Adding Further Description: Schedule B and GHS

This system can be further enhanced depending on the country that is importing or exporting the goods.

In the US, products are assigned an additional four digit code, known as the Schedule B number, to classify them further. This four digit code is added to the end of the HS code to make a 10 digit code.

Schedule B numbers are used and administered by the US Commerce Department, Census Bureau, Foreign Trade Division. The data they collect is then used to publish US export statistics.

To check what your Schedule B number is, you can use an HS Code Finder, like this free online search tool. Alternatively you can speak to a fulfillment provider who should be able to provide you with the relevant information.

In addition, in the US, when you are shipping consignments that are valued over $2,500 or the item is required to have a license, then you need to report the schedule B number to the Automated Export System.

Furthermore there is an additional requirement for the shipment of chemical that runs in parallel to the GS system. It’s called the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).