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Importing into the EU: Customs Duties

Rules and procedures on importing products into the EU, tariff information, information on customs duties

To determine your product's classification code and estimate customs duties for imports into the European Union (EU), you will need to consider the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS) codes, the Combined Nomenclature (CN) codes, and the integrated Tariff of the European Union (TARIC) codes.


Here is a step-by-step guide to this process:

  1. Identify the HS code for your product: HS codes are 6-digit product classification codes used by members of the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify goods for customs purposes. The first two digits of an HS code identify the chapter the goods are classified in, the next two digits identify the headings within that chapter, and the last two digits identify the sub-headings within that chapter.
  2. Determine the CN code for your product: The CN is a tool for classifying goods that meets the requirements of the Common Customs Tariff and the EU's external trade statistics. CN codes are eight digits, consisting of the six-digit HS code and the two-digit CN subheadings.
  3. Check the TARIC database for additional classification and measures: The TARIC database provides information on trade policy and tariff measures that apply to specific goods in the EU. TARIC codes are a minimum of ten digits, consisting of the eight-digit CN code and the two-digit TARIC subheadings. You can find the TARIC database on the European Commission’s website (https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/taric/taric_consultation.jsp).


To use the TARIC database, you will need to enter the HS code or product description for your product in the search field. The search results will provide you with the applicable TARIC code and information on any trade policy or tariff measures that apply to your product.


You can then use this information to determine the applicable customs duties and any other trade-related requirements for importing your product into the EU.


It's important to note that the TARIC database is regularly updated to reflect changes in trade policy and tariff measures, so it's important to check the database for the most current information on your product's TARIC code and any applicable measures.


To determine the TARIC code of your product, you can use the EU Tariffs Database (http://madb.europa.eu/madb/euTariffs.htm) and select "Find my product code." You may also be able to determine the TARIC code using the 6-digit HS code provided by your supplier.


If you are unable to determine the TARIC code using these resources, you may want to consider seeking assistance from a customs broker or classification service provider.


It's important to correctly determine the TARIC code for your product, as this code is used to identify the trade policy and tariff measures that apply to specific goods in the European Union (EU).


Incorrectly classifying your product can result in incorrect customs duties and other trade-related issues, so it's important to ensure that you have the correct TARIC code before importing your goods into the EU.


It's important to note that customs duties are not always calculated based on the value of the goods alone. In some cases, other factors such as the quantity, weight, or size of the goods may be taken into account.


It's always a good idea to consult with a customs broker or other trade professional to ensure that you have an accurate estimate of the customs duties that will apply to your imported goods.


Additionally, it's worth noting that EU customs duties are not the only trade-related costs that you may need to pay when importing goods into the EU. Other costs such as VAT (value-added tax), excise duties, and other import taxes may also apply, depending on the type of goods you are importing and the country of destination.


It's important to research and budget for all applicable trade-related costs when planning your import to the EU.