Pricing & Classification DMM Advisory
September 24, 2025
International Shipping: Mandatory Harmonized System (HS) Codes and the Importance of Good Descriptions
Harmonized System (HS) codes are 6-to-10-digit identifiers linked to specific goods. Customs authorities worldwide use these codes to ensure safety, security, and efficiency in the international shipping process.
Effective September 1, 2025, mailers worldwide must provide, at minimum, the applicable 6-digit HS code for each item in an international shipment.
USPS customers do not need to look up these numerical codes if they provide a detailed description of each item on their customs form.
Acceptable descriptions explain the precise nature of the goods in plain language, and should include:
- what the goods are,
- what the goods are made of, and
- what purpose they serve.
| Unacceptable Description | Acceptable Description |
|---|---|
| Clothes | Woman’s 100% cotton polo shirt Boy’s denim jeans |
| Toys | Children’s plastic doll, model toy car, fake fur plush teddy bear |
| Gifts | Blank writing journal, booklet of stickers |
| Electronics | Laptop computer, mobile phone, small kitchen scale |
| Tools | Screwdriver, power drill, rubber mallet |
When a precise description is absent, the mailer risks having their package delayed, seized, or returned by the destination customs authority.
More information about HS codes and acceptable goods descriptions can be found at: https://www.usps.com/international/customs-forms.htm