "spare parts" makes classification impossible for the customs officer and leads to samples being requested. The description should state clearly what the product is and where it is used.
The second mistake is taking the code from the supplier and using it without verification. The exporting and importing country codes match in the first six digits, but the following digits vary by country; the final code has to be determined by the importer.
The third is not being aware of a preferential tariff entitlement. If an agreement exists between the two countries and the required proof of origin was not issued, the reduction earned is lost and recovering it afterwards is usually not possible.