A Brief overview of what Harmonization Codes are, when to use them, and how to use them
What are Harmonization Codes?
A Harmonization Code is a specific number assigned to a product. Its used by international mailing systems in order to keep records of the types of items being imported into foreign countries. Its used so that countries can calculate the customs duties and import taxes you owe to their government for shipping your package to them. Think of it like your student ID you had in school, its a set of random numbers but it refers to you and you alone!
When do I use Harmonization Codes?
Harmonization codes are used when shipping abroad. This means anywhere outside the United States. Not all countries require you to include Harmonization codes. The main one to be aware of is that all EU (European union countries) now require it on their packages. Unfortunately, Thryft Ship does not ship outside the US quite yet. We do however ship to US territories and Military Bases!
You do not need Harmonization Codes for US territories or military bases.
US territories are still within the US so no need for Harmonization Codes there!
Military bases work much the same where even if the military base is abroad, it is still shipped through USPS. The package never gets handed over to the destination postal carrier so it’s still not necessary. You’d just want to make sure that you’re not including the actual city or country names for the recipient address, only the unit and box numbers for APO/FPO/DPO address.
How do I use Harmonization Codes?
To use harmonization codes, make sure you are shipping to an EU member country. Then head to the United States Census Bureau Schedule B Search Engine and describe your product. You can also access this website on the bottom of your shipping form by clicking the “Click Here” button under the Harmonization Code box!
Try to keep your initial description as basic as possible, like “socks” or “jeans”.
Then you’ll be taken to the “tell us more about” section. Go through the drop down and pick the closest matching description. Once you’ve filled out all the required fields, click “Accept”.
Tada! All done! The search engine will give you your products’ harmonization number. Look through the options given and pick the best fitted one. Then copy and paste this number into your Thryft Ship form.
