5 HS Code Errors That Delay Your Shipment (And How to Fix Them)

Introduction

Every day, shipments sit in Dubai ports not because of missing documents or payment issues, but because of simple HS code errors. These classification mistakes are preventable, yet they cost importers thousands of dirhams in storage fees, demurrage, and delayed deliveries.

After analyzing customs clearance data from thousands of shipments, we've identified the 5 most common HS code errors that cause delays. More importantly, we'll show you exactly how to prevent each one.

**The Cost of HS Code Errors:**

- Average delay: 3-7 business days

- Average additional cost: AED 2,000-8,000 per shipment

- Long-term impact: Increased inspection rates for future shipments

Error #1: Wrong Code Length (6/8 vs 12 Digits)

**The Problem:**

Declaring HS codes with incorrect digit counts - using 6-digit international codes or 8-digit codes when the UAE requires 12 digits.

**Real Example:**

Declared: 851712 (6-digit) or 85171210 (8-digit)

Required: 851712100000 (12-digit)

Result: Automatic system rejection

**Why It Happens:**

- Supplier invoices show international codes

- Outdated ERP systems

- Copy-paste from old declarations

- Confusion about current UAE requirements

**How to Fix:**

- Always verify your code is exactly 12 digits

- Use the [HS Code Converter](/) to extend shorter codes

- Update your product master data with 12-digit codes

- Configure your systems to reject non-12-digit entries

**Prevention Checklist:**

[ ] All HS codes in declaration are 12 digits

[ ] No spaces or special characters in codes

[ ] Leading zeros are preserved (e.g., 010290100000)

Error #2: Classification by Product Name Instead of Function

**The Problem:**

Choosing an HS code based on what the product is called rather than what it actually does or what it's made of.

**Real Example:**

Product: 'Smart Watch'

Wrong approach: Search for 'watches' → Chapter 91 (Clocks and watches)

Correct approach: Analyze function → Chapter 85 (data processing/communication device)

Correct code: 851762xxxxxx (Not 9102xxxxxx)

**Why It Happens:**

- Product names can be misleading

- Marketing terms don't match customs terminology

- Lack of understanding of GRI rules

**How to Fix:**

- Always classify by function, not name

- Consider the product's essential character

- For multi-function items, identify the principal function

- Use [AI HS Code Search](/ai-hs-search) which analyzes product characteristics

**Common Misclassified Products:**

- Smart watches → Telecom devices, not watches

- Tablet computers with cellular → May be telephones, not computers

- USB-C hubs → May be computer parts or electrical adapters

- Power banks → Batteries, not chargers

Error #3: Using Outdated HS Codes

**The Problem:**

Using HS codes from old classifications that have been updated or discontinued.

**Real Example:**

Product: Drone

Old code (pre-2022): 950340xx (Toys and games)

Current code: 880260xx (Aircraft, spacecraft - unmanned aircraft)

**Why It Happens:**

- HS codes are updated every 5 years (WCO cycle)

- UAE implements additional updates

- Templates/databases not refreshed

- Relying on historical declarations without verification

**Major Recent Changes (2022 Update):**

- Drones reclassified from toys to aircraft

- E-cigarettes got new specific codes

- Smartphones differentiated from basic phones

- 3D printers got new classifications

**How to Fix:**

- Verify codes against current UAE tariff before each shipment

- Don't assume last year's code is still valid

- Check for updates when products are modified

- Use tools that reference current tariff data

**When to Re-verify:**

- First shipment of a new year

- Product design changes

- After any tariff update announcement

- When duty rates seem unexpected

Error #4: Ignoring Material Composition

**The Problem:**

Classifying products without considering what they're made of, which can determine the correct code.

**Real Example:**

Product: Kitchen table

Material affects classification:

- Wood: 940340xxxxxx

- Metal: 940320xxxxxx

- Plastic: 940370xxxxxx

Using the wrong material classification = wrong code = delay

**Why It Happens:**

- Assuming all similar products have the same code

- Not reading full product specifications

- Supplier doesn't provide material details

**Products Where Material Matters:**

- Furniture (wood vs metal vs plastic)

- Containers and boxes

- Clothing and textiles

- Tools and implements

- Kitchenware

- Packaging materials

**How to Fix:**

- Always check if the HS code differentiates by material

- Request material specifications from suppliers

- For mixed materials, determine 'essential character'

- Document material composition for future reference

**GRI Rule 3(b) - Essential Character:**

When a product contains multiple materials, classify by the material that gives it its essential character (usually the primary material by weight or value).

