HS Codes and Import Cost Planning
Why accurate classification comes before a reliable landed-cost calculation.
Start with classification
The HS code influences duties, taxes, surveillance measures, permits and product-safety controls. Technical features and intended use matter; a commercial product name alone may not be sufficient.
Build the landed cost
Consider product price, freight, insurance, duties, import VAT, possible additional measures, port costs, customs clearance and domestic delivery. The chosen delivery term changes what is included in the seller’s price.
Verify before committing
Collect technical documents, confirm classification with a customs professional, check current trade-policy measures and conformity requirements, then calculate the complete landed cost.
Avoid fixed online tax assumptions
Rates and measures can change by product, origin and date. Use official sources and transaction-specific professional advice rather than a generic percentage found online.