Guide to ECCN and HTS Code
Background
Based on the updated regulations from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) within the U.S. Department of Commerce, the BIS's jurisdiction has expanded to encompass the US export, re-export, and in-country transfer of specific commodities, software, and technology that fall under the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
Overview
To increase the shipping information accuracy, for shipments originating from the U.S. to Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions via SF US Online Order Portal (https://usshipweb.sf-express.com) and SFBuy.com (https://www.sfbuy.com), it is mandatory to provide both the ECCN and Schedule B codes. Starting on October 19, 2023, our IUOP system upgrade will enable the functionality to input ECCN and HTS codes (https://iuop.sf-express.com). It is recommended to include both the ECCN and HTS codes on manifests or shipments placed on our IUOP system for all shipments exporting from the USA. These include shipments received via API/EDI or via the IUOP interface.
What is ECCN Number?
A key in determining whether an export license is needed from the Department of Commerce is finding out if the item you intend to export has a specific Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). ECCNs are five-character alpha-numeric designations used on the Commerce Control List (CCL) to identify dual-use items for export control purposes. An ECCN categorizes items based on the nature of the product, i.e., type of commodity, software, or technology and its respective technical parameters.
How to Find an Item's ECCN?
For items you've purchased, one source of export classification numbers is the US vendor or manufacturer. If they regularly export their products, they should know the item's ECCN.
If you can't obtain the ECCN from the vendor or manufacturer (or if there isn't one), Then follow the below steps to find its ECCN.
1. Use the BIS Export Control Classification Tool to verify if the item falls under the jurisdiction of the EAR. You could also let the official professionals determine the ECCN of your product. You can submit a product classification request online through the Simplified Network Application Process Redesign (SNAP-R).
2. If the item falls under U.S. Department of Commerce jurisdiction and is not listed on the CCL, it is designated as EAR99. EAR99 items generally consist of low-technology consumer goods and do not require a license in many situations. However, if you plan to export an EAR99 item to an embargoed country, to an end-user of concern, or in support of a prohibited end-use, you may be required to obtain a license.
3. If the item is in the jurisdiction of the EAR, you must provide the corresponding ECCN number. Sometimes it is helpful to search the CCL Index to get an initial idea of what the category might be.
What is HTS and Schedule B?
HTS stands for Harmonized Tariff Schedule, a classification system used in the United States to help determine customs duties. Schedule B codes are ten-digit numbers used by the US Census Bureau to monitor US exports. An item's Schedule B is similar to its HTS code, where the first six digits are identical to the international HS code; however, its last four digits may be different.
How to Find an Item's Schedule B code?
1) Use the US Census Schedule B Search Engine to determine the item's Schedule B code.
2) Enter a precise description of your items in the search bar, e.g., "Vitamin C".
3) Select the relevant option from the search results to retrieve a 10-digit HTS number.
The information contained in this document is for informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. It does not constitute legal advice or a representation of SF policy. Customers are responsible for ensuring that your shipments comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including those relating to export controls.
SF Express Co., Ltd. and its affiliates will not directly or indirectly participate in any way in any transaction involving any commodity, software, or technology exported or to be exported from the United States that is subject to the International Trade in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or that would require an export license under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
More Questions?
Should you have any queries or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to your account manager or our US customer support team at 1-855-901-1133.
