Harmonized Codes are internationally recognized codes to classify an item for tax purposes. Harmonized Codes (also referred to as Tariff Codes, TARIC, Customs Tariffs, Harmonized Tariff Codes, and Harmonized System Codes) expedite the shipping process for international orders. Once an order reaches an international border, a country's customs office uses these codes to identify the goods and then assess taxes, duties, and fees for what you are shipping.
Most destination countries use the Harmonized Code system, while a few countries require the description instead. It is best practice to include both the Harmonized Code and a detailed description when shipping internationally. While it is not always required, using Harmonized Codes for your international shipments will:
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Help your packages move through customs more quickly
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Help to ensure correct taxation on your exported products
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Help to minimize the chances of loss of your products
As of September 1, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service will require all international commercial shipments to include a six-digit Harmonized System (HS) code on customs declarations for each item, regardless of mail class.
The HS code system, created by the World Customs Organization, is used by customs authorities worldwide to classify goods and assess tariffs. This update aligns USPS mailing standards with new Universal Postal Union (UPU) regulations, also taking effect Sept 1, that require all member countries to enforce six-digit HS codes for commercial goods.
The ShipStation API process for shipping internationally to EU member countries is much the same as shipping any international package, however, there are some specific requirements for harmonization codes and customs descriptions to keep in mind.
Beginning February 2nd, 2026 the European Union will have enhanced customs descriptions requirements. The new requirements will include a list of Stop words, which are generic descriptions that do not allow customs authorities to clearly identify the nature of the goods being imported. Using these words on their own increases the risk of delays and rejections under ICS2. They may only be used if incorporated into a clear and accurate product description.
Newly added stop words include:
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Aid products
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Comercial
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Consumption
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Ensemble
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Fake
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Item
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Headwear
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Promotional
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Oddments
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N/A
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Miscellaneous
Tips for Clear Custom Descriptions
A good description is simple and specific. It should enable easy identification of the goods and accurate HS code classification. Avoid brand names, colors, serial numbers, or internal product codes. Descriptions that are too generic or overly technical are considered insufficient. Your customs description should answer the following questions:
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What is the Product?
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What are the Products essential characteristics?
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What is the Product made from?
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How is it presented to customers?
Creating clear customs descriptions for your products will help ensure your shipments move smoothly through customs.
As of March 1, 2023, the European Union has implemented these requirements for shipments entering their member countries.
These changes are part of the EU's ICS2 reform and apply to all shipments, no matter which carrier you ship with. While ShipStation API will not prevent you from creating your label without entering an HS Code or more detailed item descriptions, failure to comply with these requirements could result in delays to your shipment as well as fines or penalty fees.
Code Requirements:
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Harmonized System Codes (HS Codes): All shipments now require Harmonized System Codes (HS Codes) for all items in a shipment.
For a full list of Harmonization codes:
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🇺🇸 Go to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule page from the U.S. International Trade Commission.
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🇨🇦 Go to the Customs Tariff page from the Canada Border Services Agency.
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🇬🇧 Go to the Trade Tariff Service page from Gov.UK.
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🇦🇺 Go to the Current Tariff Classification page from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Australia uses an eight-digit code to classify goods for export. The first six digits align with the international classification and the last two digits are specific to Australian exports. The classifications are subject to change so you need to keep up-to-date. The Australian Harmonized Export Commodity Classification (AHECC) is usually updated every January and July. Classifications can be found on the ABS Website.
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🇳🇿 Go to the Customs Tariffs page from the New Zealand Customs Service.
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🇫🇷 🇩🇪 Go to the TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Union) page from the European Commission Taxation and Customs Union.
