{"id":383,"date":"2025-11-19T05:48:04","date_gmt":"2025-11-19T05:48:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/?p=383"},"modified":"2026-03-24T07:10:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T07:10:53","slug":"what-is-hsn-code-hsn-codes-list-in-gst-free","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/what-is-hsn-code-hsn-codes-list-in-gst-free\/","title":{"rendered":"What is HSN Code: HSN Codes List in GST | Free"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"809\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/What-is-HSN-Code-1.png\" alt=\"What is HSN code by Vyaparapp\" class=\"wp-image-494\" srcset=\"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/What-is-HSN-Code-1.png 809w, https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/What-is-HSN-Code-1-300x198.png 300w, https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/What-is-HSN-Code-1-768x506.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 809px) 100vw, 809px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group vy-toc-wrap\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><nav><ol><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#introduction\">Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#what-is-accounting-software\">What is HSN Code?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#the-new-gst-rates-tax-slabs-effective-from-22-september-2025\">Why is the HSN Code Important?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#why-small-businesses-need-accounting-software\">List of Common HSN Codes in GST<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#why-smbs-need\">Structure of an HSN Code<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#key-features\">How HSN Code Works in GST?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#how-can-businesses-adapt-to-this-change-in-rates\">When is HSN Code Mandatory?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#benefits-of-the-new-gst-structure\">How to Find the Right HSN Code?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#conclusion\">Benefits of Using the Correct HSN Code<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#common-mistakes-to-avoid\">Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#conclusion-1\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/nav><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"introduction\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ever noticed those random numbers printed next to items on a GST invoice? That\u2019s not a secret code; it\u2019s called an HSN code, and it quietly decides how much tax you pay. Whether it\u2019s a packet of biscuits, a T-shirt, or a mobile phone, every product in India has a unique HSN code under GST. It\u2019s like an Aadhar card for the products. In simple terms, it\u2019s a universal system that helps the government and businesses identify what\u2019s being sold and apply the right tax rate. This guide explains what is HSN code, why it matters, and shares a free list of HSN codes you can actually use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-accounting-software\">What is HSN Code?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>HSN stands for <strong>Harmonized System of Nomenclature<\/strong>, a global classification method developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO). It assigns a numeric code to every product traded internationally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In simple terms, the HSN code is like a product\u2019s fingerprint. It ensures that every product, from a pen to a refrigerator, has a globally recognized identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In India, under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) system, these codes are used to identify products, apply the correct tax rate, and make trade data uniform across states and countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-new-gst-rates-tax-slabs-effective-from-22-september-2025\">Why is the HSN Code Important?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group vy-munim\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>The HSN code in GST helps both the government and businesses in several ways:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Avoids confusion:<\/strong> Instead of writing long descriptions, businesses can use a short code.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensures correct taxation:<\/strong> Every HSN code corresponds to a specific GST rate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simplifies compliance:<\/strong> Easier filing of GST returns and invoices<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Supports global trade:<\/strong> Since it\u2019s international, it simplifies import and export classification.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Example: A seller of \u201ccotton shirts\u201d doesn\u2019t have to describe the product every time. He can simply use the HSN code <strong>6105<\/strong>, which universally refers to men\u2019s shirts made of cotton.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-small-businesses-need-accounting-software\">List of Common HSN Codes in GST<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a simple list of HSN codes you\u2019ll often see in GST invoices(with relevance to new GST rates) :<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>HSN Code<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Product \/ Description<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>New GST Rate (w.e.f 22 Sept 2025)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4011000<\/td><td>Milk &amp; cream<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4029110<\/td><td>Condensed milk \/ evaporated<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4031000<\/td><td>Yogurt &amp; fermented milk products<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4059020<\/td><td>Butter, ghee, dairy fats<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4062000<\/td><td>Cheese<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10011010<\/td><td>Wheat\/meslin<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10063020<\/td><td>Basmati Rice (packaged)<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11010000<\/td><td>Wheat flour (pre-packaged)<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>17019990<\/td><td>Sugar\/sugar products<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>19019090<\/td><td>Food mixes, bakery preparations<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>19054000<\/td><td>Bread, biscuits, cakes<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>210690<\/td><td>Ready-to-eat \/ food mixes<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>22011010<\/td><td>Packaged drinking water<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>22029990<\/td><td>Soft drinks \/ aerated beverages<\/td><td>40%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>23021010<\/td><td>Rice bran, cereal residues<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>33030010<\/td><td>Perfumes &amp; toiletry waters<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>33041000<\/td><td>Cosmetics, beauty care<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>34011120<\/td><td>Soaps, cleaning bars \/agents<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>39231010<\/td><td>Plastic packaging articles<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>40111090<\/td><td>Tyres &amp; inner tubes<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>42021110<\/td><td>Bags, handbags, leather goods<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>44101110<\/td><td>Plywood, veneer, particle board<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>48191010<\/td><td>Paperboard, cartons, boxes<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>62011100<\/td><td>Readymade garments<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>71082000<\/td><td>Gold (unworked)<\/td><td>3%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>71131110<\/td><td>Jewellery \/ precious stones<\/td><td>3%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>84151010<\/td><td>Air conditioners<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>85171211<\/td><td>Mobile phones\/smartphones<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>85285200<\/td><td>TVs, computer monitors<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>87031010<\/td><td>Cars (small\/mid)<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>87031090<\/td><td>Luxury \/ high-end cars<\/td><td>40%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>87111010<\/td><td>Motorcycles &amp; scooters<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>94011000<\/td><td>Furniture &amp; seating<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>94051010<\/td><td>Lamps, lighting fixtures<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>95030010<\/td><td>Toys<\/td><td>18%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>96031000<\/td><td>Toothbrushes, shaving items<\/td><td>5%<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>For all HSN codes, you can visit either <\/em><a href=\"http:\/\/gst.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>gst.gov.in<\/em><\/a><em> or <\/em><a href=\"http:\/\/cbic.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>cbic.gov.in<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Note: Tax rates may vary depending on government notifications.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-smbs-need\">Structure of an HSN Code<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An HSN code is made up of <strong>six to eight digits<\/strong>, structured as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Level<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Digits<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Meaning<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Chapter<\/td><td>First 2 digits<\/td><td>Broad category (e.g., Textiles, Machinery)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Heading<\/td><td>Next 2 digits<\/td><td>Type of product<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sub-heading<\/td><td>Next 2 digits<\/td><td>Specific variation<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>National code<\/td><td>Last 2 digits (optional in India)<\/td><td>Used for finer classification<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> For \u201cChocolate\u201d under HSN code <strong>1806.32<\/strong> \u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>18 \u2192 Chapter for Cocoa and products<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>06 \u2192 Heading for Chocolate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>32 \u2192 Subcategory for filled chocolate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-features\">How HSN Code Works in GST?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how the system works in everyday terms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Each product is assigned an HSN code from a list of HSN codes under GST.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>That code is entered on the invoice whenever goods are sold or purchased.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The GST portal uses the code to determine the applicable tax rate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When returns are filed, these codes help authorities verify details quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes the system consistent; no matter who\u2019s selling or buying, the code means the same thing everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-can-businesses-adapt-to-this-change-in-rates\">When is HSN Code Mandatory?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The need to mention an HSN code in a GST invoice depends on the size and nature of your business:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Annual Turnover<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>HSN Code Digits Required<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Where to Mention<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Up to \u20b95 crore<\/td><td>4 digits<\/td><td>Invoices and GST returns<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Above \u20b95 crore<\/td><td>6 digits<\/td><td>Invoices and GST returns<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Exporters &amp; importers<\/td><td>8 digits<\/td><td>Customs documentation<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>So, if you\u2019re a small business owner, you\u2019ll usually need 4-digit codes, while large traders or exporters must use all 6 or 8 digits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"benefits-of-the-new-gst-structure\">How to Find the Right HSN Code?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re not sure which code to use, follow these simple steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Use the official GST portal:<\/strong> It offers a search tool for HSN codes. Visit <a href=\"http:\/\/gst.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gst.gov.in<\/a> and go to the User Services under the Services tab, and click Search HSN code.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Search by product name:<\/strong> Type what you sell, for example, \u201cshoes,\u201d and the tool will show relevant codes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Refer to trade websites:<\/strong> Reliable sources like <a href=\"http:\/\/cbic.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cbic.gov.in<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/gst.