HS Code Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide for Importers

Understanding the HS Code Saudi system is one of the most crucial steps for any business involved in importing products into the Kingdom. Whether you are a distributor, trader, manufacturer, or e-commerce seller, the HS code (Harmonized System code) determines how your product is classified, taxed, and cleared by Saudi customs and regulatory platforms like Saber and Fasah.

In this detailed guide, we explain what the HS Code Saudi Arabia is, why it matters, how to find the correct code, and how trusted compliance experts such as Tabseer can help make the process smoother.

What Is HS Code Saudi Arabia?

The HS Code (Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System) is an international classification used to identify products in global trade. Each product type is assigned a six-digit universal code, which countries—including Saudi Arabia—extend with additional digits to match national regulations and customs requirements.

In Saudi Arabia, HS codes are used by:

·         Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA)

·         Saber Platform (Saudi Product Safety Program)

·         Fasah (Customs Clearance Platform)

·         Regulatory bodies like SASO, SFDA, CITC, and others

Every import shipment must have the correct HS code to determine product category, customs duties, conformity requirements, shipment documents, and applicable technical regulations.

Why HS Code Matters in Saudi Arabia

Choosing the right HS Code Saudi Arabia is essential for:

1. Determining Customs Duties

Saudi customs applies specific duty rates based on HS codes. Even a small change in classification can significantly impact the cost of importing a product.

2. Identifying Required Certificates

HS codes determine which conformity certificates you need, including:

·         Saber Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)

·         Saber Shipment Certificate (SCoC)

·         SFDA approvals for food, cosmetics, medical devices

·         CITC approval for telecom products

·         IECEE certificate for electronics

If your HS code is incorrect, your product may face delays or complete rejection.

3. Ensuring Smooth Customs Clearance

Customs officers rely heavily on HS codes to verify product identity. Wrong classification leads to:

·         Shipment delays

·         Rejection in Saber

·         Additional fees or penalties

·         Requests for re-classification

4. Legal and Financial Compliance

Selecting an incorrect HS code—intentionally or by mistake—can result in penalties imposed by ZATCA and regulatory authorities.

How Saudi Arabia Assigns HS Codes

Saudi Arabia follows the GCC Unified Customs Tariff, which is based on the international 6-digit HS system. However, it may include 8-digit, 10-digit, or extended classifications for more detailed control.

Each HS code is structured as follows:

·         Chapter (2 digits): Main category (e.g., 85 = Electronics)

·         Heading (4 digits): Sub-category (e.g., 8516 = Electrical appliances)

·         Subheading (6 digits): Product classification (e.g., 851660 = Ovens, cookers)

·         National extensions: Added by Saudi Arabia for specific controls

How to Find the Correct HS Code in Saudi Arabia

Here are the most reliable ways to locate your official HS Code Saudi classification:

1. ZATCA Customs Tariff Browser

You can search the Saudi customs tariff by:

·         Product name

·         Product description

·         Chapter

·         Subheading

·         Duty rate

2. Saber Platform

When registering a product in Saber, the system requires you to enter an HS code. If the code triggers a technical regulation, Saber will automatically show the applicable rules.

3. Consulting Product Catalogs or Manufacturer Data

Technical product details help you choose the correct classification, especially for complex items like electronics and chemicals.

4. Professional Consultation with Compliance Experts

Because wrong HS codes can cause major delays, many companies rely on specialized agencies—such as Tabseer—to ensure accuracy.

Common HS Code Saudi Arabia Examples

Below are sample HS codes often used in Saudi imports:

·         Electronics: 85XXXX

·         Cosmetics: 3304XX

·         Food products: 21XXXX

·         Machinery: 84XXXX

·         Toys: 9503XX

·         Furniture: 9403XX

(Exact classification depends on each product’s specifications.)

HS Codes and Saber Platform

When importing to Saudi Arabia, understanding how HS codes work with Saber is essential:

Why HS Code Matters in Saber

·         Determines whether your product requires a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCoC)

·         Identifies the technical regulation your product must comply with

·         Ensures SASO-approved certification bodies evaluate your product correctly

If the HS code is incorrect, Saber will not allow you to complete product registration.

How Tabseer Helps With HS Code Classification

Tabseer is a leading conformity and regulatory consultancy in Saudi Arabia, specializing in product registration, Saber certification, and HS code classification.

Tabseer helps importers and manufacturers by:

·         Identifying the correct HS code for each product

·         Checking the applicable Saudi technical regulations

·         Determining required certificates (PCoC, SCoC, IECEE, SFDA, etc.)

·         Preparing documents for Saber and customs clearance

·         Reducing delays, rejections, and unexpected fees

With expert guidance from Tabseer, businesses avoid costly errors and ensure fast entry into the Saudi market.

Conclusion

The HS Code Saudi Arabia system plays a major role in customs clearance, conformity assessments, and compliance with local technical regulations. Using the wrong code can lead to shipment delays, increased duties, and regulatory problems. Therefore, identifying the correct HS code is essential for any importer entering the Saudi market.

With support from experienced compliance partners like Tabseer, companies can confidently classify products, secure the right certification, and streamline their import process.