The World Customs Organization (WCO) recently made 350 amendments to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (Harmonized System), which will impact U.S. imports. This five-year HTS update, which was intended to be effective on January 1, 2022, is now postponed until further notice from CBP. You may remember the last major update was back in 2017. Importers need to have their classifications reviewed and updated by January to avoid delays.
As a signatory of the Harmonized System Convention, the United States agreed to use a uniform set of six-digit classification codes. The U.S. additionally has eight and ten-digit codes to further classify items for increased specificity and statistical analysis. These codes are about to change for many industries.
The reasons for changing the codes include technological advances, emerging product streams, changes in trade patterns, environmental and health safety, and anti-terrorism efforts. Changes may also be made for a combination of reasons or to clarify previous decisions.
Industries affected include:
- Fishing
- Dairy products
- Agriculture
- Tobacco products
- Chemical products and construction materials
- Pharmaceuticals
- Waste management, especially electronic waste
- Textiles
- Furniture
- Machinery, appliances, and tools
- Automotive
This list is by no means exhaustive. Make sure you review the Recommended Modifications in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, 2021 before the end of the year. Appendix B has the list of proposed changes and Appendix C has the concordance table. Remember to watch for a Presidential Proclamation and also a Federal Register announcement when these updates to the HTSUS will be effective.
We know the end of the year is an extremely busy time for many industries. We are here to make sure you experience zero delays. Contact your Copper Hill, Inc. representative today to ensure you will be in compliance.
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Brett Stanaway
Vice President, Post Entry
Contact Me
brett.stanaway@copper-hill-inc.com -
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