If you have ever filled a shipping form and stopped halfway wondering, “What HS Code should I use for this item?”, you’re not alone.

We know finding the right HS Code classification has always been one of the biggest challenges for shippers, businesses, and 3PLs. That’s why we introduced the AI HS Code feature — a smarter way to add accurate codes and simplify your shipping process.

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In this article, we’ll explain what HS Codes are and how our AI feature works best. Before then, read this post to Understand How Customs and International Shipping Works

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What Exactly Is an HS Code?

An HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is a standardised number used globally to classify traded products. It helps customs authorities know what your item is, so they can add the right duties, taxes, and import or export regulations. 

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For example:

• Product: “Men’s Cotton T-Shirt” → HS Code: 6109100000
• Product: “Bluetooth Headphones” → HS Code: 8518300000

See also: The Top 10 HS Codes you Need When Shipping Internationally

Technology continues to change how we live, work, and trade. From AI-driven customer support to automated warehouses, logistics has evolved to depend heavily on smart systems. So why should shipping be any different?

Every time you automate a small but crucial part of your workflow, you save time, reduce stress, and improve accuracy. That’s exactly what our AI HS Code does for you.  

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How the AI HS Code Works

Instead of spending hours cross-checking codes, while itemising your invoices, you can now let AI handle it in seconds. Here’s what it does:

1. AI Analysis

Once you type your product name in the app, the AI HS Code begins its analysis. It reads the product name, reviews global customs databases, and recommends the most accurate classification. Thus, you don’t need to guess anymore because the system does it all for you.

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2. Smart Product Recognition

This feature understands natural language and identifies important product attributes such as material, category, or function. For instance, if you enter “Bluetooth Headphones,” it recognises the product type and instantly suggests HS Code 8518300000. All you need do is review the suggestion before saving it.

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3. Intelligent Learning and Accuracy

We trained the AI HS Code using thousands of verified product classifications and international trade datasets. Over time, it continues to improve based on usage data. In other words, the more you use it, the smarter it becomes. 

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4. Integrated Experience

The AI HS Code feature is fully integrated into your Terminal Africa dashboard. This means you can classify products and generate invoices in one place.  

Here’s a guide on How to Book an Air Cargo Shipment  

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Why the AI HS Code Matters  

Accuracy and speed are the backbone of global trade. Even a small invoice error can cause misclassification or penalties. The AI HS Code feature removes that risk and ensures compliance.

Here’s why it matters for your business:

• Fewer shipping errors:  Every shipment depends on accurate product classification. The AI reduces human error and ensure your goods are labeled properly.  
• Faster customs clearance: Customs officers use HS Codes to determine how to process goods. When your codes are accurate, your shipments gets cleared on time. 
• Lower operational stress: Manually itemizing invoices and cross-checking codes can take hours. But with automation, that process happens in seconds.  
• Smarter decision-making: Every time the AI HS Code generates results, it also organizes your product data in a consistent, structured way. That gives you better tracking, and insights you can use to manage pricing, taxes, and logistics effectively.  
• Better compliance: The AI HS Code feature helps you stay compliant across regions. This ensures that your shipments meet customs requirements no matter where they’re going. 

If you manage a 3PL (third-party logistics) company, the benefits are even more. You can process multiple clients’ shipments simultaneously without slowing down operations. The feature helps you minimize manual data entry and bottlenecks.

Simply put, the AI HS Code feature gives you confidence, consistency, and control — three things that every business needs to move goods across borders successfully.

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FAQs

Is the HS Code the same in every country?

The first six digits of the HS Code are globally standardised by the World Customs Organization (WCO). However, other countries may add extra digits for further classification. 

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What happens if I use the wrong HS Code on my shipment?

Using an incorrect HS Code can result in higher or unexpected duties and taxes, shipment delays, or customs rejection. 

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Does the Terminal app have the AI HS Code feature?

Yes, the AI HS Code feature is now fully available on our app. It’s integrated directly into your dashboard.

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How accurate is the AI HS Code feature?

It’s 99.9% accurate. The Code has been trained with thousands of verified product data.

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Can 3PL companies and businesses use the AI HS Code for bulk shipments? 

Absolutely. Third-party logistics and other businesses can use the AI HS Code feature in their Terminal account.

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Getting Started With Terminal Africa

Curious how AI can simplify your shipping? Get in touch!

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At Terminal Africa, our all-in-one platform makes cross-border shipping effortless. You can book shipments, select couriers and rates, and track deliveries in real time. And now, with our new AI-powered HS Code feature, you can classify your items accurately and ship smarter than ever.

👉 Contact us and start shipping smarter today.

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