What trade classification system assigns six-digit codes to internationally traded products?

The Harmonized System assigns six-digit codes to internationally traded products.

The World Customs Organization developed the system, formally called the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System. It entered into force in 1988 and provides a common language for classifying goods at customs.

The first six digits are harmonized internationally, while many countries add extra digits for more detailed national tariff and statistical purposes. This means the same product can have different full tariff numbers in different countries even though its six-digit international heading is shared.

The Harmonized System is used for customs tariffs, trade statistics, rules of origin and some regulatory controls. It is not a shipping document or a measure of a product’s monetary value.