Nextbill Logo

Create. Track. File. Grow — NextBill Handles Your Numbers So You Can Focus on Business

What is hsn code

What is HSN code and its structure?

HSN code refers to the Harmonized System of Nomenclature code, a comprehensive international product classification system. Under GST, the structure of HSN code consists of a series of numbers. HSN codes' first two-digit chapters indicate the broader category of goods. The second two-digit digit denotes the heading specifying the type of products within the chapter. The subsequent digit provides further details down to a different product level.

What is the difference between HSN and SAC code?

There are some differences between SAC codes and HSN codes. HSN codes are used for classifying goods, whereas SAC codes are used for classifying services. HSN codes follow an 8-digit format, while SAC codes are in a 6-digit format. HSN codes are issued by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and SAC codes are issued by the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC).

How NextBill simplifies invoicing for you:

How NextBill simplifies invoicing for you:

  • One-Click Invoice Creation:Generate GST-compliant invoices instantly with auto-filled data.
  • Custom Templates & Branding:Add your logo, colors, and signature to personalize every invoice.
  • Auto GST Calculation:No manual math — taxes are applied correctly based on product and state.
  • Recurring Invoices:Set and forget — automatically send invoices for repeat customers.
  • Real-Time Invoice Tracking: Know when your invoice is viewed, paid, or pending — live updates

Why is the HSN code important?

HSN ApplicationsHSN Applications

As an internationally used standard, the initial 6 digits of the HSN Code are identical to all the countries. But in order to extend classification, more digits have been added to individual HS Code systems by the respective countries. For instance, We have an 4, 6 & 8 digit classification in India whereas the US has HTS Codes called Harmonised Tariff Schedule, which follows a 10 digit classification.

Nextbill contact us banner

Experience next-level e-invoicing, GST filing, Inventory management, and many more- All in one platform

Create and Manage Invoices Easily With Smart Automation

Create and Manage Invoices Easily With Smart Automation

Create professional invoices in just a few clicks with automatic tax and total calculations, personalized branding options like your logo and business details, and instant sharing via email or download. Eliminate the hassle of manual billing and paperwork, and ensure your invoices look professional, accurate, and business-ready every time.

Generate E-Way Bills in Seconds

Generate E-Way Bills in Seconds

No more delays, confusion, or paperwork—NextBill lets you create, track, and manage E-Way Bills effortlessly from a single platform. Generate E-Way Bills in seconds, stay GST-compliant, and ensure smooth transportation of goods with real-time tracking and accurate documentation, all in one place.

Frequently asked questions

What is an HSN code?

Toggle

An HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) code is a 6 to 8-digit uniform code used to classify goods under GST in India.

What is the difference between HSN and SAC codes?

Toggle

HSN codes are used exclusively for goods (physical products), while SAC (Services Accounting Codes) are used to classify services. Both serve the same purpose: determining the correct GST rate.

How does the NextBill HSN Finder tool work?

Toggle

Simply type the name of your product or service into our search bar, or enter a partial code. The tool instantly crawls the latest GST directory to give you the correct code and its corresponding tax rate.

How many digits of the HSN code do I need to mention on my invoice?

Toggle

The requirement depends on your business's annual turnover: 1. Turnover up to ₹5 Crores: Minimum 4 digits required (B2B invoices only). 2. Turnover above ₹5 Crores: Mandatory 6 digits required for all invoices.

Can I find GST tax rates using the HSN code?

Toggle

Yes. When you look up a code using NextBill’s free finder, the tool displays the official GST slab (e.g., 5%, 18%, and 40% ) mapped to that specific product or service category.

What happens if I use an incorrect HSN or SAC code on a bill?

Toggle

Using the wrong code can lead to incorrect tax calculations, which trigger automated tax department notices (like DRC-01C) for revenue mismatches. It can also cause your clients to lose their Input Tax Credit (ITC).

Is NextBill’s HSN/SAC finder tool free to use?

Toggle

Yes, our online HSN lookup tool is 100% free. You can perform unlimited searches for your inventory or billing setup without registering or providing credit card details.

How often are the HSN/SAC codes updated in this tool?

Toggle

Our tool pulls data directly via secure APIs linked to official government updates. This ensures you always get the latest amendments, rate changes, and notifications issued by the GST Council.

How can I find an SAC code for a specific service?

Toggle

Just type the nature of your service (e.g., "software development," "consulting," "renting") into the NextBill finder. The system will filter out goods and show you the relevant 6-digit SAC code instantly.

Do I need an HSN code for composite or mixed supplies?

Toggle

For a composite supply (e.g., a laptop sold with a bag), you use the HSN code of the principal item (the laptop). For a mixed supply sold for a single price, you must use the HSN code that attracts the highest rate of tax.

Can I use this tool to manage my entire product inventory?

Toggle

Our free tool is designed for quick, single searches. For managing entire product lines, NextBill’s main software lets you save custom product catalogues with pre-linked HSN codes for high-speed invoicing.

Is an HSN code required for export invoices?

Toggle

Yes. For export transactions, mentioning the full 8-digit HSN code is mandatory on shipping bills and export tax invoices to facilitate international trade tracking.

What are the exempted goods in relation to HSN codes?

Toggle

Exempted goods are items that attract 0% GST (like fresh vegetables or milk). Even though they are tax-free, they still have specific HSN codes that must be mentioned on a Bill of Supply.

What do the different digits in an 8-digit HSN code represent?

Toggle

The 8-digit code has a strict hierarchy: 1. First 2 digits: The Chapter (broad category of goods). 2. Next 2 digits: The Heading (specific type within the chapter). 3. Next 2 digits: The Sub-heading (global standard breakdown). 4. Last 2 digits: The Tariff Item (specific Indian tax classification).

Estimate Management
Send branded, professional estimates that impress —- and convert to invoices instantly.
E-Invoicing
Generate GST-ready e-invoices in a flash — with all details auto-filled and IRN-ready.
GST Filing
Auto-captured data, accurate returns, and one-click GST filing- stress-free, every month.
E-Way Bill
Create, manage, and track E-Way Bills without juggling portals or paperwork.
Inventory Management
Real-time inventory updates so you never miss a sale — or overstock again.
Purchase Management
Organize your purchases, vendors, and bills — all in one clean, bright view.

Payments and Accounting, finally in sync

NextBill AI transforms payment reconciliation from a tedious task into a one-click process.

It auto-matches transactions, create payments, and highlights only what needs your attention — giving you clarity and control like never before.