How do I find the HS code for my product?

Describe your product in plain English — include the material, what it's used for, and how it's constructed. The AI searches 11,568 Australian HS codes and ranks the top 3 matches using the WCO General Interpretative Rules (GIR). For example, "stainless steel kitchen sink" returns 7324.10.00.

Is this legally binding?

No. This is an AI-assisted suggestion tool for informational purposes. For binding tariff advice, apply for a Tariff Advice from the Australian Border Force or consult a licensed customs broker. Classification ultimately rests with the ABF upon formal lodgement.

Can I use this for countries other than Australia?

The tool uses Australian HS codes from the ABF Working Tariff Schedule 3 (10-digit statistical codes). The first 6 digits follow the international Harmonized System and are shared across most countries, but rates and statistical extensions vary. For non-Australian tariffs, check your country's customs authority.

What are the General Interpretative Rules (GIR)?

The GIR are six rules defined by the World Customs Organization for classifying goods under the Harmonized System. GIR 1 (heading terms and notes) resolves most cases. GIR 2 covers incomplete goods and mixtures. GIR 3 handles goods classifiable under multiple headings. The AI cites which rules apply to your product.

How accurate is the AI classifier?

In testing, the correct code appears in the top 3 suggestions over 85% of the time when the description is clear and specific. Accuracy improves with detail — "15-inch laptop computer with detachable keyboard" classifies better than "computer". If the AI is uncertain, it asks a clarifying question.

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Find the Right HS Code Instantly.

Describe your product in plain English. Our AI searches 11,568 Australian HS codes and ranks the best matches using the General Interpretative Rules.

Product description

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How it works

Three steps from product description to classified HS code with duty rates.

Step 1

Describe your product

Type a plain-English description. Include material, use, and how it's made. The more specific, the more accurate the result.

Step 2

AI classifies it

Claude applies the WCO General Interpretative Rules (GIR 1-6) to rank the top 3 codes from 11,568 Australian HS codes.

Step 3

Calculate duties

See confidence scores and reasoning for each suggestion. Click through to calculate duty, GST, and total landed cost.

What is an HS code?

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international product classification framework maintained by the World Customs Organization. Over 200 countries use it to classify traded goods, determine duty rates, and collect trade statistics.

Australia uses 8 to 10-digit codes based on the HS. The first 6 digits are internationally standardised. Digits 7-8 are Australian subheading extensions, and digits 9-10 are statistical codes specific to the ABF Working Tariff Schedule 3.

Getting the code right matters. The wrong HS code means the wrong duty rate, which can result in underpayment (penalties and interest) or overpayment (money left on the table). The ABF can audit classifications up to 5 years after importation.

Example: Stainless steel kitchen sinks

Chapter

Articles of iron or steel

7324

Heading

Sanitary ware and parts thereof, of iron or steel

7324.10

Subheading

Sinks and wash basins, of stainless steel

7324.10.00

10-digit code

Statistical code for customs declaration

General duty rate: 5%. Free under ChAFTA (China), RCEP, AANZFTA, and 14 other FTAs.

Frequently asked questions

Need to classify shipping documents at scale?

StarShipper extracts HS codes, cargo descriptions, and shipment data from invoices, B/Ls, and packing lists — automatically.

Try StarShipper Free Open Tariff Calculator

Disclaimer: The StarShipper AI HS Classifier is an informational tool and does not constitute professional customs advice. Classification suggestions are AI-assisted and should be verified against the ABF Working Tariff Schedule 3 and relevant Chapter Notes. For binding tariff advice, contact the Australian Border Force or a licensed customs broker.

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