HSN Code List & GST Rate Finder 

What is HSN Code? 

The Harmonized System of Nomenclature or HSN has been developed by the WCO or  World Customs Organization for giving a code to the various goods around the globe in a proper manner for a taxation system for finding different types of products. HSN has more than five thousand different products, and this was initiated in the year 1988. It is quite widespread and has been adopted in greater than two hundred countries for proper classification, using the base for various tariffs and also for the collection of the international trade statistics.

How does HSN code work?

HSN code has greater than five thousand different commodity groups each of them was identified by a 6 digit code that is arranged in a logical and legal structure. HSN code is well supported by some rules to achieve a uniform structure.

GST HSN Code Example and Format

The main structure of HSN has 21 Sections along with 99 Chapters, plus a total of 1,244 headings which have 5,224 subheadings. So every Section has various Chapters and each of the Chapters has various Headings. Further, each Heading has smaller Subheadings. While the Chapters and Sections have different products or goods, the Subheading and Heading denote these products in some detail.

Why is the GST HSN Code Important?

This HSN code is generally accepted across the world to classify different products which makes it easy for the HSN Code Finder for identifying various goods for foreign and domestic trade. It is also used in gathering data for understanding domestic and foreign in a better way. So, the HSN code aids the government in choosing different macroeconomic policies which are related to the trade practices of different goods..

Why is the GST HSN Code Important?

The GST HSN Code is relevant for all businesses involved in the sale, purchase, import, export, or manufacture of goods. It helps ensure accurate classification of products, correct GST rate application, and seamless tax compliance.

The following entities should use HSN codes:

• Manufacturers for classifying products and determining applicable GST rates.
• Traders and wholesalers for accurate invoicing and GST return filing.
• Retail businesses and e-commerce sellers for compliant tax reporting.
• Importers and exporters for customs clearance and international trade documentation.
• MSMEs and large enterprises registered under GST.
• Accountants and tax professionals responsible for GST compliance and reporting.

Using the correct HSN code helps businesses avoid classification errors, claim input tax credit accurately, and maintain compliance with GST regulations.

Why is HSN important under GST?

HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) plays a vital role under the GST framework by providing a standardised classification system for goods. It helps businesses identify the correct GST rate applicable to products, ensuring accurate tax calculation and compliance. The use of HSN codes reduces classification disputes, simplifies GST return filing, and enables uniform reporting across industries. Since HSN is recognised internationally, it also facilitates smoother import and export transactions by maintaining consistency in product classification across countries. By adopting HSN codes, businesses can improve invoice accuracy, claim input tax credit correctly, and avoid penalties arising from incorrect tax reporting

Services Accounting Code (SAC) in GST

Like HSN code finders, codes meant for services are named SAC or Services Accounting Code. As goods, services too are classified evenly for taxation, measurement, and recognition purposes.

The Central Board of Indirect Tax issues SAC to classify each service. These codes are used when generating invoices against the services rendered.

Format of SAC

The SAC code comprises a unique 6-digit number that includes two numbers each for Heading, Chapter, and Subheading.

One can understand this with the help of an example given below:

SAC code meant for certification services and Legal documentation concerning copyrights patents, copyrights, and other intellectual property rights is 998213

The first two digits are the same for all services i.e. 99

The next two digits (82) stand for nature of service, in this case, legal services – Heading

The last two digits (13) stand for the detailed nature of service, i.e., legal documentation for patents – Subheading.

Declaration of HSN Code for Goods and Services

Under GST, businesses are required to mention HSN codes for goods and SAC codes for services on tax invoices and GST returns. The number of digits required depends on turnover and transaction type. Proper declaration ensures correct GST reporting, reduces classification disputes, and facilitates smooth tax compliance.

Aggregate Annual Turnover	HSN Code Requirement
Up to ₹5 crore	4-digit HSN code
Above ₹5 crore	6-digit HSN code
Imports and Exports	8-digit HSN code

GST HSN Finder – Search HSN & SAC Codes

The GST HSN Finder is a useful tool that helps businesses, traders, and professionals identify the correct HSN code for goods and SAC code for services. Finding the right code is essential for applying the correct GST rate, generating compliant invoices, and filing accurate GST returns.

