Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about HTS codes, AD/CVD duties, and CVDar.
What is an HTS code?
The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code is a 10-digit number used by US Customs to classify imported goods. The first 6 digits are internationally standardized; the last 4 digits are US-specific statistical suffixes. Every product entering the US must be assigned an HTS code.
What are AD/CVD duties?
Anti-Dumping (AD) and Countervailing Duties (CVD) are additional tariffs imposed on imported goods found to be sold below fair market value (dumping) or subsidized by foreign governments. These duties can range from a few percent to over 500% and apply on top of normal tariff rates.
What is Section 301?
Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 gives the US President authority to impose tariffs on imports from countries that engage in unfair trade practices. The most well-known Section 301 tariffs are the additional 25% duties on many Chinese goods, implemented starting in 2018.
How accurate is CVDar's AI classification?
Our AI achieves 86.5% top-3 accuracy at the 6-digit HTS subheading level, using a RAG-enhanced DeepSeek model. This means that in 86.5% of cases, the correct HTS code appears within the top 3 candidates returned. We always show multiple candidates so you can verify.
Can CVDar replace a licensed customs broker?
No. CVDar is an informational tool designed to help importers estimate duties and identify potential AD/CVD risks. It is not a substitute for professional customs brokerage advice. Always verify classifications with a licensed customs broker before filing.
How is the landed cost calculated?
Landed cost = Customs Value × (Base Duty Rate + Section 301 Rate + AD/CVD Rate). Base duty comes from the HTS schedule's MFN (Most Favored Nation) rate. Section 301 and AD/CVD rates are added on top when applicable based on the HTS code and country of origin.
Which countries are covered?
We support duty calculations for 10 major trading partners: China, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Germany. Section 301 tariffs currently apply to goods from China. AD/CVD orders cover 30+ countries.
How often is the data updated?
HTS tariff data is based on the current year's USITC tariff schedule. Section 301 data reflects the latest Federal Register publications. AD/CVD orders are updated monthly from official ITA/Enforcement & Compliance sources. Rate changes may take 1-2 weeks to appear.
What's included in the free plan?
The free plan includes unlimited basic HTS search, 10 AI-powered classifications per month, full access to Section 301 and AD/CVD duty data, and the landed cost calculator. Upgrade to Pro for 1,000 AI classifications and search history.
Where does the data come from?
All data comes from official US government sources: HTS codes from the US International Trade Commission (USITC), Section 301 tariffs from the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR), and AD/CVD orders from the International Trade Administration (ITA) Enforcement & Compliance division.
Can I export the data?
Data export (CSV) is available on Pro and Team plans. You can export search results, duty calculations, and AD/CVD order details for use in your own systems or spreadsheets.
Is there an API?
A REST API for programmatic access is planned for the Team plan. This will allow integration with your ERP, customs filing software, or procurement systems. Contact us at hello@cvdar.com for early access.
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