How to Determine Customs Fees: A Beginner’s Guide to HTS Codes and Import Costs

If you’ve ever imported something—whether it’s tile, furniture, or luxury light fixtures—you may have found yourself wondering: “How do I know how much I’ll owe in customs?”

The answer? It all starts with something called an HTS code. Let’s break it down and help you feel confident calculating the true cost of getting goods into the U.S.

What Is an HTS Code?

HTS stands for Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It’s a system used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to classify every product that enters the country. Think of it like a global language for goods—every item, from a marble sink to a velvet barstool, has its own numerical ID.

Most HTS codes are 10 digits long. The first 6 digits are standardized globally, while the remaining 4 digits are country-specific.

🛠️ Example:

• 6810.19.5000 – “Articles of cement, concrete or artificial stone – other – other”

How to Find an HTS Code

There are a few ways:

1. Ask your supplier – Many overseas suppliers will include the HTS code in the commercial invoice or packing list.

2. Use the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) site – Their HTS search tool is helpful but can be a bit overwhelming.

3. Ask your customs broker (or us!) – We’ll help you assign the right code to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

⚠️ Be careful: Using the wrong HTS code can lead to fines, shipment delays, or surprise duties.

What Do Customs Fees Include?

Once you have the correct HTS code, you can determine:

• General Duty Rate – This is the base percentage charged on the item’s declared value.

• Additional Duties – This can include:

  • Anti-dumping or countervailing duties

  • Section 301 Tariffs (especially for products from China)

  • Section 232 Tariffs (for steel and aluminum)

  • Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) – 0.3464% of value, capped at $538.40

  • Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) – 0.125% (for ocean freight only)

Simple Formula for Estimating Your Customs Fees

Here’s a basic breakdown:

(Declared Value) x (Total Duty Rate + Additional Fees) = Estimated Customs Charges

Let’s say you’re importing a shipment of stone sinks valued at $20,000 and the HTS duty rate is 4.9%:

• $20,000 x 0.049 = $980 in duties

• Add MPF and HMF: ~$100

• Estimated Total: $1,080

(Pro tip: Always round up when budgeting!)

Why This Matters

Understanding customs fees upfront helps you:

• ✅ Avoid budget surprises

• ✅ Compare supplier quotes more accurately

• ✅ Plan your retail pricing (if you’re reselling)

At Supply Junkie, we help clients map out total landed costs from day one—so you can import smarter and more strategically.

Need help finding the right HTS code or want a quote that includes everything—material, shipping, and customs? That’s what we’re here for.