Europe Information Gateway
HS / CN Codes Overview
Goods classification references used for tariff measures, prohibitions, and reporting—distinct from company identifiers.
Scope
- Informational guidance
- No account, no submissions
- Links to official sources where possible
This gateway explains systems; it does not replace authorities.
Key point
HS/CN codes classify goods. They do not identify companies, shipments, or invoices.
What they are
HS (Harmonized System) is an international nomenclature for classifying goods. In the EU, CN (Combined Nomenclature) extends classification for EU tariff and statistical needs.
Why classification matters
- Determining applicable duty measures
- Identifying controls and restrictions that depend on product type
- Supporting consistent reporting and statistics