Trade Term: Schedule B

You went to mail a shipment and your carrier asked you to provide them a Schedule B number.

What is that? A Schedule B number is a 10-digit number used in the United States to classify physical goods for export to another country. The Schedule B is based on the international Harmonized System of 6-digit commodity classification codes. There is a Schedule B number for every physical product, from paperclips to airplanes.

Why do I need a Schedule B number?  Schedule B numbers are used by the Foreign Trade Division to collect and publish the U.S. export statistics. Schedule B numbers are required to be reported in the Automated Export System when shipments are valued over $2,500 or the item requires a license.

How do I get one? You can find your Schedule B number using the online Schedule B Search. My colleague Justin wrote an earlier blog post on how to use the search.  For even further guidance, watch our training video below.  If you need export classification assistance, email ftd.scheduleb@census.gov or call 1-800-549-0595, Menu Option #2.

Don’t forget! Every physical good has a Schedule B number. Join us in our efforts to maintain accurate trade statistics, and classify your product using the correct Schedule B number.