To find the HTS code for an import, describe the product by what it is and does, locate the right chapter and heading in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, apply the legal notes and General Rules of Interpretation, narrow down to the 10-digit line, and check published CBP rulings for similar goods. The importer of record is responsible for the result, so confirm it with a licensed customs broker, or request a binding ruling for a new product.
Key Takeaways
- Classify by what the product is and does, not by its name.
- Read the legal notes and apply the General Rules of Interpretation in order.
- CBP has classified EV charging cables with connectors in 8544.42.9090.
- Confirm with a broker or a binding ruling before the first shipment.
A Six-Step Method
| Step | What you do | Tool | Output |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Describe | Write down what the product is, its materials, function and how it is used | Datasheet, photos, bill of materials | A plain technical description |
| 2. Find the heading | Search the schedule by function, not by marketing name | USITC HTS search | Candidate 4-digit headings |
| 3. Read the notes | Check section and chapter notes, which can include or exclude goods | HTSUS legal notes | Headings you can rule in or out |
| 4. Apply the GRIs | Use the General Rules of Interpretation in order to decide between headings | HTSUS General Rules of Interpretation | One heading |
| 5. Narrow to 10 digits | Pick the subheading, tariff line and statistical suffix | HTS search | A 10-digit number and its general rate |
| 6. Check rulings | Look for CBP rulings on similar products | CBP rulings (CROSS) | Support for your choice, or a reason to rethink |
The Rules That Decide Hard Cases
The General Rules of Interpretation sit at the front of the schedule. The first rule says classification is decided by the wording of the headings and the legal notes, so read them before relying on a keyword match. Later rules deal with unfinished articles, mixtures, goods that could fit two headings and sets. CBP’s Tariff Classification publication walks through how importers are expected to apply them with reasonable care.
Two habits prevent most mistakes. First, classify by function: a charger that converts power is treated differently from one that only switches it. Second, remember that the first six digits are international, but the last four are set by the US, so a supplier’s export code is a starting point, not an answer.
Worked Example: An EV Charging Cable
Suppose you import loose charging cables with a vehicle connector on one end, to be wired into charging stations after import.
- Describe: insulated copper conductors in a common jacket, rated at or below 1,000 V, fitted with a vehicle connector.
- Heading: 8544 covers insulated wire, cable and other insulated electric conductors, whether or not fitted with connectors.
- Narrow: 8544.42 is for conductors up to 1,000 V fitted with connectors; 8544.42.90 is the “other” line, with a 2.6% general rate in the current schedule.
- Check rulings: in ruling N337769 (2024), CBP classified CCS1, SAE and NACS charging cables in 8544.42.9090.
A complete charger with an attached cable is a different product and is classified as the charger, not the cable. Products of China can also owe Section 301 and possibly Section 232 copper duties, which are listed in Chapter 99 of the schedule. Your broker should confirm every layer.
Get It Right Before You Ship
For a new design, an importer can ask CBP for a binding ruling before the first shipment. Prepare a clear description, the datasheet, photos and your proposed code with reasons. Our guide to reading an EV charger datasheet shows which specifications matter, and why charging cables differ explains the construction details a classifier needs. For the full import process, see importing EV chargers into the US.
EVDANCE supplies datasheets, materials and wiring details for products such as the EV-AC04001U 40A J1772 portable charger so your broker can classify each item. Codes and rates here are as of October 2026; confirm with the current schedule and a licensed customs broker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use the code my supplier gives me?
Use it as a lead. The US importer of record is responsible for the final 10-digit code.
What if two headings both seem to fit?
Apply the General Rules of Interpretation in order. If it is still unclear, ask a broker or request a binding ruling.
Do rulings for other companies apply to me?
A ruling binds only the product described, but similar rulings show how CBP reasons.
Related Reading
- Importing EV Chargers Into the US: Customs, HTS and Section 301
- How to Read an EV Charger Datasheet: A Buyer’s Guide
- Are All EV Charging Cables the Same?
- NACS Portable EV Charger Sourcing Guide for US Importers
