These may also be referred to as:

• Harmonised System Codes (HS Codes) = first 6 digits of a Commodity Code, used worldwide.
• Tariff Headings / Codes
• CN or Classification Codes

The UK Commodity Code is a 10-digit number used to classify goods at the point of entry into the UK or worldwide, whereas the code used for exports is 8 digits long.

It is used to determine what duty is payable, whether to apply Rules of Origin and what regulatory requirements exist. Identifying the correct commodity code is crucial.