Understanding Tariff Codes (HS Codes)
Every product in the world is assigned a tariff code (also known as an HS code) that helps customs identify what the item is and decide whether any duty or tax applies. Everything from a simple metal chair to a die-cast toy car has its own code.
Providing a tariff code isn’t compulsory when you ship a personal item, but it can speed up customs processing and sometimes reduce the tax your recipient may need to pay. It simply helps customs understand your shipment more accurately.
How Tariff Codes Work
Tariff codes follow a global system called the Harmonised System (HS). A full code is usually 8 to 10 digits, and the structure works like this:
First 2 digits – The broad product category (e.g., clothing, electronics)
First 4 digits – A more specific sub-category
First 6 digits – The globally recognised classification
Last 2–4 digits – Extra detail used by individual countries to fine-tune duty rules
For example: 91011100 → Wristwatches, electrically operated, with mechanical display only.
Even small changes in a product (e.g., material, size, intended use) can change the code.
Using Our Tariff Code Lookup (Best for Consumers)
We provide a simple tariff code tool on our customs wizard page that covers the most common consumer items. It’s designed to help you quickly find a code that is close enough for personal, low-value shipments.
If your item isn’t listed exactly—don’t worry. For personal shipments, choosing the closest reasonable match (e.g., “trousers” instead of “shorts,” or “swimwear” instead of “bikini”) is acceptable and usually makes no practical difference to duty on small parcels.
This level of precision is mainly important for businesses shipping large quantities, where even small differences can affect commercial duty rates.
Note: This does not mean that using a tariff code that’s close (but not exactly matching) to the item your shipping will never cause an issue, but generally for personal items it does not cause an issue, however it’s your decision whether you want to look into the exact code for every item or not.
Need a More Specific Code? Use the HMRC Lookup Tool
If you can’t find your product or want a more detailed match (for example, identifying the exact tariff code for something specific like a bikini), you can use the official HMRC commodity code lookup.
This tool covers thousands of categories and lets you search or browse by type of goods.
However, be aware that the HMRC system can be very detailed and sometimes confusing, which is why our simplified lookup is usually better for everyday consumer shipments.
Summary
Tariff codes help customs identify your item and apply the correct duty
Our tariff lookup covers the most common consumer goods and is usually sufficient for personal parcels
If your item isn’t listed or you need exact classification, you can use the official HMRC tool
Precision is far more important for business shipments than occasional personal packages