Steps to Search HSN or SAC Codes

1. Visit the GST portal or a trusted HSN code database.
2. Enter the product or service name in the search field.
3. Review the matching HSN or SAC codes displayed.
4. Verify the product description and GST rate associated with the code.
5. Select the most appropriate code based on the nature of your goods or services.
6. Use the identified code in invoices, e-way bills, and GST returns.

Using the correct HSN or SAC code helps minimise errors, avoid notices from tax authorities, and ensure seamless GST compliance.

How can I find my product in HSN list and its relevant HSN Code?

You are required to follow the following steps in order to get the HSN codes for GST:

• Step 1: Firstly, you need to visit the homepage of the GST portal – https://services.gst.gov.in/services/searchhsnsac and then enter the login details like Username and Password.
• Step 2: Then you have to click on Services > User Services > Search HSN/SAC code. Then the HSN checkbox is required to be clicked.
• Step 3: Then from the Tax-Type drop-down list you have to select the tax type that you are searching for.
• Step 4: Now, the HSN code has to be entered or the name of the chapter whose rates need to be looked for under the “Search HSN Chapter by Name or Code.”
• Step 5: Now, you need to enter the HSN code of the goods whose tax rates are looked for under the “Search HSN Code” category. Then the appropriate dates from the calendar have to be selected in the “Effective Period” category.
• Step 6: Once all the details are filled in the “Search” option needs to be clicked.

While searching for SGST from the Tax Type list, you are also required to select the state for which you wish to check the tax rate.

For knowing SAC codes, you have to follow the steps listed below:

• Step 1: First of all the SAC checkbox needs to be clicked. Then you have to search the tax type you are searching for in the Tax-Type drop-down list.
• Step 2: Select the tax type you are searching for in the Tax-Type drop-down list.
• Step 3: The next step is entering the Service Classification Code (SAC) whose rates you are searching under the “Service by Name or Code.”
• Step 4: Further the appropriate dates from the calendar need to be selected in the “Effective Period” category.
• Step 5: Last but not least the “Search” option needs to be clicked and the details will be visible on the screen.

What is GST HSN Code in India?

If one is importing and exporting it is essential for all the goods for having all eight digits of the HSN code under the GST.

• Chapter: There are a total of 99 chapters under the module of HSN.
• Heading: There are 1244 headings under the chapters.
• Subheading: Under the headings, there are 5224 subheadings.

Under the guidelines of WCO, the first 6 digits of the HSN code cannot be changed but the remaining four can be easily changed as it includes National tariff and Regional tariff which are changed less frequently by the customs authority of any country.

HSN code list section-wise

Sections	HSN Code List
Section 1	Animal products and live animals
Section 2	Products of vegetable
Section 3	Vegetable or animal oils and fats and its products of cleavage, edible fats prepared, vegetable or animal waxes
Section 4	Prepared foodstuffs, spirits,  beverages, tobacco, vinegar, and tobacco substitutes that are manufactured
Section 5	Mineral products
Section 6	Product of allied or the chemicals industries
Section 7	Articles and plastics thereof, articles and rubber thereof
Section 8	Skins, raw hides, fur skins, leather, and articles, harness, saddlery  handbags, travel goods, animal gut articles and similar containers, (other than silkworm gut)
Section 9	Articles of wood, wood, charcoal wood, articles of cork, cork, straw manufacturers, of esparto, plaiting materials, wickerwork and basketwork
Section 10	Other fibrous of the cellulosic material, pulp of wood, (waste and scrap) recovered paper and paperboard, others articles
Section 11	Textile and textile articles
Section 12	Headgear, footwear, sun umbrellas, umbrellas, walking sticks, seat sticks, riding-crops, whips, parts, articles made, prepared feathers and others artificial flowers, human hair articles
Section 13	Articles of plaster, stone, asbestos, cement, similar materials, mica,, glass, ceramic products and others glassware
Section 14	Natural or cultured pearls, precious or semi-precious stones, precious metals, metal clad with precious metal, and articles thereof, imitation jewellery, coins
Section 15	Articles or base metals
Section 16	Mechanical appliances, machinery, parts, electrical equipment, sound reproducers, recorders, souch recorders, television image and reproducers, its parts and others accessories of article
Section 17	Aircraft, vehicles, associated transport equipment and vessels
Section 18	Photographic, optical, measuring, cinematographic, precision, checking, surgical or medical instruments and its apparatus, watches and clocks, parts, musical instruments, and its accessories
Section 19	Ammunition, arms and its parts & accessories
Section 20	Manufactured articles and miscellaneous
Section 21	Collectors’ pieces, art works, and antiques

