Classification

You need to provide your goods commodity code when importing it. To identify the product code, you need to know how to classify a product.

What are commodity codes?

All goods must have a commodity code. The commodity code is the basis for how much customs duty, taxes and other charges you owe, and is also used for import statistics purposes. The commodity code is used when declaring imported goods.
Commodity codes for imports consist of ten digits. The four first digits are known as the HS number. HS stands for Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, and is a system that is used by most countries in the world for customs purposes and international trade statistics.
As an importer, you are responsible for classifying your product correctly. This applies even if you imply an agent.

It is important to classify correctly. A correct classification ensures the following:

1. That you pay the correct amount of customs duty and taxes;
2. That you comply with import and export regulations;
3. That you contribute to accurate trade statistics.
   

Finding your commodity code in Tulltaxan (TARIC)

Tulltaxan (TARIC) is a free and web-based query service. There are more than 15 000 commodity codes for different types of goods. The goods are classified systematically in chapters organised by usage or material.

When you have a commodity code for your goods you can see information that is linked to the goods in Tulltaxan (TARIC), for example, if you need to pay customs duty or other taxes or charges for your goods. You can also see if you need a permit or a licence to import the goods.

Information about Tulltaxan (TARIC).

Find your goods in Tulltaxan (TARIC).

Binding tariff information for goods that are hard to classify

If it is difficult to classify your goods you can apply for Binding Tariff Information (B.T.I.). Swedish Customs issues the information and it is valid for three years.

Binding tariff information (BTI

Learn more

Swedish Customs offers many opportunities to learn more about classification.

Introduction to classification

Designed for those who want to understand classification, this long-distance course is offered free of charge.

Find out more and register for an introduction course about classification (in Swedish).

Classifying goods, step I

This two-day course provides insights on how to classify different goods and use Tulltaxan (TARIC).

Find out more and register for the course Classification of goods, step 1 (in Swedish).