HSN Code Finder
Search, lookup, and verify HSN codes for goods along with their applicable GST tax rates in India.
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Need HSN Code Help?
Not sure which code applies to your product or service? Use the search bar above to find HSN code or SAC code instantly, or browse the guide below to understand how HSN and SAC codes work under GST. If you're still unsure after searching, our team at Startup Flora can help you verify the right code for your GST invoices and filings — getting HSN code help early avoids classification errors down the line.
1What is an HSN Code?
HSN stands for Harmonized System of Nomenclature, a globally recognized system developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded goods. Under India's GST regime, every product is assigned a unique HSN code, and businesses must mention this code on tax invoices, purchase orders, and GST returns.
In simple terms, the HSN code tells the government (and anyone reading an invoice) exactly what product is being sold, which category it falls under, and — most importantly — what GST rate applies to it. HSN codes in GST are commonly 4, 6, or 8 digits long depending on turnover, and they are used consistently across import-export documentation and domestic GST filing.
Why HSN Code Digits Matter
The number of digits required depends on your annual turnover:
- Turnover up to Rs. 5 crore: minimum 4-digit HSN code
- Turnover above Rs. 5 crore: 6-digit HSN code
- Businesses dealing in imports/exports: 8-digit HSN code
2What is a SAC Code?
SAC stands for Services Accounting Code. While HSN codes classify goods, SAC codes classify services under GST. Every taxable service — from consulting and IT services to transportation and legal work — is mapped to a unique 6-digit SAC code, which determines the GST rate applicable to that service.
All SAC codes begin with the prefix "99", followed by four more digits that narrow down the exact service category. For example, SAC code 998314 relates to IT consulting and support services.
HSN and SAC Code: What's the Difference?
The core difference between HSN and SAC codes comes down to what they classify: HSN codes are for goods, SAC codes are for services. Here's a quick side-by-side comparison:
| Basis | HSN Code | SAC Code |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | Harmonized System of Nomenclature | Services Accounting Code |
| Applies to | Physical goods and products | Services |
| Digit length | 2, 4, 6, or 8 digits (based on turnover) | Always 6 digits |
| Starting digits | Varies by product chapter | Always starts with "99" |
| Issued by | World Customs Organization (adapted for GST) | Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) |
| Example use case | Furniture, electronics, textiles, chemicals | IT services, legal services, consulting, transport |
Why is the HSN/SAC Code Important?
Getting the right HSN or SAC code isn't just a formality — it directly affects how much GST you charge, how your returns are processed, and whether your business stays compliant. A few reasons this matters:
- Correct GST rate application — each code is tied to a specific GST slab (0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, or 28%), so an incorrect code can mean you're overcharging or undercharging tax.
- Smooth invoicing and return filing — HSN/SAC codes are required fields in GSTR-1 and e-invoicing, and mismatches can cause filing errors or rejected returns.
- Input tax credit accuracy — buyers rely on the HSN/SAC code on your invoice to correctly claim input tax credit (ITC).
- Avoiding penalties — incorrect classification can trigger GST notices, interest, and penalties during audits or scrutiny.
- Standardized trade documentation — HSN codes are used internationally, which keeps export-import paperwork consistent across countries.
Documents & Information Required
Before searching for or applying an HSN/SAC code, keep the following on hand:
- Product or service description — a clear, specific name helps the search return the most accurate match.
- Business turnover details — determines how many digits of the HSN code you're required to use.
- GST registration details — needed to correctly reflect the code in your GSTIN-linked filings.
- Existing invoices (if any) — useful to cross-check codes you may already be using.
How Does HSN Code Search Work?
Enter Details
Type product or service name like "cotton t-shirt" or "web design".
Review Codes
Scan matching HSN/SAC codes from the official directory.
Check Rates
View the applicable GST rates like 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, or 28%.
Select Length
Pick correct code length (4, 6, or 8 digits) based on turnover.
Create Invoice
Add verified HSN/SAC codes to your GST invoices and returns.
Benefits of Using an HSN/SAC Code Finder
1. Saves Time
Instead of manually searching through lengthy government tariff schedules, you get an accurate match in seconds.
2. Reduces Compliance Errors
Using the correct code from the start reduces the risk of GST notices, mismatched returns, or incorrect tax collection.
3. Accurate GST Calculation
Since each code links directly to a GST rate, you avoid undercharging or overcharging customers.
