Schedule B Codes: A Quick Guide for US Exporters
Have you ever thought about how the U.S. government monitors the numerous products exported daily? It’s all thanks to Schedule B codes, a set of 10-digit codes.
Customs officials use these codes to classify the exported goods and assign appropriate duties and taxes on the basis of classification.
This blog post will help you understand Schedule B codes and their significance in international trading.
Understanding Schedule B codes
Schedule B codes are 10-digit codes used in the United States to classify exporting goods. They enable the US government to accurately identify and track the goods moving across international borders.
These codes are managed by the Census Bureau’s Foreign Trade Division, which diligently keeps track of exports by country, including the quantity and value in U.S. dollars.
It is administered by the Census Bureau’s Foreign Trade Division, which keeps records of exports by country as well as the quantity and value in U.S. dollars.
The initial six digits of the Schedule B number represent the Harmonised System code number (HS code), a universal numeric importing and exporting goods classifying system adopted by customs authorities worldwide.
How can you assign a Schedule B code to a product?
The Schedule B number depends on the product’s properties, such as:
- Type
- Composition
- Purpose
- Use
To find the correct number, refer to the Harmonized System database or ask customs officials.
Is the Schedule B code the same globally?
In various countries, the Schedule B number might be referred to by different names, such as:
- Tariff Code
- Customs Tariff
- Harmonised System Code
Despite these variations, the first six digits (HS code) of Schedule B numbers generally remain consistent internationally, which is recognised and adopted by most countries. However, some countries may introduce minor differences or extra subheadings to suit their unique trade needs.
What is the purpose of Schedule B codes?
Schedule B codes are intended to further classify the exporting goods from the US within the main category assigned by the HS code.
These codes can be helpful in the following ways:
Identify applicable tariff rates or preferential tariffs under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) for the product.
Accurately fill out the shipping documents, such as the letter of instructions, the shipper’s export declaration, certificate of origin, and commercial invoices.
Look for potential limitations under the U.S. Export Administration.
How to find the Schedule B code
Follow these steps to find the accurate Schedule code B for the products using the Schedule B code lookup tool.
Describe the product
Start by providing a basic description of the product. For example, “bicycle.”
Add specific details about the product in the Schedule B code search engine, such as components, materials, or features. Be sure to mention if your bicycle has a different gear system or specific frame. For example, “Bicycle; aluminium frame; self-propelled; 21-speed.”
Review provided results
Compare the product description you provided with the search results. If you find a matching one, the corresponding Schedule B code will likely be the right one. For example, if you search for “bicycle; self-propelled; not-stationary,” you might see results like “Bicycles and cycles; not motorised.”
Record the Schedule B code
Once you have identified the accurate Schedule B code, note it down for future reference.
Re-check that the code accurately reflects the characteristics of your product.
For example, the Schedule B code for the bicycle can be 87.12.
If you are still unsure about finding the accurate Schedule B code for your product, feel free to reach out to our team of experts to assist you by using an innovative Schedule B code finder.
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Schedule B code: How can I read it?
To understand the Schedule B codes, you need to know how the digits are grouped and what they refer to. The digits are organised in the following pattern:
| Schedule B code Example | |
|---|---|
| Chapter | The first two digits, i.e., 12 |
| Heading | The first four digits, i.e., 12.34 |
| Sub-heading | The first six digits, i.e., 1234.56 |
| Country-specific information | Additional four digits to the six-digit code, i.e., 1234.56.7890 |
Can Schedule B code be used for imports?
No, Schedule B codes are only designed for exports. For imports, you must use a Harmonised Tariff System (HTS) code.
A Schedule B code can’t be used in place of an HTS code, while an HTS code can be used in place of a Schedule B code. This is because the Schedule B codes are not as detailed as the HTS code regarding goods description.
Let iCustoms help you find your Schedule B export codes
Using the incorrect Schedule B codes will result in the wrong duties and tax rate determination, posing a financial burden on you. To avoid this, it is essential to consult a reliable source such as iCustoms to ensure the accuracy of the Schedule B code.
iCustoms’ iClassification tool helps businesses find HS and Schedule B codes for accurately and effortlessly importing and exporting goods. It results in reduced costs related to customs classification, improved compliance, and increased productivity.
Get accurate HS codes in seconds with iCustoms!
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Streamline Product Classification
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