WCO Explanatory Notes

Arne Mielken
May 14
3 min read

🔐Streamline Your Customs Classification with WCO Explanatory Notes 2022 and Previous Versions - learn three methods to access them here.

The Harmonized System Convention, comprising 5 volumes and Amending Supplements, is an international classification system for goods in international trade. This information is particularly useful for customs officials, traders, and other stakeholders involved in international trade, as it helps to ensure that goods are classified correctly and that duties and taxes are applied accurately.

The Explanatory Notes, although they do not form an integral part of the convention, have been approved by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council as the official interpretation of the Harmonized System at the international level.

The Explanatory Notes are an indispensable complement to the System, and they provide a wealth of detailed information that is essential to understanding the scope and classification of goods.

The Explanatory Notes offer a detailed explanation of each heading, including a list of the primary products that are included and excluded under the heading, technical details about the goods (such as appearance, properties, production process, and uses), and identification tips.

They also provide guidance on the interpretation and application of the Harmonized System, helping to ensure that the System is used consistently across different countries and industries.

In addition, the Explanatory Notes specify the extent of specific subheadings, offering further guidance on how to classify goods under the System.

Overall, the Explanatory Notes are an essential resource for anyone involved in international trade, providing detailed information and guidance on the Harmonized System and helping to ensure that goods are classified accurately and consistently across different countries and industries.

There are at least three ways to access the WCO Explanatory notes:

1) Purchase A Subscription

The Explanatory Notes are available by subscription on www.wcotradetools.org. It can also be purchased via the WCO Online Bookshop.

2) Get them for no charge on the world wide web

They may also be accessed here:

https://customnews.pk/harmonized-system-commodity-database/

3) Get them through the WCO

Accessing Explanatory Notes in English for free. It can be done through the following steps:

1. Visit the WCO Al tool at http://49.50.165.5:19090/.

2. Click on the 'Total Result' tab.

3. Enter the 4-digit HS code.

4. The Explanatory Notes will appear on the right-hand side of the screen.

Note: The full text of the Explanatory Notes may not be displayed.

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