What are the commodity code (HS code) changes from January 2022?

The commodity codes used worldwide are based upon the World Custom Organisation’s Harmonised System (HS), a type of classification system.

HS codes (also known as commodity codes) are crucial as they identify products to determine the correct amount of customs duty and taxes payable when goods cross international borders. HS codes can also highlight the need for licences or whether goods are covered by tariff quotas or anti-dumping duties.

You can view our commodity code explainer page for more detailed information on HS (commodity) codes. 

The HS system was introduced in 1988 and the 2022 update is known as the “seventh edition of the HS” and the first update to the HS and HS codes since 2017.

Failure to prepare for HS 2022 could lead to delays in moving goods across borders with the possibility of shipments being held and delayed by customs authorities.

The UK is yet to finalise how the changes in HS 2022 will impact its own commodity codes.

Businesses can use a correlation table provided by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to identify what changes have already been confirmed to UK commodity codes.

HMRC also provides an online facility to look up commodity codes, import duties, taxes and controls for those that need assistance.

The changes to HS (commodity) codes add further complexity at a time of new customs declarations and procedures being implemented by the United Kingdom (UK) government (including Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS)).

There are also a number of worldwide supply chain issues impacting the movement of goods internationally.

Now is a good time to review your customs procedures to ensure that your supporting data/information and customs documentation are accurate. You can hire a customs agent such as Tudor International Freight to act on your behalf or to assist you with your customs documentation.

If you have queries regarding customs documentation we can assist you. Contact us at Tudor International Freight, on 0333 1234 747 or email sales@tudorfreight.com.

About Us - Tudor International Freight

Established in Horsforth, Leeds, back in 1991, we are a logistics company who are experts in road, air and sea freight. We transport goods to most major cities, towns and suburbs across all 6 continents. We go over and above to ensure that our client’s products, goods and cargo are transported around the world safely and successfully. We are a family business, who are still based in Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire.