Skip to main content

Best Practices for Product Descriptions

G
Written by Guido Kaspers
Updated over 2 months ago

The quality of your product descriptions plays a key role in meeting customer expectations.

Classification Descriptions

Accurate product descriptions are important for HS code classification. Here’s why:

  1. Improved Accuracy: Detailed descriptions lead to precise classifications, ensuring faster customs clearance and correct duty rates. Avoiding vague or irrelevant details prevents delays and re-submissions.

  2. Efficiency in Process: Providing relevant details smooths the classification process. Clear and specific descriptions ensure accurate classification, avoiding the need for revisions.

Best Practices for Classification Descriptions

To achieve accurate HS code classifications, focus on essential details about your items. Here are some dos and don'ts to guide you:

Do's

  • Be Specific and Relevant: Provide clear, concise information such as material composition and unique processing details (e.g., 100% cotton or freeze-dried).

  • Detail Composition: Mention the materials and any processes that might impact classification.

Don'ts:

  • Avoid Overly Vague or Detailed Descriptions: For instance, instead of "pants" or "blue pants with buttons and pockets," use "100% linen pants."

  • Exclude Brand Names: Brand names don’t aid classification and can be added separately.

  • Don’t Use Website Marketing Descriptions: These are often too descriptive and contain extraneous words.

  • Omit Colors: Colors typically don't impact HS codes and can lead to misclassification.

  • Use Consistent Language and Format: Avoid multiple languages and ensure your template is uniform.

  • Avoid Non-UTF-8 Characters: Emojis and special characters can cause issues.

Examples of Good and Bad Descriptions

Here are examples to illustrate the difference between effective and ineffective descriptions:

  • Too Vague: "leggings"

  • Useless Details: "These grey leggings are a must-have addition to your active wardrobe."

  • Perfect: "Women's athletic leggings"

Adhering to these best practices ensures that your product descriptions are effective, leading to more accurate classifications and smoother sales processes.

Did this answer your question?