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HS code finder

Find the Harmonized System code of a chemical by its name, CAS number, a keyword from the tariff text or the first digits of a code. Each result links to the code page with world trade data.

Start typing to search the HS 2022 nomenclature and the chemicals on CompoundList. Chemical names need at least four letters.

How HS codes are built

The Harmonized System (HS) is the product nomenclature of the World Customs Organization, used by more than 200 countries for tariffs and trade statistics. The first six digits are the same everywhere:

LevelDigitsExample
Chapter229, organic chemicals
Heading42914, ketones and quinones
Subheading62914.11, acetone
National tariff line8 to 10Added by each country, such as ITC-HS in India or the HTS in the United States

Classification follows the General Interpretative Rules. Single, chemically defined compounds go to chapter 28 (inorganic) or 29 (organic). Mixtures and preparations usually fall in later chapters, such as 32 for paints and pigments, 34 for surfactants and 38 for miscellaneous chemical products. Salts, esters and hydrates are generally classified with their parent compound unless the text says otherwise.

The chemical results come from CompoundList's data pipeline, which matches chemicals to codes by exact name in the nomenclature or by structure rules. Treat them as a starting point and confirm the final code with your customs broker or a binding ruling, because the duty you pay depends on it.

Worked example

The same steps the calculator follows, done by hand

You want to export acetone, CAS 67-64-1.

  1. 1
    Acetone is a single, chemically defined organic compound, so it belongs in chapter 29, organic chemicals.
  2. 2
    It is a ketone, which points to heading 2914, ketones and quinones.
  3. 3
    Within 2914, acetone has its own subheading, 2914.11. Searching for acetone or 67-64-1 above returns the same code.
  4. 4
    Your country adds two to four more digits for its tariff. Use the six digit code to compare trade data between countries.

Chemical chapters of the HS

Browse codes, trade flows and chemicals chapter by chapter

Frequently asked questions

What is an HS code?
A six digit number from the Harmonized System that customs authorities use to classify goods, apply duties and record trade statistics. The same six digits mean the same product in almost every country.
What is the difference between HS, HTS and ITC-HS codes?
HS is the international six digit code. Countries extend it for their own tariffs: the United States uses the 10 digit HTS, India the 8 digit ITC-HS and the EU the 8 digit Combined Nomenclature. The first six digits stay the same.
Can the same chemical have different HS codes?
The pure compound has one code, but its form can change the classification. A mixture, a solution with additives, a product put up for retail sale or a pharmaceutical dose may be classified elsewhere. The intended use rarely matters for chapter 29 compounds.
How often do HS codes change?
The World Customs Organization updates the system about every five years. HS 2022 is in force and the next edition is due in 2028. Check that your documents use the edition your customs authority applies.

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