Today, we conducted a demonstration of HSCF, our HS code classification support system, for a group of Japanese companies.
With participants joining from multiple departments, we performed trials using their actual business cases. What this session highlighted once again was the sheer intensity and difficulty of HS code classification.
■ The Struggle: Wrestling with Fine-Print “Notes”
Until now, our clients have been navigating a mountain of “Section and Chapter Notes,” piecing together answers like a complex puzzle. Their heartfelt comment—”It’s just so complicated and exhausting”—left a lasting impression on me.
■ A “New Experience” Proposed by HSCF
During the demo, there were moments where the initial data provided was insufficient for a definitive classification. This is where HSCF truly shines.
By simply providing a quick supplement to the missing information in plain language, the system immediately re-evaluated and updated the results.
HSCF is not just a “mechanical tool” that spits out results from data entry. It facilitates a process of “reaching the right answer by ‘consulting’ an expert while filling in the blanks.” I truly believe this human-like interaction is what makes it so intuitive and user-friendly.
■ We’ll Walk with You Until You’re Fully Satisfied
Since we do not offer standalone trial licenses, we are committed to providing as many demonstrations as you need until you are completely convinced of its value.
Here is a polished, catchy, and approachable English version of your blog post. I have restructured it to grab the reader’s attention immediately and used formatting to make it highly scannable for busy trade professionals.
Do any of these scenarios sound a little too familiar in your daily trade operations?
The “Deadlock”: You’ve been staring at a product for an hour and just cannot finalize the HS code.
The “Knowledge Silo”: Everything grinds to a halt unless you ask your external customs broker or that one specific “guru” in the office.
The “FTA Time-Suck”: Origin work for FTAs or EPAs takes forever because verifying Tariff Shift (CTC) rules eats up your entire day.
Classification shouldn’t be a bottleneck. That’s why we built HSCF (HS Code Finder)—a decision-support tool that blends cutting-edge AI with expert-level trade know-how to take the weight off your shoulders.
Here is how HSCF is changing the game for trade compliance teams.
What exactly is HSCF?
Think of HSCF as your digital trade consultant. By inputting product names, specs, or even photos, the system uses AI to replicate the expert thought process, providing you with high-probability HS code candidates and—more importantly—the logic behind them.
Feature 1: AI Logic You Can Actually Trust
One of the biggest fears with AI is the “Black Box”—getting an answer without knowing why. HSCF solves this by being completely transparent.
Current & Future Ready: Based on HS 2022, with planned support for HS 2028.
Legal Backing: It doesn’t just give a number; it cites the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), Section/Chapter notes, and WCO Explanatory Notes.
The “Why” and “Why Not”: It explains why a specific code was chosen and why other similar codes were excluded.
The Benefit: You get an “explainable” HS code that is ready for audits, customs inquiries, or Chamber of Commerce certifications.
Feature 2: From Photos to Phrases—Flexible Input
Trade data is rarely perfect. HSCF is designed to handle the messy reality of the field.
Natural Language: Search using plain Japanese or English (e.g., “Rubber gasket for electric vehicles”).
Visual Search: Upload a smartphone photo, a technical drawing, or a spec sheet.
Instant Analysis: A single photo can produce estimated codes for Japan, the U.S., and the EU, along with confidence percentages.
Feature 3: Mastering the Multi-Country Maze (FTA/EPA Support)
In the real world, “HS6” is rarely enough. Different countries have different subheadings, and different trade agreements use different HS versions.
Destination Accuracy: Identify national subheadings (7th digit and beyond) to see applied tariff rates early.
Time Travel for FTAs: Using correlation tables, HSCF helps you identify the HS code version required at the time a specific FTA entered into force—a lifesaver for origin rule checks.
Feature 4: The “Smart Assistant” That Asks the Right Questions
If the information is too vague, HSCF doesn’t just guess. It acts like a consultant by providing a Checklist of Missing Info.
It might ask:
“Is this material EPDM or PTFE?” or “Is the structure foamed or non-foamed?”
This makes gathering info from your engineering or design teams much faster and more professional.
Feature 5: You Stay in the Driver’s Seat
HSCF is a support tool, not a final authority. We believe the final decision belongs to the compliance professional.
By providing a rock-solid rationale, HSCF becomes your best ally when:
Discussing classifications with customs brokers.
Defending your position during a customs audit.
Standardizing internal compliance reviews.
Conclusion: Create a Shared Language for Your Team
HSCF turns HS classification from a “solitary headache” into a shared, systematic process. No more relying on one person’s intuition; instead, your whole team can work from a unified, AI-enhanced knowledge base.
If HS classification is slowing down your FTA utilization or pushing your compliance team to their limit, it’s time to remove the bottleneck.
Ready to see it in action?
HSCF is more than just a search bar—it’s the future of trade compliance.
