HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits

A heads up for anyone using the CP website to look up HS codes. When testing this morning I got a "Service not available" error message with several attempts using 2 different browsers. According to the CP website the only status issue (partial) was for creating US labels with Snapship. As a backup lookup for HTS codes you can use the US gov site at: 

 

https://hts.usitc.gov/

 

If you are looking for more information and have the patience regarding Schedule B. It will with some reading assist with classifying items that are a little more difficult to pin down. See included explanation(s).

 

@musicyouneed FYI

In doing some research the code used for sound recording on cassette tape the HTS code for shipping to the USA and UK matched. Important to note those numbers can and do vary depending on the item. See country specific notes farther down. 

 

8523.29.40.10  USA

8523.29.40.10   UK

 

https://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/schedules/b/2025/index.html

Schedule B is a 10-digit code used by the U.S. Census Bureau to classify goods exported from the United States. It is based on the first six digits of the Harmonized System (HS) code and includes four additional digits for statistical purposes. Exporters must use the correct Schedule B code when filing export documents. 

 

****Yes, Canadian exporters to the USA should be using Schedule B codesSchedule B codes are used by the U.S. Census Bureau to monitor US exports and are essential for compliance with U.S. export regulations and for facilitating trade tracking and statistical reporting. While Canadian exporters will likely be using the Canadian Customs Tariff system, U.S. exporters, including those in Canada, must use Schedule B when exporting to the United States. 

 

Reasoning:

  • Accuracy:
    Using the correct Schedule B number ensures accurate classification of exports and avoids potential penalties or delays. (Shipping to USA)
    • Tariff Determination:
      Schedule B codes help determine import duty rates for the goods being exported to the U.S.
       
      Re: Placeholders
      Yes, if there's no further extension needed for an HS code, you can use "00" for the last two digits. This is common practice when the specific subheading or statistical suffix isn't specified. 
    Example:
    If the HS code for a product is 8517.12, and there's no need for further statistical data, you would use 8517.12.00
     
    In essence, even though Canadian exporters may be familiar with the Canadian Customs Tariff system, they must use Schedule B codes when exporting goods to the United States to comply with U.S. regulations and facilitate the smooth flow of trade. 

 

  • Country-Specific Extensions:
    While the first six digits are universal, many countries add additional digits to the HS code to create their own specific Harmonized Tariff Schedules (HTS). These HTS codes are unique to each country and may be used for customs purposes, such as collecting specific taxes or enforcing trade regulations. 

 

Unsure anyone else is having the same issue but the box you fill in (chrome) for HS codes using eBay labels needs to be expanded so you can easily confirm the number you have typed in is correct. You have to tab left or right to view completely. devon@ebay  Fortunately it prints out fine to label. Many of the current windows have been recently modified to be too small. 

 

Disclaimer: Information above was accurate at time of its writing. Your search results may vary. 

 

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits

Checked the schedule B and found postcards but unable to find anything for paper sewing patterns. Any guesses?

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits


@vintagenorth wrote:

Checked the schedule B and found postcards but unable to find anything for paper sewing patterns. Any guesses?


@vintagenorth 

Sounds like one of these will work. Now when the choices are tricky I am doing a google search and including hts in the search bar.

 

The HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code for sewing patterns in the US is generally 6307.90.98.50 or 4823.90.98.50. However, it's important to note that the most accurate code can depend on the specific type of pattern (e.g., lithographed, printed, etc.) and whether it's considered "made-up" (like a pattern on fabric). 

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits

@lotzofuniquegoodies 

Thanks, I have found the correct HST code. It is 4901.10.00.00, very similar to the one on the Canada Post site except for the last two digits. Luckily, most paper sewing patterns are printed/manufactured in the US. I do also have a few from the UK and Germany.

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits

Sewing  patterns are 4823.90

 

If you are shipping to the USA, note that most patterns are Made in the USA. Make sure that is changed on the shipping label, which defaults to Canada.

Burda patterns are made in Germany now, but older ones were printed in the Netherlands.

 

@vintagenorth 

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits


@vintagenorth wrote:

@lotzofuniquegoodies 

Thanks, I have found the correct HST code. It is 4901.10.00.00, very similar to the one on the Canada Post site except for the last two digits. Luckily, most paper sewing patterns are printed/manufactured in the US. I do also have a few from the UK and Germany.


@vintagenorth 

Why this is so much up to interpretation and MAIN reason why eBay etc are NOT qualified to assess duties and customs officials are. Some of the incorrect "guesses" for HS codes will be pinned down to honest mistakes and rest to sellers trying to game the system. All we can do is try to get as close as possible when it comes to researching and looking up codes.

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Re: HS Code Lookup CP May 4, 2025 and other HS tidbits

A few HS codes I've used recently:

4911.10   advertising pages, print ads

4901.99  books

9503.00  plastic model kits

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