Tariff classification consulting: a key legal step for risk-free importing

Tariff classification is not just a table you need to complete. For any company importing products, this step represents a legal and fiscal obligation. A single mistake can stop your operations, increase your costs, and — even worse — expose you to sanctions from the authority.

The good news is that all of this can be prevented. With legal consulting in tariff classification, your company can operate with certainty from the beginning and avoid unnecessary consequences.

What is tariff classification and what does it involve?

It consists of assigning the correct numeric code — the tariff code — to every product entering or leaving the country. This classification is based on the Harmonized System and directly affects:

• The amount of duties you must pay
• The permits and regulations required for your goods
• The legality of the import before customs authorities

A wrongly assigned code, even due to lack of knowledge, can be interpreted as a fiscal omission — and that is where the risks begin.

Tariff classification in Mexico and the TIGIE

Tariff classification in Mexico is a key process in international trade, as it determines the code under which goods are classified in the TIGIE (Tariff of the General Import and Export Tax Law). This system establishes the duties, regulations, and restrictions that apply to each imported or exported product.

The TIGIE is a legal tool that contains a detailed list of numeric codes, which must be assigned correctly. Proper tariff classification in Mexico not only ensures compliance with fiscal regulations, but also helps avoid issues with Customs and other regulatory agencies.

Every product must be classified under a tariff code that determines its fiscal and customs treatment. An incorrect code can result in severe penalties such as fines, surcharges, or even seizure of the goods.

Legal risks of incorrect classification

Although many see it as a technical detail, errors in tariff classification have meaningful legal and financial consequences. Common scenarios include:

• Fines for inaccurate information declared on the customs entry
• Retention or seizure of goods by customs authorities
• Tax audits that affect your full logistics operation
• Retroactive tax payments with surcharges and updates

In short, if you classify incorrectly, you may end up facing legal processes that damage your reputation and financial stability.

Why do you need specialized legal consulting?

It is not enough to review a table or rely on general product descriptions. Correct classification requires interpreting regulations, customs criteria, and applicable case law. That is why a legal consulting firm with foreign trade expertise can:

• Defend the chosen tariff code before the authority if required
• Issue a documented technical–legislative opinion
• Identify legal risks from your import strategy
• Ensure compliance with international standards

Cases where a company needs this service

Many companies only seek help when they already have a problem. However, tariff classification consulting is most effective before inconsistencies appear. Key scenarios include:

• You are launching a new product and are unsure of its classification
• You import parts or machinery with complex technical descriptions
• You use multiple tariff codes for the same product in your customs entries
• Customs has already questioned past operations

What does a tariff classification consulting service include?

In a foreign trade legal consulting practice like ours, the process goes beyond assigning a code. It includes:

• Technical review of the product
• Identification of the tariff code with legal basis
• Analysis of applicable regulations and NOMs
• Legal opinion on fiscal risks or inconsistencies
• Support to justify the code before third parties (SAT, customs brokers, suppliers)

Is this the same as a customs broker service?

No. Although both relate to foreign trade, a customs broker handles logistics and submits the customs entry. A legal consulting firm, on the other hand, analyzes and documents the tariff code from a legal perspective, supporting the operation and preventing broker-related mistakes.

How can I know if my goods are classified correctly?

The ideal approach is to request a review from experts. It is not enough to repeat codes used in the past.

How many tariff codes can a product have?

It depends on the type of goods. A poor analysis may assign an incorrect code and jeopardize the entire shipment.

Can I classify goods without help?

You can, but you risk missing key legal details. The safest option is to do it with professional guidance.

A misclassified import can become extremely costly. Legal consulting in tariff classification in Mexico is not an expense — it is an investment in compliance, prevention, and legal security.

At EO CONSULTING, we have a team of experts in foreign trade and legal advisory ready to help you avoid fiscal and legal risks with accurate, regulation-compliant classification. Don’t leave your import operations to chance — contact us today for a specialized consultation and ensure proper compliance.

Do not wait until problems arise! Visit our contact page and schedule your appointment.
Protect your business with the legal support you need.

In our consulting firm, we help companies like yours import without surprises.
Evaluate your products before the authority does.