Commodity Code Explained & How To Find One

When sending within or outside of the EU, a commodity code must be present on your deceleration. Commodity Codes are universal codes used to identify types / categories of goods for applying duties, as per UK trade tariff. 

Commodity codes are 10 digits long based upon: 

• Type of product
• The materials used within manufacture. 
• The production method used. 

To find your commodity code:

1. Go to https://www.trade-tariff.service.gov.uk/sections and search for your goods. It might not be the straight name for the product, it might come under what its used for or the materials its made from. 
2. The tool will suggest a section or number of sections.
3. Headings on each chapter describe a product. Select a sub-heading which accurately describes your product. 
4. If your item is not accurately described, keep looking. Else, use the 'other' heading at the bottom of the section. 

Once the correct section has been found, your commodity code will be displayed, as-well as any required licenses or trade quotas (quantity limits). 

For more information about trade tarrifs, such as goods made from many materials, guidance can be found here.