The Census Bureau updated the Automated Export System (AES) with changes to the Schedule B, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), and HTS Codes that are not valid for AES tables, the agency said in a July 5 email. The changes, which are "effective immediately," reflect the HTS update from July 1. "AES will accept shipments with outdated codes during a grace period for 30 days beyond the expiration date of June 30, 2019," the agency said. "Reporting an outdated code after the 30-day grace period will result in a fatal error."
Harmonized Tariff Schedule
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) provide classification provisions and duty rates for almost every item that exists. It is a system of classifying and taxing all goods imported into the United States. The HTS is based on the international Harmonized System, which is a global standard for naming and describing trade products, and consists of a hierarchical structure that assigns a specific code and rate to each type of merchandise for duty, quota, and statistical purposes. The HTS was made effective on January 1, 1989, replacing the former Tariff Schedules of the United States. It is maintained by the U.S. International Trade Commission, but CBP is responsible for interpreting and enforcing the HTS.