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If you’re sending international parcels, there’s a good chance you’ll have heard of commodity codes.
UK commodity codes are also called tariff codes or HS codes.
But what is a commodity code?
Commodity codes are internationally recognised reference numbers used to describe specific goods being imported into or exported out of the UK.
Why Are Commodity Codes Important?
Not only is it your legal responsibility to use the correct commodity code on your parcel, using the correct code will ensure your goods sail through customs.
The right code will help you pay the right amount of Customs Duty and import VAT. Your commodity code will also let border officials know that your shipment is safe and legal.
Using the wrong commodity code can cause delays to your shipment. You might also have to pay penalties, fines, and surcharges. Incorrect classifications can also cause you to overpay duties and taxes which can be difficult to claim back retrospectively.
How do I Find a Commodity Code?
When you ship with Parcel2Go, we make it easy to find the right commodity code for your package.
We've integrated our commodity code look up tool into the order journey to make it easy to classify the items you’re sending.
You’ll be able to choose from 6 of the most commonly used commodity codes to classify what’s in your parcel. If you can’t find what you need within these, you’ll be able to manually select your code.
We make it as easy as possible to find the right commodity code for your items during the booking process, but some items are harder to classify than others. If you need more help, you can read through an example of how to manually select your commodity code on our International Shipping Hub.
You can also find out more helpful information about commodity codes and how to classify your items on the gov.uk website.
Are Import and Export Commodity Codes the Same?
You will need to use commodity codes for goods that you import and export.
The good news is that commodity codes are the same across the world, so the code for a specific item will be the same whether you are importing or exporting.
How Many Digits in a Commodity Code?
A commodity code can vary from between six to twelve digits. Confusing? Don’t worry, at Parcel2Go, we make it easy for you to look up and classify your goods.
Do Commodity Codes Need to be 10 Digits?
No, commodity codes don’t always need to be 10 digits. The codes can vary anywhere between 6 and 12 digits. As long as you have classified your items correctly, the code you select during the booking process will help your parcels sail through customs.
Get a Shipping Quote
With services available from the UK’s most trusted parcel couriers, finding the cheapest prices and the highest quality service has never been easier with Parcel2Go. Get a quote today to see how much your business could save or register with us and start using our Smart Send tool.
