UK commodity code checker
Check a UK commodity (HS) code step by step: the 10-digit structure, how to search the official UK Trade Tariff, common mistakes, and what to do when unsure.
Check a code in the official tariff
The UK Trade Tariff is the official source. We link to it rather than guess.
Our AI code finder only shows a code when it is confirmed in the live tariff; if the service is offline it says so instead of guessing.
What a UK commodity code looks like
A UK import commodity code has 10 digits. The first 6 are the international HS code shared by most countries; digits 7–8 are the UK tariff subheading; digits 9–10 add UK import detail. For example, in 6109 10 00 10, 61 is the chapter (knitted clothing), 6109 the heading (T-shirts and vests) and 6109 10 the cotton subheading.
1. Describe the product by what it is made of and what it does
Classification follows material, construction and function — not brand names. 'Women's knitted cotton T-shirt' finds the right chapter; 'summer top' does not.
2. Search the official UK Trade Tariff
Use the free UK Trade Tariff search from GOV.UK. Pick the section and chapter that match, then work down the headings until you reach a 10-digit commodity code (one with no further sub-headings).
3. Read the section and chapter notes
Notes at the top of each section and chapter can include or exclude goods. Many wrong codes come from skipping them.
4. Check the measures for your origin country
Open the code and select the country the goods come from. The page shows the third-country duty, any preferential rate, VAT rate, and extra measures such as anti-dumping duty or licences.
5. If you are still unsure, ask HMRC
HMRC offers classification guidance and, for certainty, an Advance Tariff Ruling that is legally binding. The importer is responsible for the code used on the declaration.
Common mistakes
- Using a supplier's export code without checking it — other countries' codes can differ after the first 6 digits.
- Using an 8-digit code for imports: GB import declarations need 10 digits.
- Classifying sets or multi-material goods without applying the General Rules of Interpretation.
- Ignoring origin: the same code can carry different duty for China, the USA or the EU.
Got a code? Work out the full cost
Enter the code, origin and price to see duty, import VAT, the money you need to pay out, and costs we could not calculate.
Official sources
General guidance only — not legal advice. Checked 19 October 2026.