Selling to the US: how do I find my product's HTS code and duty rate? in detail
Answer
Use the US International Trade Commission's official site hts.usitc.gov: type an English product name or code in the search box to see the 10-digit HTS code and the duty rate columns. The current edition is 2026 HTS Revision 21 (published 9 October 2026). Additional duties on Chinese goods (Section 301 and others) are listed separately in the site's "China Tariffs" files, so don't stop at the base rate.
- Applies to
- Sellers exporting or selling to the US who need to work out duty.
Dear friend,
Welcome! This letter sets out what you need to know, plainly and in order.
Official tools
| Use | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Find code and rate | The HTS sets the tariff rates and statistical categories for all goods imported into the US | |
| Help and training | Classification FAQs, interactive training, "Ask Us a Question" | |
| Disputed classification | Search past CBP classification rulings |
How to look it up (4 steps)
- Open hts.usitc.gov and search an English product name, such as "cotton t-shirt".
- Drill down to the closest 10-digit code.
- Read the rate in the "General" column (we did not read the official wording on this; see Unknowns).
- Then check additional duties on Chinese goods: the China Tariffs files on the same site, or CBP notices.
What you can do yourself
- Look up the code before quoting, and show the base rate and China-specific duties separately.
- If unsure, search CROSS for past rulings on similar goods.
- Put the code on your invoice and packing list, and keep it consistent with your forwarder.
When to use a licensed professional
- If a product could fall under two codes with very different rates, talk to a US Licensed Customs Broker and, if needed, request a CBP binding ruling.
Check before you pay, and warning signs
- If someone classifies goods for you, ask whether they take responsibility for a wrong code.
- Advice to "declare a lower-duty code" is a warning sign; misclassification leads to back duty and penalties.
Unknowns
- The official wording that the MFN rate is the "General" column (General Note 3): not read this time; requested.
- The China Tariffs files: not opened this time.
Sources for this letter
Wishing you good business,
The mouwise team
Checked 2026-10-26
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