Correct tariff classification is one of the most critical aspects of customs compliance. Misclassification can lead to delays, penalties, post-clearance audits, and unexpected duty liabilities. To support importers, exporters, and customs agents, many customs authorities publish official customs ruling databases containing binding tariff classifications and advance rulings.
These databases are invaluable reference tools, especially when classifying complex or unusual goods. Some even include product images, detailed descriptions, and legal reasoning behind classification decisions.
Below is a curated list of official customs ruling databases from around the world, used daily by customs professionals.
World Customs organisation
European Union (EU)
Binding Tariff Information (BTI) Database Click Here
The EU BTI database provides binding tariff classification decisions issued by EU Member States. BTIs are legally binding across the EU and are a key reference for consistent classification.
United States
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Rulings Online Search System (CROSS)
https://rulings.cbp.gov/
One of the most comprehensive customs ruling databases globally. Includes classification, valuation, and origin rulings, often with detailed product descriptions and images.
Canada
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) – Advance Rulings
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/ar-da/menu-eng.html
Official Canadian database covering advance rulings on tariff classification, origin, and valuation.
China
China Customs Classification & Ruling Information
http://english.customs.gov.cn/
Chinese Customs rulings and tariff classification guidance issued by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
United Kingdom
HMRC – Advance Tariff Rulings (ATaR)
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-advance-tariff-ruling
UK customs classification rulings issued by HMRC, legally binding for UK imports and exports.
Japan
Japan Customs – Advance Classification Rulings
https://www.customs.go.jp/english/tariff/index.htm
Japanese customs tariff and classification rulings supporting accurate trade with Japan.
India
Indian Customs – Advance Rulings
https://www.cbic.gov.in/entities/customs
Advance customs rulings issued under Indian customs law, including classification and valuation decisions.
Colombia
DIAN – Customs Classification Rulings
https://www.dian.gov.co
Colombian customs authority (DIAN) rulings and classification guidance for importers and exporters.
Australia
Australian Border Force – Tariff Advice & Rulings
https://www.abf.gov.au/importing-exporting-and-manufacturing/tariff-classification
Official Australian customs classification advice and rulings.
Taiwan
Taiwan Customs – Advance Ruling System
https://web.customs.gov.tw
Tariff classification and customs rulings issued by Taiwan Customs.
Türkiye (Turkey)
Turkish Customs – Binding Tariff Information
https://ticaret.gov.tr
Türkiye’s customs authority provides tariff classification guidance and binding decisions.
Ukraine
State Customs Service of Ukraine
https://customs.gov.ua
Ukrainian customs rulings and tariff classification guidance.
Mauritius
Mauritius Revenue Authority – Customs Rulings
https://www.mra.mu/customs
Tariff classification guidance and customs rulings for trade with Mauritius.
Peru
SUNAT – Customs Classification Rulings
https://www.sunat.gob.pe
Peruvian customs authority providing classification rulings and tariff guidance.
Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)
Unified Customs Tariff & Classification Decisions
https://www.eaeunion.org/
Covers Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia with unified tariff classification decisions.
Ecuador
SENAE – Customs Classification Rulings
https://www.aduana.gob.ec
Ecuadorian customs authority rulings and tariff classification guidance.
Thailand
Thai Customs Tariff & Ruling Service
https://tariffeservice.customs.go.th/ITRF/
Official Thai customs tariff and classification ruling database.
South Korea
Korea Customs Service – UNI-PASS Rulings
https://unipass.customs.go.kr/clip/index.do
Korea Customs Service system providing advance rulings and tariff classifications.
Norway
Norwegian Customs – Tariff & Classification (TASS)
https://www.toll.no
Norwegian customs tariff information and classification guidance.
Why These Databases Matter for Customs Compliance
Using official customs ruling databases helps businesses and customs agents to:
- Improve HS code accuracy
- Reduce audit and penalty risk
- Support defensible classification decisions
- Align with customs authority interpretations
- Speed up clearance and reduce disputes
For customs agents, these databases are essential tools for delivering compliant, professional advice to clients.
Final Note
Always remember that binding rulings are jurisdiction-specific. A ruling in one country does not automatically apply in another, but it can still be a valuable reference point when analysing similar goods.
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