In shipping, the HTS code is the tariff number that identifies your goods on import paperwork. It appears on the US entry, where it sets duty, and in the Importer Security Filing for ocean cargo, where at least six digits are required. It is usually shown on the commercial invoice and packing list too. For goods leaving the US, the export equivalent is the Schedule B number. Each document has its own rules about who supplies the code and how many digits are needed.
Key Takeaways
- The HTS code appears on the invoice, packing list, ISF and US entry.
- The ISF needs at least six digits; the entry needs all ten.
- Schedule B is the export counterpart; China’s export code follows China’s system.
- Keep codes consistent across every document.
Where the Code Appears, Document by Document
| Document | Code used | Digits | Who usually provides it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial invoice | HS or HTS code | Often 6 to 10 | Seller, confirmed by the buyer’s broker |
| Packing list | Same as invoice | Same as invoice | Seller |
| Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2), ocean only | HTSUS number | At least 6, up to 10 | Importer or its broker |
| US entry and entry summary | HTSUS statistical number, plus any Chapter 99 lines | 10 | Importer of record or its licensed broker |
| Export declaration in China | China’s own tariff code | China’s format | Exporter or its agent |
| US export filing | Schedule B or HTS number | 10 | US exporter |
The ISF: Six Digits Before the Ship Sails
For cargo arriving by vessel, the Importer Security Filing has applied since January 26, 2009. The regulation, 19 CFR 149.3, lists the commodity HTSUS number as one of the importer’s data elements. It must be given to at least six digits and may be given to ten, and it must be linked to the manufacturer and country of origin at the line level. CBP warns that failure to comply can mean penalties, more inspections and delays.
This is where many first-time importers stumble. The ISF is filed before loading, so the code has to be known early. Give your broker the product description and expected code as soon as the order is placed.
The Entry: Ten Digits That Set the Duty
On the US entry, the full 10-digit HTSUS number determines the general duty rate and trade statistics. Additional duties, such as Section 301 on goods from China, are reported with extra Chapter 99 numbers on the same line. The importer of record is responsible for the code even when a broker files it.
For exports from the US, the Census Bureau maintains Schedule B, a parallel 10-digit system used for export statistics. Its first six digits match the international HS. Chinese export paperwork follows China’s own tariff system, so the digits after the first six on a factory’s documents may not match the US code.
Keep Every Document Consistent
- Use the same description, origin and code on the invoice, packing list, ISF and entry.
- Do not copy a code from a past shipment if the product design has changed.
- List each product type on its own invoice line, since chargers, adapters and cables may classify differently.
- Keep records of how you chose each code.
If you still need to work out the code itself, see our US import overview and the classification tips in how to read a charger datasheet. Document quality also depends on the supplier; our pre-shipment inspection guide covers checks before goods leave the factory.
EVDANCE prepares invoices and packing lists with one line per model and clear product descriptions, for chargers such as the EV-ACS4005T 40A NACS portable charger. Rules here are as of October 2026; confirm requirements with a licensed customs broker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HTS code required on a commercial invoice?
It is common practice and helps your broker, but the binding code is the one the importer declares on the entry.
How many digits does the ISF need?
At least six; up to ten may be provided.
Is a Schedule B number the same as an HTS code?
No. Schedule B is for US exports and HTS for US imports. They share the first six HS digits.
Related Reading
- Importing EV Chargers Into the US: Customs, HTS and Section 301
- Pre-Shipment Inspection and AQL Sampling for EV Charger Orders
- Private-Label EV Chargers: Packaging, Labeling and Manuals
