tariff code directory

Tariff code directory

A shipment’s tariff code (or HS code) is the numerical code that is used to classify it for the sake of import, export and trade statistics. Every product and raw material in the world can be classified under a tariff code. Because tariff codes are based on an international system, Customs departments from different countries can classify and control goods the same way. This international system is called the Harmonised, or HS, System.

Before you import or export a shipment, you will need to know the tariff (HS) code for all the goods contained in the shipment. The tariff code(s), will determine the duties, levies and regulations applicable to your shipment.

Use this tariff code directory to learn how tariff codes work, and under which code your goods should be classified:

The structure of a tariff code

Tariff codes are internationally identical up to the first 6 digits. Thereafter each country my subdivide their codes depending on how specifically they want to regulate a type of import or export.

Each country’s tariff codes can be found in their tariff book. The South African tariff book is hosted and maintained by SARS Customs, but you can access it via our tariff code directory below. 

The first 2 digits of a tariff code refer to the chapter in the tariff book it falls under. The first 4 digits are called the tariff heading and represent a broad category of products. A full South African tariff code is made of 8 digits and a 9th check digit. This code represents a specific product or commodity. Below you can see what a tariff code would typically look like:

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It is important that you use the correct tariff or HS code to declare imported and exported goods as the duty tax payable is linked to it. Using the wrong code could therefore make a big impact on the cost of your goods. Additionally, using the wrong code could results in Customs clearing delays and/or Customs charging hefty penalties.

For importers the easiest way to get the correct international (6-digit) tariff code is to ask their supplier. The supplier needs to put the relevant code on all their export documents and will have made the effort to get the correct one.

To get the full South African code and determine the duty rate applicable to your import, or to classify your goods for export you may consult our tariff code directory using the following steps:

Tariff code directory

Step 1. Consult the Schedule 1 Chapter Index

The South African tariff book is broken into various schedules listing different types of taxes and rebates. Schedule 1 Part 1 contains the Ordinary Customs (import) Duty listings and it is the only schedule which shows all the South African tariff codes according to Chapter. The Schedule 1 Chapter Index lists the chapters we can find in Schedule 1 Part 1.

Consult the index to determine in which chapter your goods will most likely be listed.

Click here to to view the Schedule 1 Chapter Index

Step 2. Find your chapter in Schedule 1 Part 1

Schedule 1 Part 1 is an intimidating document if you’re not sure what you are looking for, but since you know which chapter you want, simply scroll down until you find it, or type “Control F” on our keyboard and type your chapter number into the search box that appears at the top of your screen.

Here’s an example showing the start of Chapter 33 and a search box:

Tariff book search
Click here to find your chapter in Schedule 1 Part 1

Step 3. Read your chapter notes

At the start of each chapter you’ll find chapter notes. You can see the notes for Chapter 33 in the image above. These notes contain exceptions and other important information regarding the goods included in the chapter. Depending on the nature of your goods, the notes may direct you to a different chapter in Schedule 1 Part 1.

Step 3. Read the article descriptions in your chapter

All the tariff classifications in your chapter fall under general article descriptions that each have a 4 digit tariff heading.

Below the general description you’ll find more specific article descriptions with a 5 or 6 digit code. This is a subheading.

Below these you may find even more specific descriptions that are called subdivisions and have 8 digits.

Read the tariff headings, subheadings and subdivisions to determine the description most applicable to your goods. You may find more than one description relevant to your goods. In this case it is advisable to have a professional tariff classification report done. Click here to enquire about our tariff code classification service.

Tariff book structure

Step 4. Take note of your tariff code

The subdivision (8 digit code) next to the article description that most accurately describes your goods is your tariff code. If your subheading (6 digit code) does not contain subdivisions, you may substitute the 7th and 8th digits of your code with 00.

The number in the CD (check digit) column next to your article description should be written at the end of your tariff code in brackets. The check digit is a uniquely South African number used for internal checks by SARS.

Still not confident you have the correct tariff code?

This tariff code directory serves merely as a guide. Trade Logistics does not take any liability for any incorrect interpretation of this information because we don’t know your product like you do.

For a more thorough insight into tariff code classification, you can either sign up for our online training course in HS codes and tariff code determination, or get a professional tariff classification report done.

Get online training in tariff classification Get a tariff classification report

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