Importing Archives - Supply Chain Game Changer™

A Brief History of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Codes!

Breaking Down an HTS Code!

Importers all over the world are required to use a harmonized tariff schedule code on their products, but what is an HTS code?

Well, it’s a set of numbers, usually between six and 10, that identifies a product so that a country’s government can quickly know what is in a shipment that’s coming to their shores, how much to tax the products in that shipment, and whether or not other agencies need to be involved (for regulated items such as some foods, drugs, alcohol, firearms, and more.

Here’s more on what a Harmonized Tariff Schedule, or HTS, code is and its history.

Breaking Down an HTS Code!

Importing From China! The Essential Guide!

Importers in the United States are required to use an HTS code on their imported shipments to facilitate the customs process.

For those of you asking what is HTS, it’s a number code that’s given to each imported item to identify and classify it for data, tax, and duty purposes.

But the numbers in the code all have a purpose and understanding each number of an HTS code can help importers more precisely classify their products to ensure they’re paying the correct amount of tax and duties during the import process.

Spotlighting Import/Export Professionals!

What’s the Difference Between a Freight Forwarder and a Customs Broker?

Customs experts are an often unsung, but important, part of strategic Logistics and Import/Export operations. Here’s the lowdown on what companies should be looking for when hiring import/export professionals, and what the talent picture looks like on the ground.

On the Argentus blog, we support our recruitment business by shining the light on all things Supply Chain Management. With a particular focus on talent issues, we give our perspective on developing trends in the field, emerging technologies, changing skill profiles, and hiring strategies.

As part of this effort, every once in a while like to take the time to focus on one particular discipline within Supply Chain. These are often roles or competencies that play a key part in effective strategic Supply Chain operations – but don’t get a lot of attention.

The goal is to help companies and hiring managers see the talent picture on the ground, and to help Supply Chain professionals decide the paths that their careers will take.

How to Negotiate with Chinese Suppliers!

Importing From China! The Essential Guide!

Knowing how to negotiate with Chinese suppliers is a critical skill for British businesses aiming to import goods. The process requires a clear understanding of both cultural nuances and the mechanics of a good deal and it isn’t just about getting a lower price, but about building a relationship that benefits both your UK business and the supplier in China.

It’s about finding a balance where quality, price, and timing meet your business needs without compromising the supplier’s ability to deliver.

With the right strategy, British companies can secure a competitive edge, ensuring their ventures into international trade are both profitable and sustainable.

How to Be a Successful Importer! (Infographic)

Common Mistakes in Importing and Exporting! (Infographic)

Selling products that came from abroad as a successful importer can be a pretty rewarding business, especially if there is a growing local market that can buy your goods. Imported products tend to be available for a cheaper price, and usually in high quality.

And with the rapid spread of globalization, new and commercial items from an international supplier could emerge, which gives importers instant access and offer it their own country maximizing their profits in the long run.

If you’re one of those aspiring entrepreneurs who are planning to start an importing business, then you should be aware of some tips that can help you thrive and succeed as the competition becomes tougher as the years go by.