Find the correct customs classification code for any product you're importing to Israel. Our database includes over 12,000 tariff items from the official Israeli customs tariff book, including HS codes (Harmonized System), customs duty rates, and purchase tax rates.
Whether you're importing electronics, clothing, food products, machinery, or vehicles - search by product name or browse categories to find the exact customs code and learn how much customs duty you'll pay.
What is an HS Code?
The HS Code (Harmonized System Code) is an international standard for classifying traded goods. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), this system is used by over 200 countries to identify products for customs purposes, taxation, and trade statistics.
Structure of HS Codes
HS codes consist of 6 to 10 digits:
- First 2 digits - Chapter (e.g., 85 = Electrical machinery)
- First 4 digits - Heading (more specific category)
- First 6 digits - Subheading (international standard)
- 7-10 digits - National classification (specific to Israel)
Why is the Correct HS Code Important?
- Customs Duty - Different codes have different duty rates (0% to over 100%)
- Import Permits - Some products require special licenses based on their code
- Trade Agreements - Correct classification determines eligibility for preferential rates
- Legal Compliance - Wrong classification can result in fines and shipment delays
How Much Customs Duty Will I Pay?
Israel customs duty varies by product category. Common rates include:
- Electronics - Usually 0% customs duty + 18% VAT
- Clothing - 6-12% customs duty + purchase tax + VAT
- Food products - Varies widely, some items have high protective tariffs
- Vehicles - 7-83% customs duty depending on type
The Customs Clearance Process
When a shipment arrives in Israel, an import declaration must be submitted to the Tax Authority. The declaration includes the customs code for each item, the value of the goods, country of origin, and other details. Based on the classification, customs duties, purchase tax, and VAT are calculated.
Free Trade Agreements
Israel has free trade agreements with many countries, including the European Union, United States, Canada, Mexico, Turkey, and more. Imports from these countries may be exempt from customs duty or enjoy reduced rates. To receive the benefit, you must present a certificate of origin proving the goods were manufactured in that country.
Purchase Tax and VAT
In addition to customs duty, certain products are subject to purchase tax - a special tax on luxury goods, alcohol, tobacco, vehicles, and certain electronic equipment. Purchase tax rates range from 5% to 95% depending on the product type. On top of everything (including customs and purchase tax), 18% VAT is added.
The Reform: What's Good for Europe is Good for Israel
The "What's Good for Europe is Good for Israel" reform came into effect in January 2025, allowing imports of products meeting EU standards (CE mark) without additional Israeli certifications. The reform is expected to save families approximately 500 NIS per month.
Products included in the reform:
- Home appliances - Refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, irons, hair dryers, hair straighteners, LED bulbs
- Toys and baby products - Toys for all ages, playpens and cribs, bassinets, mattresses, strollers, high chairs
- Kitchenware - Cups, plates, bowls, cutlery, disposable items, food processors, blenders, coffee machines
- Medical equipment - Medical devices, bandages and dressings
- Safety equipment - Helmets, personal protective equipment, baby car seats, fire detection and extinguishing equipment
- Textile products - Clothing, diapers, hygiene products
- Construction equipment - Water and sewage pipes, faucets and plumbing fixtures (from 2027)
Frequently asked questions
What is a customs (HS) code and how is it structured?
A customs code, based on the international HS (Harmonized System), identifies each product for classification and taxation. It has 6 to 10 digits: the first two are the chapter, four digits the heading, six digits are the international standard, and digits 7-10 are Israel's national classification.
How much customs duty is charged on imports to Israel?
The duty rate is set by the product's classification code and ranges from 0% to over 100%. For example, electronics are usually duty-free, while clothing carries roughly 6%-12%. The exact rate can be checked by item code in the official customs tariff book of the Tax Authority.
Do imported goods carry VAT and purchase tax?
Imports are subject to 18% VAT, calculated on top of the goods' value, the customs duty and any purchase tax. Purchase tax applies only to certain products - such as luxury goods, alcohol, tobacco, vehicles and some electronic equipment - at rates from 5% to 95% depending on the product.
Are imports from the EU or the US exempt from customs duty?
Israel has free trade agreements with many countries, including the European Union, the United States, Canada, Mexico and Turkey. Imports from these countries may be duty-free or enjoy a reduced rate, provided a certificate of origin showing the goods were made in that country is presented.
What is the "What's Good for Europe is Good for Israel" reform?
The reform took effect in January 2025 and allows importing products that meet EU standards and carry the CE mark without additional Israeli certifications. It covers a range of products such as home appliances, toys, kitchenware, medical equipment and safety gear.
How is customs clearance carried out when importing?
When a shipment arrives in Israel, an import declaration is filed with the Tax Authority, listing each item's customs code, the value of the goods and the country of origin. Based on the classification, the customs duty, purchase tax and VAT due are calculated before the shipment is released.