HSN code chapter wise list

Below mentioned is the HSN Chapter code list:

Chapter Number	Description
Chapter 1	Poultry and live animals
Chapter 2	Edible offals and animal meat
Chapter 3	Fillets, fish, and some animals meat (aquatic )
Chapter 4	Eggs, honey, and other dairy products
Chapter 5	Inedible products of  animal (unspecified)
Chapter 6	Live trees, flowers, and plants
Chapter 7	Vegetables
Chapter 8	Fruits
Chapter 9	Coffee, tea and spices
Chapter 10	Grains and cereals
Chapter 11	Milling industry products
Chapter 12	Medicinal plants, fruits and seeds
Chapter 13	Gums, lac, vegetable SAP, resins and extracts
Chapter 14	Vegetable materials and products (unspecified)
Chapter 15	Oils, vegetable,  fats, and animal products
Chapter 16	Fish and and other vertebrates meat (preserved/prepared)
Chapter 17	Sugar confectionery, sugar, and bubble gums
Chapter 18	Cocoa and its products
Chapter 19	Pastry, bread, pizza, waffles
Chapter 20	Juices, fruits, jellies and jams
Chapter 21	Coffee, tea and some edible preparations
Chapter 22	Nonalcoholic beverages, vinegar and spirit
Chapter 23	Meals, residual products of starch, and pellets
Chapter 24	Tobacco and its products
Chapter 25	Marbles and salts
Chapter 26	Concentrates and mineral ores
Chapter 27	Petroleum, coal and other fossil fuels
Chapter 28	Inorganic chemicals and gases
Chapter 29	Hydrocarbons
Chapter 30	Pharma and blood products
Chapter 31	Unspecified products and fertilizers
Chapter 32	Tanning and colouring products
Chapter 33	Oils and cosmetics
Chapter 34	Waxes and soaps
Chapter 35	Enzymes and glues
Chapter 36	Industrial fireworks and explosives
Chapter 37	Cinematographic and photographic goods
Chapter 38	Clinical and chemicals wastes
Chapter 39	Plastic products
Chapter 40	Rubber and its products
Chapter 41	Rawhides and skins
Chapter 42	Leather products like wallets, bags, and handbags
Chapter 43	Artificial and raw fur products
Chapter 44	Wood charcoal and wood products
Chapter 45	Shuttlecock cork and natural
Chapter 46	Basketware, and plaiting materials, manufacturers straw, and wickerwork
Chapter 47	Wood pulp
Chapter 48	Paperboard, paper and newsprint
Chapter 49	Newspapers, printed books, and postal goods
Chapter 50	Silk
Chapter 51	Fine, coarse animal hair, wool, horsehair yarn and woven fabric
Chapter 52	Cotton
Chapter 53	Fabrics woven of paper yarn, vegetable textile fibres, and paper yarn
Chapter 54	Manmade filaments
Chapter 55	Manmade fibres staple
Chapter 56	Ropes, cables, nonwovens, felt, wadding, cordage, twine, special yarns, and articles thereof
Chapter 57	Textile floor coverings, carpets and others
Chapter 58	Lace, trimmings,  tapestries, tufted textile fabrics and embroidery,
Chapter 59	Laminated and coated fabrics textile, special fabrics woven
Chapter 60	Crocheted fabrics or knitted
Chapter 61	Clothing accessories which is either knitted or crochet and different articles of any apparel
Chapter 62	Clothing accessories which is neither knitted nor crochet and different articles of any apparel
Chapter 63	Sets, worn clothing worn textile articles, rags, and other textile articles
Chapter 64	Gaiters, parts of these articles and footwear
Chapter 65	Headgear parts
Chapter 66	Walking stick, umbrellas, and accessories
Chapter 67	Artificial flowers, wigs, false beards
Chapter 68	Plaster, mica cement, and other construction materials
Chapter 69	Ceramic products and bricks
Chapter 70	All glassware products including
Chapter 71	Silver, gold, pearls, diamond and precious metals
Chapter 72	Non alloy products and iron rods, iron material and steel,
Chapter 73	Iron tube, railway tracks, nails, containers, sanitary wares and needles
Chapter 74	Copper alloy products and copper products
Chapter 75	Nickel alloy products and nickel
Chapter 76	All types of aluminium products
Chapter 77	(Empty category and reserved for future use)
Chapter 78	Lead foils, lead sheets and lead
Chapter 79	Zinc dust, Zinc sheets and Zinc bars
Chapter 80	tin bars, tin, and profiles
Chapter 81	Magnesium, bismuth, cobalt, and base metals
Chapter 82	Cutlery, agricultural tools, knives and razors
Chapter 83	Bells, padlocks, base metal products and safe deposit lockers
Chapter 84	Machinery and industrial tools
Chapter 85	Electronic and electrical goods
Chapter 86	Locomotives and railway machinery
Chapter 87	Motor vehicles
Chapter 88	Satellites, aircraft, parachute
Chapter 89	Cargo vessels, ships, boats,
Chapter 90	Medical equipment, artificial organs, photographic, monitoring systems, optical fibres, lens, and cinematographic accessories
Chapter 91	Clocks and watches
Chapter 92	All types of musical instruments
Chapter 93	Military weapons and arms
Chapter 94	Household products, furniture and lighting
Chapter 95	Sports goods, electronic toys and consoles for gaming
Chapter 96	Pencils, pens, smoking pipes and educational equipment
Chapter 97	Antiques and arts
Chapter 98	Laboratory chemical, import projects and passenger baggage
Chapter 99	Services

