HS and TARIC code classification can feel complicated, but with the right product description, ELISA does the heavy lifting for you. Whether you’re shipping globally or just want to avoid customs headaches, providing a good description is the first step to getting it right.
And don’t worry, good descriptions don’t mean long descriptions. In fact, short and simple (but accurate) is exactly what you need.
Why Good Descriptions Matter for Classification
The most important thing you can do for accurate classification is give a clear, detailed description of your product. ELISA uses this info to determine the correct code. Here’s why it matters:
- More accurate classifications, which means faster customs clearance and correct duties.
- Fewer delays—vague or off-topic descriptions might need to be fixed before your item can be classified.
- You’re the expert on your products, so the better you describe them, the better ELISA works for you.
How to Write Effective Descriptions
It’s all about balance. You want to give enough detail to classify the item correctly, but not so much that you confuse the process. Ask yourself:
- What is it?
- What’s it made of?
- Is there anything special about how it’s made or used?
Best Practices: The Do’s and Don’ts
✅ DO:
- State what the item is: Be specific (e.g., “men’s leather sandals”).
- List the material: This can change the HS code (e.g., “polyester,” “aluminum”).
- Mention processing: If it affects classification, include it (e.g., “freeze-dried,” “hand-woven”).
- Mention intended use: If it affects classification, include it (e.g., “industrial use,” “household use”).
❌ DON’T:
- Be too vague: “Shirt” won’t be enough..
- Get too detailed: No need for colours, patterns, or marketing fluff.
- Use brand names: Stick to product type, not labels.
- Include colors: They don’t affect codes and can cause errors (like mistaking “oatmeal” for food!).
- Mix languages or emojis: Keep it clean and simple.
- Contradict yourself: Pick one—women’s, children’s, or babies’.
- Use special characters: Stick to plain text (UTF-8).
Good vs. Bad Classification Descriptions
Here are some examples to help you get it right. Notice how the best descriptions are clear, concise, and focused on what really matters.
| Too Vague | Useless Details | Just Right |
| Shoe | These grey and pink sneakers 👟 are perfect for summer! | Women’s athletic shoes with leather upper |
| Blouse | Pink floral blouse with lilac design 🌸, made for warm weather | Women’s 100% cotton blouse |
| Shirt | Nike t-shirt with logo in front | Men’s 100% polyester t-shirt |
| Mug | Bright yellow coffee mug with “Best Dad Ever” text | Ceramic drinking mug |
| Jacket | Cozy winter jacket with fur-lined hood and multiple zippers | Men’s down-filled nylon jacket |
| Toy | Fun plush toy for kids aged 3+ | Stuffed animal toy made of polyester |
| Blanket | Soft beige throw blanket for your living room | 100% wool woven blanket |
| Food | Delicious and healthy fruit mix | Freeze-dried strawberry slices |
A Few More Tips
- If you’re dealing with sets or kits, each item may need its own classification. ELISA’s manual classification feature can help with more complex situations.
- Not sure about the exact material or details? Check with your supplier or manufacturer—it’s worth getting right the first time.
ELISA: Smart, Fast Classification at Scale
ELISA is built to make your life easier. It combines real trade data with machine learning to classify your products quickly and accurately. Whether you’re uploading one item or thousands, ELISA gets the job done in seconds, so you can focus on running your business.
