HS codes requirement

As of January 1st, 2011 it will be mandatory to state the correct HS code for all goods arriving or transiting the European Community, including Norway and Switzerland.

This concerns all import/export cargo leaving/entering the EU regardless of the eventual destination of the cargo.

The Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System (HS) is an internationally standardised system of names and numbers for classifying traded products developed and maintained by the World Customs Organisation.

It is therefore needed that for all cargo exported (specially Portugal and Spain at this moment) from Rotterdam port the HS code(s) are stated on the B/L and container manifest which is supplier's/customer's liability. If such a code is not entered correctly or missing in our manifest, Customs may seize/delay the cargo and issue a fine which will be consequently for the account of the shipper or consignee.

Therefore we kindly and urgently request you to always state all correct HS Codes for all products to be shipped to prevent all kinds of delay and fines at port of discharge. (source: SSC)

Thanks for your cooperation.

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