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gst.gov.in<\/a>, or professional accounting blogs publish updated lists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use accounting software:<\/strong> Many modern systems automatically suggest the correct <strong>HSN code in GST<\/strong> when you create invoices.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\">Benefits of Using the Correct HSN Code<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Using accurate HSN codes saves you from errors and penalties. Here\u2019s why it matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accuracy:<\/strong> Ensures correct GST calculation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Efficiency:<\/strong> Speeds up invoice processing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Compliance:<\/strong> Keeps your returns accurate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Automation:<\/strong> When you use the best accounting software, it auto-fills HSN codes to save time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you use smart best <a href=\"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/free\/small-business-accounting-software\">accounting software for small businesses<\/a> like Vyapar, it can store your product list along with respective HSN codes, reducing manual work and chances of mistakes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"common-mistakes-to-avoid\">Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Using outdated or incorrect codes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copying codes from unrelated products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Not updating HSN when tax rates change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Missing digits (e.g., using 4 instead of 6 for large businesses).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Not updating the HSN code summary while filing returns, as it\u2019s mandatory.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid these errors, make sure your accounting software or GST filing tool is up to date with the latest list of HSN codes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion-1\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding what is HSN code is essential for anyone dealing with goods under GST. It\u2019s the foundation for identifying products and applying the right tax rate. With the right list of HSN codes, businesses can file returns accurately, avoid confusion, and stay compliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a student learning about taxation or a business owner managing invoices, using the correct HSN code in GST is non-negotiable. And if you\u2019re using reliable accounting software for a <a href=\"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/glossaries\/business-and-operation\/what-is-a-small-business\">small business<\/a>, it becomes even easier when the system classifies you, helping you stay one step ahead in compliance and efficiency.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"faq-section\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group vy-faq-section\">\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-item\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"vy-faq-question\"><b>Who needs to use the HSN Code?<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-answer\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All businesses registered under GST must use HSN codes on their invoices. However, the number of digits required depends on turnover. <\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-item\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"vy-faq-question\"><b>Is the HSN code applicable for services too?<br \/><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-answer\">\n<p><b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, the services use a separate classification called SAC (Service Accounting Code). Just like HSN codes, <a href=\"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/glossaries\/invoicing\/what-is-sac-code-in-invoice\">SAC<\/a> also helps classify what\u2019s being provided, but for services. <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-item\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"vy-faq-question\"><b>What happens if the wrong HSN code is used?<br \/><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-answer\">\n<p><b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using the wrong HSN codes can lead to the wrong tax rates, mismatched invoices, and even penalties during audits. Hence, referring to the proper codes for the required goods before putting them on the invoice is always recommended. <\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-item\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"vy-faq-question\"><b>Can I find a free list of HSN codes?<br \/><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-answer\">\n<p>Yes, absolutely. You can find an official and updated list of all HSN codes on the GST portal: <a style=\"font-size: revert;\" href=\"http:\/\/gst.gov.in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gst.gov.in<\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0 and on government resources like the CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs) website.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-item\">\n<ul>\n<li class=\"vy-faq-question\"><b>How can accounting software help with HSN codes?<br \/><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"vy-faq-answer\">\n<p>Modern accounting software makes handling HSN codes effortless. Tools like Tally, Zoho Books, QuickBooks, and Vyapar automatically fill in the correct HSN codes based on your product type. Update GST rates whenever there\u2019s a regulatory change. Generate error-free invoices and simplify return filing. This saves time, avoids manual mistakes, and ensures full compliance with GST rules.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Ever noticed those random numbers printed next to items on a GST invoice? That\u2019s not a secret code; it\u2019s called an HSN code, and it quietly decides how much tax you pay. Whether it\u2019s a packet of biscuits, a T-shirt, or a mobile phone, every product in India has a unique HSN code under&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":494,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-383","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-accounting-software"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=383"}],"version-history":[{"count":37,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2455,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/383\/revisions\/2455"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/494"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=383"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=383"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vyaparapp.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=383"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}