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GST & Customs Classification

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HSN KNOWLEDGE CENTRE

Understand classification with confidence

A practical guide to how HSN codes are structured, applied, and used across GST compliance workflows.

description Reviewed September 2026
THE FOUNDATION

What is the HSN Code?

The Harmonized System of Nomenclature is a globally standardized method for classifying traded goods. Developed and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO), its first six digits are shared internationally, helping customs and tax authorities identify the same product consistently across borders.

6 digits International standard
200+ Countries and economies
5,000+ Product classifications
ANATOMY OF A CODE

How HSN Codes Work

Each added pair of digits narrows the classification. In India, the final two digits create the national tariff item used for the most precise GST treatment.

84
Chapter Machinery and equipment
8471
Heading Data processing machines
847130
Subheading Portable digital machines
84713010
Tariff item Personal computers

Read left to right: each stage retains the digits before it and adds more product specificity.

WHY IT MATTERS

5 Key Benefits

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Uniformity

A shared language for identifying goods across markets, teams, and tax systems.

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Simplification

Faster classification reduces manual interpretation and operational friction.

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Compliance

Accurate codes support correct GST rates, invoices, returns, and audits.

visibility

Transparency

Clear descriptions make tax treatment easier to validate and explain.

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Compatibility

HSN aligns Indian GST classification with the global WCO framework, making cross-border trade and customs documentation more consistent.

SERVICES CLASSIFICATION

Services Accounting Code (SAC) in GST

While HSN codes classify goods, the Services Accounting Code (SAC) classifies services under GST. SAC codes are 6-digit identifiers developed by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to ensure uniform taxation of services across India. Every registered taxpayer providing services must mention the applicable SAC code on their invoices and GST returns.

ANNOTATED EXAMPLE — SAC 998213
99
Section Services (all SAC codes begin with 99)
9982
Major Group Legal and accounting services
99821
Minor Group Legal services
998213
Service Code Corporate legal advisory services
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Applicable GST Rate: 18%

SAC 998213 attracts 18% GST. Always verify the latest CBIC notification before invoicing.

HSN Goods — 2, 4, 6, or 8 digits
SAC Services — always 6 digits
18% Most professional services

Frequently Asked Questions

HSN codes are used for the classification of goods, whereas SAC codes are used for services.

HSN code stands for “Harmonized System of Nomenclature”, a system for the classification of goods world-wide.

HSN codes are required to be mentioned on invoices or Bills of Supply, and in the GSTR-1 return.

HSN Codes are typically 6 digit codes. However, in India, we have 8 digit HSN codes where the first two digits represent the chapter number, the next two digits represent the heading number, the following two digits comprise the sub-heading, and the last two digits are the tariff item.

Four digit HSN codes comprise of the chapter number and heading only, whereas six digit HSN codes also comprise of the sub-heading of the product category.

SAC codes stand for Service Accounting Codes. They are similar to HSN codes, but are instead used for the classification of services.

HSN Code is the same as the Harmonised System Code (HS Code) in shipping. However, it is more commonly known as the HSN in India. Like the HS Code list, each of the HSN codes for import and export of goods comprises six digits.

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