HTS Code vs Schedule B Code: Import and Export Classification Compared

What is the difference between an HTS code and a Schedule B code?

HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes are used to classify imported goods and determine applicable duty rates. Schedule B codes are used to classify exported goods for U.S. Census Bureau statistical reporting through the Automated Export System (AES). Both are based on the international Harmonized System (HS) and share the same first six digits, but they diverge at the 8- and 10-digit level. Using an HTS code for an export filing or a Schedule B code for an import entry is an error that can trigger penalties, delays, or incorrect duty assessment.

Can I use the same code for imports and exports?

The first six digits (the international HS code) are identical. Beyond six digits, the codes diverge because they serve different purposes: HTS codes at 8-10 digits determine specific duty rates, while Schedule B codes at 8-10 digits capture trade statistics. In some cases, the full 10-digit codes happen to be the same, but this is coincidental, not guaranteed. Always use the HTS for imports and Schedule B for exports.

---

This is one of the most common points of confusion for companies that both import and export. A purchasing manager may look up a product code for an import entry and use the same code on an export filing, or vice versa. At the six-digit level, this works because the international HS is shared. But at the 10-digit level, where duty rates are assigned (HTS) or statistical categories are defined (Schedule B), the codes diverge, and using the wrong one creates compliance problems.

Last updated: March 2026

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	HTS Code	Schedule B Code
Purpose	Classify imports, determine duty rates	Classify exports, report trade statistics
Administered by	USITC (U.S. International Trade Commission)	Census Bureau
Used for	Customs entry (CBP)	AES filing (Census)
Structure	10 digits	10 digits
First 6 digits	International HS (shared)	International HS (shared)
Digits 7-10	U.S.-specific duty rate breakdowns	U.S.-specific statistical breakdowns
Determines duty rate	Yes	No
Required for AES	No	Yes
Legal reference	Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States	Statistical Classification of Domestic and Foreign Commodities Exported from the United States

Why the Distinction Matters for Compliance

Import side. The HTS code determines your duty rate, whether Section 232 or Section 301 tariffs apply, eligibility for trade agreement preferences, and quota restrictions. An incorrect HTS code can result in overpayment or underpayment of duties, penalties under 19 U.S.C. 1592, and incorrect tariff program application.

Export side. The Schedule B code determines whether an export license is required, reporting obligations under the Foreign Trade Regulations, and eligibility for export exemptions. An incorrect Schedule B code can result in export control violations, AES filing errors, and Census Bureau penalties.

The common mistake. Companies that import components and export finished products sometimes use their import HTS codes on export filings. The first six digits may be correct, but the 8-10 digit suffixes are likely wrong because they serve different classification purposes. This creates discrepancies in trade records that can trigger CBP or Census scrutiny.

GingerControl's HTS Classifier is designed for import classification, producing audit-ready reports with GRI analysis and CROSS ruling research. For companies that need accurate import classification as the foundation for their trade compliance program, the Classifier ensures the HTS code is correct before it cascades through the tariff stack. Try the Classifier

FAQ

Where do I find the correct Schedule B code?

The Census Bureau maintains the Schedule B search tool at census.gov/foreign-trade/schedules/b. You can search by keyword or browse by chapter. For most products, starting with the HS code (first 6 digits) from your HTS classification and then finding the matching Schedule B extension is the most efficient approach.

Do I need both codes if I import and export?

Yes. Use the HTS code for all import entries filed with CBP. Use the Schedule B code for all export filings through AES. Maintain both codes in your product database and ensure they are applied to the correct transaction type.

Can GingerControl help with export classification?

GingerControl's HTS Classifier focuses on import classification (HTS codes). For export classification, the first six digits of the HTS classification provide the HS-level starting point for identifying the correct Schedule B code. GingerControl also supports ECCN classification for export control purposes alongside HTS classification. Try the Classifier

---

Getting the right code for the right transaction is fundamental. GingerControl's HTS Classifier ensures your import classifications are accurate and audit-ready.

GingerControl is not just a tool. We work with importers and trade compliance teams on process consulting, digital transformation strategy, and end-to-end custom system development. Talk to our team

---

References

[REF 1] USITC, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States Source: USITC

[REF 2] U.S. Census Bureau, Schedule B Source: Census.gov

[REF 3] World Customs Organization, "The Harmonized System" Data cited: International HS shared across 200+ countries Source: WCO