4. Supports E-Invoicing
HSN/SAC codes are a mandatory field in e-invoicing — having the right code ready speeds up invoice generation.
5. Useful for New Businesses
Startups and MSMEs registering for GST for the first time can quickly identify the right classification without needing a tax consultant for every product line.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using an Outdated Code
HSN/SAC codes and their associated GST rates are occasionally revised by the GST Council. Always verify against the latest notification.
2. Guessing the Code Instead of Verifying
Approximating a code based on a similar product can lead to the wrong GST rate being applied — always search and confirm.
3. Using the Wrong Digit Length
Businesses sometimes use fewer digits than required for their turnover slab, which can flag returns for scrutiny.
4. Mixing Up HSN and SAC Codes
Applying an HSN code to a service (or vice versa) is a common error, especially for businesses that sell both goods and services.
Practical Examples
- A garment manufacturer selling cotton t-shirts uses HSN code 6109 and applies the corresponding GST rate on every invoice.
- A freelance web designer providing services uses SAC code 998314 (IT design and development services) to correctly charge 18% GST.
- An electronics retailer selling mobile phones references HSN code 8517 to apply the correct GST slab across all sales invoices.
- A logistics company uses SAC code 996812 for goods transport services to ensure accurate GST treatment.
Costs, Fees, or Charges
There is no government fee to look up or use an HSN or SAC code — classification itself is free. However, indirect costs can arise from getting it wrong: incorrect classification can lead to short payment of GST (attracting interest and penalty), mismatched input tax credit claims, or professional fees if you need a tax consultant to correct past filings. Using a reliable HSN/SAC code finder helps avoid these downstream costs entirely.
Latest Updates on HSN & SAC Codes
The GST Council periodically reviews and revises HSN/SAC code requirements and associated tax rates as part of broader GST rate rationalization. Businesses should keep an eye on official CBIC notifications for changes to mandatory digit requirements, new sub-classifications, and GST rate revisions on specific goods or services categories. Using an HSN/SAC finder that stays synced with the latest GST notifications helps you avoid relying on outdated codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an HSN code?
HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) code is an internationally accepted numeric code used to classify goods for tax and trade purposes. In India, businesses use HSN codes on GST invoices to identify the exact category of a product being sold or supplied.
What is a SAC code?
SAC (Services Accounting Code) is a classification system used under GST specifically for services rather than goods. Every taxable service in India is assigned a unique 6-digit SAC code that determines its applicable GST rate.
What is the difference between HSN and SAC code?
HSN codes classify physical goods and products, while SAC codes classify services. HSN codes can be 2 to 8 digits depending on business turnover, whereas SAC codes are always 6 digits and always begin with '99'.
How many digits are required in an HSN code?
The number of HSN digits required depends on annual turnover. Businesses with turnover up to Rs. 5 crore must use a minimum of 4-digit HSN codes, while businesses above Rs. 5 crore must use 6-digit or 8-digit HSN codes on GST invoices and returns.
Is HSN code mandatory on GST invoices?
Yes. Under GST rules, mentioning the correct HSN or SAC code on invoices is mandatory for most registered taxpayers, with the exact digit requirement depending on annual turnover as notified by the GST Council.
What is the difference between CGST, SGST, and IGST?
CGST and SGST are charged together on intra-state (within the same state) supplies, split equally between the central and state governments. IGST is charged on inter-state supplies and imports, and is collected by the central government before being apportioned to the destination state.
Can an incorrect HSN code lead to legal action?
Yes. Using an incorrect or mismatched HSN/SAC code can lead to wrong GST rate application, notices from tax authorities, penalties, and complications during GST return filing or an audit. It is advisable to always verify codes before invoicing.
How do I find the HSN code for my product?
You can find the HSN code for your product by entering the product name or a keyword into an HSN code finder tool, which matches it against the official GST HSN directory and returns the code along with its applicable GST rate.
Is this HSN and SAC code finder free to use?
Yes, the HSN and SAC code finder tool is completely free to use and does not require any sign-up or login.
Conclusion
Getting your HSN or SAC code right is a small step that protects your business from GST rate errors, invoice mismatches, and compliance headaches down the line. Whether you're classifying a physical product or a service, always search and verify the code rather than guessing — and check the GST rate that comes with it before you invoice.
Use the HSN & SAC code finder above to search your product or service right now, and if you need further help with GST classification, registration, or filing, Startup Flora's team is here to assist.