About classification codes
If you import or export goods into or out of the Customs Union, you must classify those goods for customs purposes. Every product has a specific classification code, otherwise known as a commodity code.
This classification code determines the amount of Customs Duty you will pay on imported goods.
You can use the
UK Global Tariff to classify your goods to the appropriate code that you will need to import or export your goods.
You will also be able to view the following material in the UK Global Tariff:
- suspension of duties
- tariff quotas
- tariff preferences
- anti-dumping measures
UK Global Tariff code changes
Classification code changes can happen at any time during the year with little notice. You can check to see if your classification codes will change in the UK Global Tariff by changing the reference date.
Classifying your goods on gov.uk
Get help with a difficult classification
If you still cannot find the right commodity code for your goods, you can contact HMRC for advice or for a decision on your goods. You can do this in two ways.
Informal advice
You can use
HMRC's Tariff Classification Service to get non-legally binding classification advice. HMRC will respond to your email within 5 working days. Use this method for a quick and informal decision.
Formal legally binding decision
You can apply for a
Binding Tariff Information decision. This is a legally binding decision on the commodity code to use for your goods and can take between 30 and 60 days to be processed. Use this method if:
- your goods are hard to classify and informal advice is inappropriate for you or your business
- your goods are a new type
- you need a longer lasting and legally binding decision for your goods
World Customs Organisation
Other material about classifying your goods for customs purposes is available from the
World Customs Organisation.
Trader and personal import guidance
Traders
Where goods are imported from a place outside the Customs Union by a GST registered trader or Approved General Importer, a declaration will need to be submitted by the trader by logging into their account on the
Customs declaration and payment website. The below guidance notes will assist with the declaration process.
Guide for businesses - Third Country imports
Where goods are imported from within the Customs Union, the below guidance notes will assist with the declaration process.
Guide for businesses - UK imports
Declarations can be made in advance of the arrival of goods in order to speed up the customs clearance process. The below guidance notes will assist with this process.
Third Country Pre-arrival Declaration Guide
UK Pre-arrival Declaration Guide
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