Look up commodity codes, import duties, taxes and controls
Search for a commodity
Commodity codes are internationally recognised reference numbers. A commodity code describes a specific product when importing or exporting goods. You will use this code on any customs declarations.
Tips on searching for products
Commodity codes can be very specific, so you need to be very clear about what you're importing or exporting. This will help avoid any delays at customs.
Helpful tips
To find a commodity code, you must specify what the item is. If the item is a gift, you must still specify the product.
Do not use brand names. It is best to use general terms like trainers or sports footwear instead of 'Nike trainers'.
Expect technical language. Commodity code descriptions can be quite formal. For example, a laptop might be described as a "Portable automatic data-processing machines, weighing not more than 10 kg, consisting of at least a central processing unit, a keyboard and a display."
Use plain English and avoid using foreign words or special characters. The search is also unable to pick up on any spelling mistakes.
Make sure you're using the correct country's classification. Commodity codes can vary between countries. Make sure you're using the right code for the country you're importing to or from.
If you are struggling to understand the duty you may need to pay then this guidance may help you: Tax and customs for goods sent from abroad: Tax and duty - GOV.UK
If you're stuck
If you can't find what you're looking for:
Steps for searching the tariff
- Be specific about the product you are looking for. It's often not enough to describe a product as 'clothing' or 'electronics'. You must specify what the product is, for example, 'cotton shirt', 'car tyres', or 'laptop'.
- For raw materials and manufactured products, it can be useful to search for products by the material or what they are made from. For example, steel, wood, stone or glass.
- The search tool will suggest a number of sections. Select the section which best describes the product you are importing or exporting.
- You will be shown the relevant commodities based on your section. Choose the one which most closely matches your product.
Alternatively, you can:
Last updated: 5 November 2025 View latest amendments