HSN
Harmonized System Nomenclature. The 6-digit global customs code maintained by the WCO since 1988, foundation of national nomenclatures.
Definition
The HSN (Harmonized System Nomenclature) is the international system of customs goods classification maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It defines a 6-digit nomenclature organised into 21 sections, 99 chapters and roughly 5,300 sub-headings. Countries can extend the code to 8, 10 or 12 digits for national use: the EU Combined Nomenclature (CN) reaches 8 digits, TARIC reaches 10.
Origin
HSN was adopted in 1988 under the International Convention on the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, signed in Brussels in 1983. More than 200 countries use it today for their customs tariffs, international trade statistics and import/export regulations. The 2022 edition (revised every 5 years) introduces codes for drones, electronic waste and ecological-transition products.
Example in context
BGM+220+PO-2026-0042+9'
LIN+1++8517.12:HS'
PIA+1+SMARTPHONE-XR12:SA'Here, the HSN code 8517.12 identifies a mobile phone in customs terms. Sub-heading 8517.12 (Telephones for cellular networks or for other wireless networks) is universally recognised. In a European TARIC declaration, it would be extended to 8517.12.00.00.