AI-Powered HS Code Classification for Shopify

Automatically classify your products with the correct HS codes. Review, approve, and go live. Accurate classifications mean reliable duty and tax estimates at checkout.

AI-powered classification

Automatically classify your products with the correct HS codes based on titles, types, and tags.

Multi-country support

Classify products for all your destination countries with country-specific tariff codes.

Review and approve

Every classification requires your review before going live — you stay in control.

Manual entry available

Know the right code? Enter it manually for immediate approval — no AI review needed.

What Are HS Codes?

HS codes (Harmonized System codes) are internationally standardized 6-digit codes that classify traded products. The system is maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by over 200 countries. Customs authorities use HS codes to determine which duty rate applies to each product.

The 6-digit code is structured in three parts: the first 2 digits identify the chapter(e.g., 61 = knitted apparel), the next 2 identify the heading (e.g., 61.09 = t-shirts), and the final 2 identify the subheading (e.g., 6109.10 = cotton). Countries add additional digits for their own tariff schedules — the US uses 10-digit HTS codes, the EU uses 8-digit TARIC codes.

Getting HS codes right is critical for international e-commerce. An incorrect classification can mean paying a higher duty rate than necessary, or underpaying and facing penalties at customs. RateTell's AI classifies your products automatically — you review and approve before going live.

HS Code Examples

ProductHS CodeDescription
Cotton t-shirt6109.10Knitted cotton t-shirts, singlets
Leather shoes6403.99Footwear with leather uppers
Ceramic mug6912.00Ceramic tableware, kitchenware
Laptop8471.30Portable digital computers
Wristwatch9102.12Wrist-watches with opto-electronic display

Frequently Asked Questions

What are HS codes?

HS (Harmonized System) codes are internationally standardized 6-digit codes that classify traded products. Customs authorities use them to determine duty rates and trade restrictions.

How does the AI classify products?

RateTell's AI analyzes your product title, type, tags, vendor, and other metadata to suggest the appropriate HS code. It then finds the correct full tariff code for each destination country.

Do I need to verify the AI's suggestions?

Yes. All classifications require your review and approval before they're used at checkout. You can also manually enter HS codes if you already know them.

How do I look up an HS code?

Use RateTell's HS code lookup tool to search by product name or description. The AI suggests the most likely HS code based on your product information. You can also search the official WCO Harmonized System database.

How many products can I classify?

Classification limits depend on your plan: Standard (200/mo), Growth (500/mo), or Plus (1,000/mo). During the 14-day trial, you get 50 AI classifications.

What happens if I use the wrong HS code?

An incorrect HS code means wrong duty estimates. If you underpay, the carrier may charge you the difference. If you overpay, your prices look higher than competitors. RateTell's AI helps you get it right the first time.

Ready to Automate HS Code Classification?

Start your 14-day free trial. AI classification with merchant review and approval.

Learn more: HS Codes Explained · DDP Shipping · Duties & Taxes