Error #5: Misclassifying Sets and Kits

**The Problem:**

Incorrectly declaring products sold as sets, kits, or combinations.

**Real Example:**

Product: Tool kit (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, case)

Wrong approach: Declare each item separately

Correct approach: Classify as a set under the item giving essential character

**Why It Happens:**

- Assuming each item needs its own code

- Not understanding GRI Rule 3(b) for sets

- Incorrectly applying 'retail set' rules

**Rules for Sets (GRI 3(b)):**

Sets must meet ALL criteria:

1. Different products put together

2. For a specific activity or purpose

3. Packaged for retail sale

**How to Classify Sets:**

- Identify the component giving 'essential character'

- Classify the entire set under that component's heading

- The 'essential character' is typically the most valuable or prominent item

**Examples:**

- Picnic set → Classified under the basket/container

- First aid kit → Classified under the bandages/medical items

- Computer bundle (PC + monitor + keyboard) → Each declared separately (not a retail set)

**How to Fix:**

- Determine if items truly constitute a 'set'

- If yes, identify essential character and classify accordingly

- If no, declare items individually

- When in doubt, consult customs broker

How to Verify Your HS Codes Before Submission

**Pre-Submission Checklist:**

**Step 1: Format Check**

- [ ] All codes are exactly 12 digits

- [ ] No spaces, dashes, or special characters

- [ ] Leading zeros preserved

**Step 2: Classification Check**

- [ ] Code matches product function, not just name

- [ ] Material composition considered

- [ ] Current tariff version used

**Step 3: Cross-Reference**

- [ ] Code matches previous successful shipments of same product

- [ ] Duty rate is as expected

- [ ] No new permit requirements indicated

**Step 4: Validation**

- [ ] Run through [Flat File Converter](/convert) for validation

- [ ] Check against official UAE tariff database

- [ ] Verify with broker if high-value shipment

**Tools to Help:**

- [AI HS Code Search](/ai-hs-search) - Intelligent classification suggestions

- [HS Code Converter](/) - Convert and verify code formats

- [Flat File Converter](/convert) - Validate before submission

What to Do If Your Shipment Is Delayed Due to HS Code Error

**Immediate Actions:**

**1. Identify the Error (Day 1)**

- Get specific error message from customs/broker

- Determine which product(s) have code issues

- Understand what correction is needed

**2. Prepare Correction (Day 1-2)**

- Research correct HS code

- Gather supporting documentation (specs, manufacturer info)

- Calculate any duty difference

**3. Submit Amendment (Day 2-3)**

- File amended declaration through broker

- Pay any additional duties owed

- Provide supporting documentation

**4. Follow Up (Day 3-5)**

- Monitor declaration status

- Respond promptly to any queries

- Coordinate cargo pickup once cleared

**Minimizing Damage:**

- Act immediately - every day costs money

- Don't argue, just fix it

- Document the correct code for future shipments

- Update your systems to prevent recurrence

Conclusion

HS code errors are among the most common - and most preventable - causes of customs delays in Dubai. By understanding these 5 common mistakes and implementing the prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of costly delays.

**Summary of 5 Errors:**

1. Wrong code length (6/8 vs 12 digits)

2. Classification by name instead of function

3. Using outdated codes

4. Ignoring material composition

5. Misclassifying sets and kits

**Prevention Strategy:**

- Use validation tools before every submission

- Verify against current tariff

- Consider function, not just product name

- Document successful classifications

- When in doubt, get expert help

**Start Preventing Delays Today:**

Use our [AI HS Code Search](/ai-hs-search) to get accurate classification suggestions, then verify with our [HS Code Converter](/) to ensure correct format. These free tools can save you thousands in delay costs.