There are a variety of export-related documents that may be required for certain markets or for certain products. Some of the more common documents include:
- Shipper's Export Declaration
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading
- Temporary Import Certificate/ATA CARNET
- Insurance Certificate
- Export Packing List
- Import License
- Consular Invoice
- Inspection Certification
- Dock Receipt and Warehouse Receipt
- Destination Control Statement
Consult the Minnesota Trade Assistance Helpline at 651-259-7498 for questions regarding the applicability of these documents to your export activities.
Product Classification (HS Numbers or Schedule B Numbers)
Products traded internationally are assigned a standardized six-digit number, called a Harmonized System (HS) Number, which are used by customs authorities around the world to identify products for the consistent application of duties and taxes. Some countries add additional digits to the HS number to further distinguish products in certain categories. For instance, in the U.S., four additional digits are added to the 6-digit HS Number making it a 10-digit number and is called a Schedule B Number.
There is a difference between the HS classification number and the Schedule B number. The HS number is an internationally accepted code. The basic HS code contains 6-digits, known as a subheading. The Schedule B is a 10-digit code built upon the first 6 digits of the HS code. Additionally, the Schedule B code is a U.S.-specific coding system used by the U.S. Government to monitor U.S. exports. The Schedule B system in administered by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The Census Bureau's Schedule B search engine offers a number of ways to find the appropriate Schedule B number for your product.
If you need assistance determining your Schedule B number, contact our Trade Assistance Helpline at 651-259-7498.
Tariff Rates
A tariff, also known as a duty, is a tax charged by customs on the value of imported products at the time of importation. Additional charges, such as sales and state taxes and custom fees, also may be levied on imported products.
Since tariffs essentially increase the price of imported products, which impact their competitiveness, it is very important that you know the tariffs and other fees that will be levied against your product before your export. Contact the U.S. Department of Commerce to help you determine the tariff rates.