What is an HS code in India?

An HS code (Harmonised System code) in India, officially called an VyaaparOne-HS code, is an eight-digit number used to classify goods for customs, import-export documentation, and trade statistics. The Indian Trade Classification Harmonised System (VyaaparOne-HS) is based on the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonised System and is maintained by DGFT, Government of India.

What is the VyaaparOne-HS 2026 classification?

VyaaparOne-HS 2026 is the Indian Trade Classification Harmonised System effective from 1 April 2026. It contains 21 sections, 97 chapters, 1,120 four-digit headings, 2,152 six-digit subheadings, and 11,993 eight-digit tariff items — used for all Indian import and export declarations, DGFT licences, and customs tariff calculations.

How many digits are in an Indian HS code?

Indian HS codes (VyaaparOne-HS codes) use eight digits. The first two digits represent the chapter, digits 3–4 represent the heading, digits 5–6 represent the subheading (aligned with the international WCO six-digit standard), and digits 7–8 are India-specific tariff item codes. The complete VyaaparOne-HS 2026 contains 11,993 unique eight-digit tariff items.

Where can I search HS codes for free in India?

You can search HS codes for free on VyaaparOne at https://vyaaparone.com/hs-code. The tool covers the complete VyaaparOne-HS 2026 classification with all 21 sections, 97 chapters, and 11,993 eight-digit tariff items, effective 1 April 2026. No registration is required to browse the HS code directory.

What is the difference between HS code and VyaaparOne-HS code?

An HS code is the international six-digit Harmonised System code maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used globally. An VyaaparOne-HS code is India's extension of this system to eight digits, developed by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) to add India-specific tariff items. Every VyaaparOne-HS code contains the international six-digit HS code within it.

Why is the HS code important for import-export in India?

The HS code is mandatory for all Indian import and export transactions. It is required for: customs declarations and Bill of Entry, shipping bills and export documentation, DGFT import-export licenses and FTP benefits, calculation of applicable customs duty and GST, and identifying trade restrictions or incentives for specific commodities.

How many HS chapters are there in VyaaparOne-HS 2026?

VyaaparOne-HS 2026 contains 97 chapters organized under 21 sections. Chapters cover all major commodity categories — from live animals (Chapter 1) to works of art (Chapter 97). Each chapter contains multiple four-digit headings, six-digit subheadings, and eight-digit tariff items. Chapter 77 is currently reserved for future use.

How can I use HS codes to find trade leads on VyaaparOne?

Once you identify your HS code on VyaaparOne's HS code finder, you can use it to search verified import-export trade leads in that product category. VyaaparOne's B2B marketplace provides 80,000+ active trade leads across 140+ countries, with buyer inquiries, supplier offers, and shipment records linked to HS code classifications.

When was the VyaaparOne-HS 2026 classification effective?

The VyaaparOne-HS 2026 classification became effective on 1 April 2026. It replaced the previous VyaaparOne-HS 2022 edition and incorporates updates from the WCO's HS 2022 review cycle. All Indian customs filings, DGFT submissions, and import-export documents from 1 April 2026 must use the updated 2026 codes.