Conclusion

HSN codes play a crucial role in GST compliance by ensuring accurate classification of goods and correct tax calculation. Whether you are a manufacturer, trader, exporter, or service provider, using the right HSN or SAC code helps avoid errors, simplifies GST return filing, and improves invoice accuracy. Businesses should regularly verify HSN classifications and stay updated with GST notifications to maintain compliance and prevent penalties.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between HSN and SAC codes?

HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) codes are used to classify goods, while SAC (Services Accounting Code) codes are used to classify services under GST. HSN applies to products, whereas SAC applies to services provided by businesses and professionals.

2. Is HSN code mandatory under GST?

Yes, HSN codes are mandatory under GST for most registered businesses. The number of HSN digits required depends on the taxpayer’s turnover and applicable GST regulations.

3. How can I find the correct HSN code for my product?

You can find the correct HSN code by using the GST portal’s HSN/SAC search tool or referring to the official HSN code list. Search using the product name and match the description carefully before selecting the code.

4. How many digits are there in an HSN code?

HSN codes can contain 2, 4, 6, or 8 digits depending on the level of classification. In India, GST reporting generally requires the use of 4, 6, or 8-digit HSN codes based on business turnover and transaction type.

5. Who issues HSN codes in India?

HSN codes are based on the global classification system developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). In India, their implementation and usage under GST are governed by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

6. What happens if the wrong HSN code is used?

Using an incorrect HSN code can lead to the application of the wrong GST rate, resulting in tax mismatches, notices from tax authorities, penalties, and compliance issues. Businesses should always verify the correct classification before invoicing.

7. Are HSN codes required on GST invoices?

Yes, businesses required to comply with HSN reporting rules must mention the appropriate HSN code on GST invoices. This helps ensure accurate tax calculation, reporting, and GST return filing.