Binding Tariff Rulings
Secure Absolute Certainty for Commodity Code Classification
Correct commodity code classification is the foundation of all customs compliance. A wrong code can lead to underpaid duty, seizure of goods, or significant financial penalties. A Binding Tariff Information decision removes this risk by providing a legally binding ruling from HMRC on the classification of your products.
At Readyset, we architect the technical submissions required to secure these rulings. We ensure your goods are classified with absolute precision, providing your business with a three year guarantee of duty rate stability and regulatory peace of mind.
A Binding Tariff Information decision is a formal ruling that confirms the correct commodity code for your goods. While many traders rely on their own interpretation of the Trade Tariff, a BTI is a legal guarantee. Once issued, it must be accepted by customs authorities across the UK, ensuring that the duty rate you expect is the duty rate you pay.
This procedure is essential for businesses importing complex, novel, or high value products where the distinction between tariff headings is subtle but the financial impact is large. We help you move beyond the uncertainty of self classification, providing a robust legal shield for your imports.
What are the benefits?
Total Legal Certainty: Eliminate the risk of HMRC disputing your commodity codes or issuing retrospective duty demands.
Guaranteed Duty Rates: Secure your financial forecasting by locking in the specific duty and VAT rates for your products for three years.
Pre Arrival Clearance: Simplify the customs entry process by providing a pre approved ruling number that speeds up border crossings.
Audit Immunity: A BTI provides a definitive defense during customs audits, ensuring your past declarations are beyond challenge on classification grounds.
Global Consistency: Ensure that your entire supply chain uses the same verified codes, reducing friction in international logistics.
The Technicalities
Securing a BTI requires a deep understanding of the General Interpretative Rules and the complex Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System. Readyset manages this entire technical architecture on your behalf.
Our technical oversight includes:
Technical Product Analysis: We review your product specifications, chemical compositions, or engineering drawings to determine the precise technical characteristics that dictate classification.
GRI Application: We apply the General Interpretative Rules to justify why a specific code is legally superior to other potential headings.
Evidentiary Submission Management: We compile and submit the required technical dossiers, samples, and brochures to HMRC, acting as your technical lead throughout the evaluation process.
Ruling Integration: We ensure your BTI rulings are correctly mapped into your digital customs records and shared with your freight forwarders for consistent application.
How does it work?
Why Readyset?
Commodity code disputes are a leading cause of customs penalties and supply chain delays. Readyset specialises in the high level technical analysis required to secure favourable and accurate rulings. We build a technical argument that protects your business from the volatility of customs interpretations.
We ensure your classification strategy is a permanent asset, allowing you to import with confidence while we master the technical details.
Guarantee Your Customs Accuracy
Do not leave your duty liability to interpretation. Contact us today to secure a Binding Tariff Information ruling and protect your business from classification risk.