Awareness of GST rates requires an understanding of the 8-digit HSN code. It is a system of classification and identification for goods and services. Businesses and government organizations use this code to make sure that the proper GST rate is applied to products and services. The code is also used to evaluate whether certain GST exclusions and advantages are applicable to particular goods and services. Here is a detailed explanation of The 8-Digit HSN Code in GST.
The term “HSN code” stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature code. As a multipurpose international product nomenclature, the World Customs Organization (WCO) initially proposed a unique code for all goods intending to apply the classification of goods all over the world uniformly. India began using HSN codes in 1986 to categorize goods and items for Customs and Central Excise tariff duty. GST invoices use the same HSN tariff numbers for Customs.
The HSN starts with a 6-digit code. The Customs and Central Excise authorities inserted 2 additional numbers for clarity purposes. The defined HSN code has a total of 8 digits. The GST chapter number is shown by the first two digits. The chapter headings are indicated by the next two digits. The following two digits denote a subheading, and the last two digits denote a further subheading. The classification of the goods in the HSN code is done under 21 sections, 99 chapters, 1244 headings, and 5224 subheadings.
The GST HSN Code is mainly used by traders and dealers, there are different types of HSN codes such as 2-digit codes, 4-digit codes, and 8-digit codes. Dealers/ traders can select any of the given codes based on their business activity. The GST HSN Code List works like-:
Business Turnover Limit |
Requirement for HSN Code |
Turnover is not more than INR 1.5CR |
No need for HSN Code |
If in between INR 1.5CR to INR 5CR |
Then there is a requirement for 2 digit HSN Code for business activity |
Turnover is more than 5CR |
There is a need to opt for a 4-digit HSN Code for trading/business activity |
In the case of international trading and import-export business |
Need for 8-digit HSN Code for business activity |
The product listing relies mainly on the 8-digit HSN code lists with GST rates. The understanding of the tariff or duty is made simpler by these codes for both buyers and sellers. The eight-digit HSN code lists with GST rates are generally divided into six categories: clothing, footwear, textiles, home furnishings, furniture, and toys.
In conclusion, the 8-digit HSN code is a special identification number that can be used to determine a variety of information about a product, including its GST rate. Each HSN code for a product is unique. The World Customs Organization is responsible for developing the HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature). All of the nations that are under the WCO have similar HS codes. The first two digits identify the nation in which it was produced. The following six give precise codes for each sort of good.
80G & 12A Registration Rules in India Introduction In India, non-profit organisations can register under 12A to get income tax…
What if You Don't File LLP Returns for 3 Years? Introduction LLP annual filing in India may seem like a…
Realistic LLC Formation Costs in the US for Indian Entrepreneurs Introduction Starting an LLC in the US as an Indian…
LLC Annual Compliance: Mistakes Indian Entrepreneurs Commonly Make in the US Introduction Starting an LLC and registering it with the…
LLC Benefits in the US That Indian Companies Often Overlook Introduction Starting a business in the United States is a…
Compliance Calendar for the Month of August 2025 As we step into August 2025, it’s important for businesses, professionals, and…
Leave a Comment