What's the difference between a Schedule B and HTS number?

All import and export codes used by the U.S. are based on the worldwide Harmonized Tariff System (HTS). The HTS assigns 6-digit codes (known as the HS number) for general categories that are used worldwide. These 6-digit codes are broken down by Chapter (2 digits), Heading (4 digits) and Sub-heading (6 digits). Countries that use the HTS are then allowed to further define their commodities at a more detailed level, usually 8-10 digits, but still using the universal 6-digit number to start with. The United States uses this system as a foundation for determining both Schedule B numbers and the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which are nearly identical. The Schedule B number (reported on your SED) is used by Department of Commerce's Foreign Trade Statistics office to generate export statistics. The HTSUS number is used by U.S. Customs in the import process.

If you are ready to export and need more information please tell us more about you .