Understanding HS Codes: How to Find & Use Them

HS Code lookup guide: how to classify your product, navigate SARS Tariff Book, and avoid costly duty errors.

2 min read 4 sections Updated 11 May 2026
On this page
  1. How to find your HS code
  2. HS code structure (example)
  3. Common classification errors
  4. Frequently asked questions

The HS (Harmonized System) Code is a 6-digit international code that classifies a product for tariff and trade purposes. Two products with different HS codes can have wildly different duty rates. Getting it wrong costs you money.

How to find your HS code

  1. Visit SARS Tariff Book: sars.gov.za/customs-and-excise/tariff/
  2. Download the PDF (Schedule 1): It's the official tariff document for South Africa
  3. Search by product name: Use Ctrl+F to find your product. Example: "cotton t-shirts"
  4. Find the exact classification: Tariff Book shows the 6-digit HS code and the duty rate
  5. Verify with supplier: Ask your supplier what HS code they use. Compare with SARS Tariff Book.

HS code structure (example)

6109.10.10
61 — Chapter: Knitted or crocheted apparel
6109 — Heading: T-shirts, singlets & vests
6109.10 — Subheading: Of cotton (the international 6-digit code)
.10 — South Africa's national 7th–8th digits (local tariff & statistics)

The first 6 digits are the international HS code (used worldwide). South Africa adds 2 more digits for its own tariff rates and statistics.

Common classification errors

❌ Calling cotton apparel "textiles" — Textiles (fabric rolls) are HS 52xx (22% duty). Apparel (finished shirts) is HS 61xx (45%). Wrong code = wrong duty.
❌ Confusing machinery categories — Industrial machinery (HS 84xx) is often 0% duty. But the wrong 6-digit subcategory can be 5–10%. Precision matters.
❌ "It's probably HS 8900" — Guessing is expensive. Always verify with SARS Tariff Book or a customs agent.
Pro move: Ask your clearing agent to verify HS code before you import. Cost: R500–1,000. Saves you thousands in duty.

Frequently asked questions

What is an HS code?

A six-digit international product classification used for tariff and trade purposes worldwide. The first six digits are identical in every country; South Africa adds further digits for its own duty rates and statistics. Example: 6109.10 — chapter 61 (knitted apparel), heading 6109 (t-shirts, singlets and vests), subheading .10 (of cotton).

How do I find the HS code for my product?

Download the official Tariff Book (Schedule 1) from the SARS website, search it for your product name, and note the code and duty rate. Cross-check the code your supplier uses against the SARS book — and for anything borderline, have a clearing agent verify it for R500–1,000 before you import.

What happens if I use the wrong HS code?

You pay the wrong duty. Fabric rolls (HS 52xx, around 22%) versus finished apparel (HS 61xx, 45%) is a classic example — the wrong code means either overpaying for years or a back-charge with penalties when SARS catches it. Never guess a code.

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