Tariff Classification and Management

Tariff Classification and Management Solutions for Imports (HTS) and Exports (Schedule B)

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the classification of goods is a major determinant of customs duties and taxes—and a regulatory requirement on both import (HTS) and export (Schedule B) documentation.

eCustoms’ Export Classification solutions from Visual Compliance delivers accurate harmonized tariff classification and duty rates through comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date schedules, regulations, rulings and other references. Coupled with easy navigation, powerful search tools, and presented in formats that make sense, it’s an indispensable solution for every organization concerned with landed costs and compliance.

Store and manage classifications in a comprehensive, collaborative classification management system

Finding the best tariff classification can be complicated, especially in the case of specialized products. And once all this research is done, you want to preserve the results and ensure that this HTS or Schedule B code is always used by your own personnel in all of your locations or divisions, as well as your customs broker(s) and other trade chain partners.

The CustomsIQ solution features an optional application that enables you to build and manage a centralized classified Item Master file. It supports multiple users, locations, companies and divisions, works seamlessly with Customs IQ, and can be integrated with your other Visual Compliance products, or your ERP and eCommerce technologies.

• Build and cross-reference item descriptions—via data entry or download

  A complete and accurate item description is essential for correct tariff classification. The solution lets you store the information you used to classify your items and justify your decisions in addition to the HTS, duty rates, units of measure, part numbers, vendor part numbers, origin, and preference with both producer and exporter designations, and much more. In addition, you can link and cross-reference documents containing detailed information, such as design specifications or customs rulings.Use in-built intelligent, powerful data entry screens, or load in all your parts from your ERP system or using files provided by your broker or supplier.

• Find your items tariff classification using our tariff's advanced tools

  Easily create and document accurate tariff classifications. A link to Customs IQ gives you access to the HTSUS plus rulings, and an extensive library of reference materials—everything you need to determine the correct HS code and duty rate.

• A secure collaborative workflow

  Because it’s web-based, you can work collaboratively across divisions, or even supply chain partners. Your broker or even your supplier can see the same items you do to help you build the most accurate information possible. Clearly defined roles ensure that each party only sees the information they should see and can do with it only what you want them to do. Items can be entered or changed and placed under suspension for review and acceptance by authorized personnel. An audit trail, including date and employee code, is kept for both the original classification and the review/acceptance.

• Maintain and review your tariff classifications

  Review your tariff classifications via a flexible set of reports. An optional Tariff Review Expert extends these reports to include comparison of your data with the government tariff to help you update your information and analyse the effect of tariff changes on your tariff classifications and duty rates. An Alerts Expert gives you email notifications of HS-based Tariff/legislative changes.

• Calculate and forecast landed costs

  A Landed Cost Expert lets you easily run landed cost calculations for any item and tariff treatment. Besides the duty calculated by the system, you can add a wide variety of charges such as brokerage, pre-shipment charges, freight etc.

For more information about our tariff classification software, visit the dedicated CustomsIQ pages, call toll-free 1-877-328-7866 and talk to one of our foreign trade compliance consultants, or send an email.

In today’s complex trading environment, proper tariff classification can depend on a myriad of U.S. and international trade laws, regulations, rulings, and a host of other references. Finding the best classification can be complicated, especially in the case of specialized products. A quick glance at recent Tariff Rulings will show that the classification practices can barely keep up with the flood of new materials and product ideas now appearing in the world marketplace. Determining the correct tariff classification for an item may require technical specifications from your supplier and advice from your broker, as well as extensive research in the HTSUS schedules, Rulings and other resources.

Taking on all sources alone can quickly develop into a massive headache of overpaid duties and improperly classified goods. It stands to reason that a solid, intuitive, and above all else accessible tariff classification solution is the remedy you need.

Correct, consistent, legally defensible tariff classifications are at the heart of import compliance. You are responsible for ensuring that proper HTS tariff classifications are used for all your imports, and Schedule B codes for your exports. You can’t afford tariff classification mistakes and inconsistencies resulting from a lack of systemic controls over tariff classification procedures.