ShipTime’s automated HS Code feature simplifies cross-border shipping by generating Harmonized System (HS) Codes for your products directly from your product descriptions. This speeds up customs clearance, improves accuracy, and reduces the risk of shipment delays.


Currently, automated HS Codes are available for select carriers, including DHL, and appear on the International Details page when supported.


What is an HS Code?


HS (Harmonized System) Codes are standardized numerical identifiers developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for classifying traded products. Every product type is assigned a unique code that customs agencies use globally to classify items crossing borders, determine duties and taxes, and enforce trade regulations.

Breaking Down an HS Code

Example: HS Code: 8517.12.00.00

  • 85 – Chapter: Electrical machinery

  • 17 – Heading: Telephone equipment

  • 12 – Subheading: Smartphones

  • 00.00 – Further classification for specific features or variations

These codes are essential for customs to understand what’s in your package and how it should be taxed or regulated.

Why HS Codes Are Critical in International Shipping


Customs Clearance: Facilitates hassle-free passage through border inspections.

Duties & Taxes: Ensures correct tariff calculations, factoring in current trade agreements and regulations.

Regulatory Compliance: Assists in adhering to import/export laws, including sanctions and embargoes.

Risk Mitigation: Lowers the risk of penalties, shipment delays, or customs rejections.

Trade Harmonization: Promotes consistency in global trade practices for smoother cross-border transactions.


Steps to obtain your HS Codes


1. In Quote & Ship, proceed to the International Details page. Enter the description in the product description field.



2. As you type in the description, the HS Code field will start to auto-populate. Once you complete the description, the final HS Code will appear in the HS Code field.  Repeat for each item in your shipment



3. Complete all other necessary international detail elements and then click Finalize & Pay to proceed.



Prefer to use your own code? If you're familiar with the code for your product, then you can type the HS code directly in the HS code field. 


ShipTime’s Commitment to Smarter Shipping


With this automated HS Code feature, ShipTime continues to lead the way in simplifying cross-border logistics. Combined with our upfront duties and taxes estimates, discounted brokerage fees, and partnerships with trusted couriers like DHL, FedEx, UPS, and Canada Post, we’re making international shipping faster, more accurate, and more cost-effective.

Have questions about your HS Codes or customs paperwork? Our Heroic Support™ team is here to help - bilingual, knowledgeable, and available by phone, chat, or email.


About ShipTime:

Ship Smarter – with ShipTime, we are a true partner beyond just discounted rates with the Top National Couriers. We provide a best in class shipping platform packed with features and backed by our legendary Heroic Support™ team.


You can sleep easy with ShipTime’s best-in-class customer care. Our bilingual team is available by phone, live chat, or email Monday – Friday from 8:30AM to 8PM EST.