HS, HTS, Schedule B, ECCN – what's the difference for small U.S. sellers?

This post gives a simplified view of these terms from the perspective of a small U.S. seller. It doesn't cover every nuance and isn't legal advice.

1. HS – Harmonized System

The Harmonized System (HS) is a global framework for naming and coding products. Most countries build their tariff schedules on top of it.

• Shared root structure so countries can talk about the same product categories
• Used as a base for both import and export classification systems
• Helps customs understand "what" a product is

2. HTS – Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the U.S.

The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) is the U.S. tariff schedule used mainly for imports.

• Built on the HS framework with U.S.-specific detail
• Used when goods are entering the U.S., not leaving it
• Important for importers, brokers, and customs professionals

3. Schedule B (U.S. exports)

Schedule B is a system of export classification numbers used for U.S. export statistics and filings. Like HTS, it's based on the HS structure.

• Used when goods are shipped out of the U.S. to other countries
• Relevant for export documentation and certain filings
• For many small exporters, this is where most of their classification effort sits

In practice, small sellers often focus on picking consistent, defensible Schedule B codes, which line up with HS at the core.

4. ECCN – Export Control Classification Number

ECCN numbers relate to U.S. export control regulations. They're especially important for:

• Advanced electronics and components
• Software and encryption products
• Dual-use items with potential military or strategic use

For typical handmade jewelry, candles, crafts, and similar consumer goods, ECCN is often not the primary concern. For more complex or technical products, it can be critical.

5. What matters most for a small U.S. seller?

If you're shipping consumer products like crafts, jewelry, or home goods from the U.S., the main practical tasks are usually:

• Identifying a plausible HS/Schedule B code for each product
• Using that classification consistently across shipments
• Checking whether the product raises any export control or restricted-item issues

6. How ExportCompass fits into this picture

ExportCompass focuses on helping small U.S. sellers with HS/Schedule B–related questions and country research:

• Suggesting likely HS/Schedule B codes from plain-language descriptions
• Linking those codes to country-specific summaries
• Packaging the information into short, practical briefs

It doesn't replace export-control analysis or specialized advice, but it can help you get past the first layer of confusion.