Guide · Catalog API
Indian HSN Code Guide
Understand the Indian ITC-HS hierarchy and search source-referenced catalog records before completing classification and filing checks.
CLEARIE™ GETWAY is not affiliated with DGFT, CBIC, ICEGATE, or Indian Customs. This is decision support, not official classification advice. See the Data Disclaimer.
How HSN codes work in India
India follows the World Customs Organisation's Harmonised System and extends it to 8 digits via the Indian Trade Classification (ITC-HS). The first two digits identify the chapter, the next two the heading, and the final four pinpoint the tariff item used for customs duty and GST calculation.
- Chapter (2 digits) — broad category, e.g.
27Mineral fuels. - Heading (4 digits) — product family, e.g.
2710Petroleum oils. - Sub-heading (6 digits) — global HSN granularity.
- Tariff item (8 digits) — India-specific ITC-HS line, used for customs & DGFT.
Choose the required granularity
The correct number of digits depends on the filing and the latest applicable rule. Confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or your customs/tax adviser.
| Scenario | Digits required |
|---|---|
| HS chapter | 2 |
| HS heading / subheading | 4 / 6 |
| India-specific ITC-HS tariff item | 8 |
| GST/customs/DGFT filing | As currently prescribed |
Use the HSN Lookup API
Search the current Getway HSN catalog by description or code fragment. Responses return matching catalog records and source metadata where available; classification, GST, duty, and FTA determinations remain separate verification workflows.
curl -H "Authorization: Bearer $CLEARIE_KEY" \
"https://getway.clearie.neximprove.com/v1/master/hsn/search?q=lithium+ion+battery"Frequently asked questions
What is an HSN code?
The Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) is a 6-to-8 digit code used worldwide to classify traded goods. India extends it to 8 digits for customs (ITC-HS) and GST filings.
How do I find the correct HSN code for my product?
Start with the broad chapter, narrow to the heading, then compare the product's material, function, and form against the most specific ITC-HS tariff item. The CLEARIE™ GETWAY catalog API can search codes and descriptions, but it does not make a binding classification determination.
Is HSN the same as ITC-HS?
ITC-HS is India's 8-digit extension of the 6-digit global HSN. Customs and DGFT use ITC-HS; GST returns may use 4-, 6-, or 8-digit HSN depending on turnover.
How many HSN digits do I need for GST invoices?
The required granularity depends on the transaction, filing, turnover rules, and current government notifications. Verify the applicable GST, customs, and DGFT requirement before issuing an invoice or filing a declaration.
Where does CLEARIE source its HSN data?
From source-referenced ITC-HS schedules, GST rate notifications, and internal normalization. Always verify against current DGFT, CBIC, and customs sources before filing.