In international trade,the Harmonized System code (HS Code) is an internationally standardized system for classifying goods,which is of great significance for accurate declaration and customs clearance of goods.Since March 1,2023,the European Union and some neighboring countries have implemented new regulations for incoming goods,undoubtedly presenting new challenges for importers and exporters.Against this backdrop,understanding and adapting to these new regulations,as well as accurately querying and using HS codes,have become urgent issues for enterprises to address.

I.Implementation of New EU Goods Regulations

Since March 1,2023,the European Union,Switzerland,Norway,and other countries have implemented stricter regulations for all goods passing through or entering their territories.According to these new regulations,regardless of the declared value of the goods,a good,complete,and detailed description along with at least a 6-digit HS code (Harmonized System code) must be provided.This means that every item,including product name,material,and purpose,must be accurately declared.Additionally,the new regulations require the provision of the recipients VAT and EORI numbers (Economic Operator Registration and Identification).

It is noteworthy that the EU has also introduced new regulations for invoices of all incoming goods.Goods without a 6-digit or longer HS code for the destination country on the invoice will be directly detained at European customs withoutprocessing.This regulation undoubtedly increases the difficulty of customs clearance,requiring all customers to provide invoices as required,with the 6-digit HS code of the destination country clearly indicated.Fortunately,the first six digits of Chinas current HS codes are compatible with those of Europe,which to some extent alleviates the burden on enterprises.

II.HS Code Query and Analysis for Components

As the core component of solar power generation systems,solar modules hold an important position in international trade.Understanding their HS codes is crucial for exporters.According to customs regulations,the HS code for solar modules is 85414020.

This code can be queried in the following two ways: first,by searching on the official customs website,entering the keyword "solar module," selecting the correct category and variable to obtain the customs code; second,by directly consulting customs staff to understand the relevant standards and regulations.

For the analysis of code 85414020,the first two digits "85" represent machinery/mechanical appliances and their parts,the third digit "4" stands for other machinery and mechanical appliances and their components,the fourth digit "1" indicates electric motors,generators,and conversion devices,and the last two digits "20" denote other conversion or regulation equipment.Thus,it can be seen that solar modules belong to the other components of electric motors,generators,and conversion devices.

(II) Reserve sufficient time

Faced with the EUs new goods regulations,enterprises need to be vigilant,strictly follow the regulations,accurately declare goods information,and ensure smooth customs clearance.Particularly when providing invoices,the 6-digit HS code of the destination country must be indicated to avoid goods being detained at European customs.

For specific products like solar modules,understanding their HS codes and accurately declaring them is a basic requirement.Enterprises can use the official customs website or directly consult customs officials to obtain accurate HS codes,ensuring smooth customs clearance for goods.