Blog

Practical articles on HS classification, tariffs, landed cost, and global trade compliance from the Borderline Genius team.

12 min read
HS Sections and Chapters Explained: Understanding the Tariff Schedule
Learn how the Harmonized System is structured with a complete guide to its 21 Sections, 97 Chapters, and the classification principles that organize the tariff schedule.
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17 min read
The General Rules of Interpretation (GRI): How Goods are Actually Classified
The six General Rules of Interpretation govern every HS classification decision. Get a full walk-through of GRI 1 to 6, with worked examples and the errors that cost importers money.
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10 min read
Chapter Notes, Section Notes and Explanatory Notes: Which Ones Are Legally Binding?
Section and chapter notes are binding law. WCO Explanatory Notes are not. A clear hierarchy of HS interpretive authority, and what to do when they conflict.
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7 min read
Parts, Accessories or Complete Articles? How to Classify Components Under the HS
Parts, accessories or complete articles? The decision sequence for classifying components under the HS: Section XVI notes, parts of general use, GRI 2(a).
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7 min read
Classifying Sets, Kits and Composite Goods? How They're Classified Under the HS
Gift sets, starter kits and subscription boxes rarely classify the way people assume. How the retail set test, GRI 3(b) essential character and GRI 5 work.
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