Improved commodity code validation for international shipments

We've updated our system so that it now checks the validity of all commodity codes before orders are submitted.

To do this, our system will be checking that the codes you've used are legitimate based on the first 6 digits (which is the required number for most services).

It won’t check that you’ve chosen the right codes for your items, just that the codes you have entered are genuine.

This check will be made when you submit the details of your contents declaration. It will also apply when adding bulk upload or shop import orders to your basket, and for orders made via API.

You will need to amend any codes that are highlighted as incorrect, before you can proceed with your booking.

Why is this necessary?

Commodity codes are required by customs authorities. This extra validation will help to ensure that your data is accurate and that your shipments avoid customs delays.

You can look up commodity codes using the UK government's official trade tariff database, or use our code finder tool, which is available at the contents declaration stage when making your booking.

Codes with more than 6 digits

Codes with 8-10 digits are still accepted - and for some services required. For example, DPD, FedEx and TNT still require 8 digits.

Please note that while the first 6 digits of a code are universally recognised, the remaining 4 digits can vary depending on the destination country. For our USPS service, for example, you will need to refer to the US government website for the correct 10-digit code.

Validate codes in your Product Library

We've also added a new feature to the Product Library that allows you to validate your saved codes at the click of a button.

Click the Validate Commodity Codes button in the top right corner.

A green check mark will show next to valid codes. Invalid codes will be highlighted in red. Click Edit to update them.

Header image: Agence Olloweb