Enable Country-Specific HS Codes for Customs Control

Executive summary:

• Shopify Plus introduces country-specific HS codes.
• Merchants gain precise control over tariffs for each market.
• Customs compliance improves with detailed classifications.

What changed

Shopify Plus merchants can now assign Harmonized System (HS) codes unique to each country, enhancing control over how tariffs and customs duties are calculated. This new capability allows you to specify codes beyond the standard 6 digits, ensuring greater accuracy across diverse markets.

Why it matters

For Shopify Plus users, this feature reduces the risk of incorrect tariff estimation, resulting in more precise cost planning and compliance with international trade regulations. It helps avoid under or overpayment of duties, potentially leading to cost savings and legal compliance.

Role-specific impact

• Marketers: Improved market-specific pricing strategies by accounting for precise tariffs.
• Developers: Ensure seamless integration of the new HS codes into existing Shopify functions.
• Store admins: Manage and validate distinct HS codes for multiple markets efficiently.

Use-case example

Real-world scenario & metric

A business shipping to multiple countries like Germany and Canada can assign specific HS codes for each, ensuring tariffs are correctly calculated, leading to a 15% decrease in disputed charges.

Implementation checklist

1. Access your Shopify admin panel.
2. Navigate to the "Markets" section.
3. Enter and save HS codes for each target country.
4. Verify that the correct codes are being used in Managed Markets.
5. Monitor duty calculations for accuracy post-implementation.

FAQ

Q: Do I need to assign HS codes manually for each market?
A: Yes, to ensure tariff precision, manual entry for each country is recommended.

Q: What is the benefit of exceeding 6 digits in HS codes?
A: It enables more precise classification, ensuring better compliance and cost accuracy.

Resources

Read more about using HS codes on Shopify.

Need guidance? Talk to Makro.