Japan ACPBuild a matrix for each supplied product configuration, showing what changes in composition, function, power and retail contents. Connect every row to the manufacturer's model, specification and shipment references. A shared listing or supplier code does not establish that all variants are equivalent; keep the review linked to the goods actually shipped.
Pick a reference model, then record what changes
Start with the model you expect to ship first. Give it a complete product brief, then build a matrix for the other options. Use the manufacturer's model reference alongside your stock identifier so the reviewer can connect each row to the specification and invoice.
Describe changes explicitly: a different material, component, function, power source or retail package. An option called large may have a different construction as well as a different size. An option called pro may add wireless functionality. Keep the sales label, but do not let it stand in for the actual difference.
Compare the features, not just the colours
Use one row per distinct supplied configuration. Record unchanged where a feature is the same, and unknown where the supplier has not answered. A blank cell is ambiguous: it might mean no battery, no information or simply an overlooked field. The matrix should help somebody request the missing fact without having to reconstruct the whole catalogue.
The table below is an illustrative review worksheet, not a classification result. A difference can prompt further review without necessarily producing a different tariff code. Equally, a shared code supplied by the manufacturer does not establish that every variant has been assessed correctly.
| Illustrative model | Power | Function | Retail contents |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | External supply; no battery stated | Base function | Main item and cable |
| B | Rechargeable battery included | Base function | Main item and charging cable |
| C | Rechargeable battery included | Adds a wireless function | Main item, cable and accessory |
Treat packaging and bundles as product facts
Explain whether components are imported in one retail pack, separately boxed for later assembly, or supplied as replacement parts. List what is included and what is sold separately. The same photograph may advertise a complete setup even when the shipment contains only one component.
Provide packaging photographs when they help establish the supplied configuration. Ask the supplier to link the packing list to the model matrix. If the first shipment includes mixed variants, identify the quantities against the same references rather than using a single family name for every carton.
Keep the review linked to the supplied version
Save the specification and matrix version used for the review. When the supplier changes a component, material or packaging arrangement, record the change before reusing the earlier outcome. A previous written Customs ruling also needs to be checked against the goods it actually describes; it is not a blanket answer for later designs.
Send the matrix with HS code and ACP review and identify the models in the intended first shipment. We can then discuss which facts need clarification and whether product differences need separate attention before appointment planning continues.
- Every shipped configuration has an identifiable row
- Differences in composition, function and power are explicit
- Included items are separated from optional accessories
- Invoice, packing list and specification use matching references
Questions about this topic
Can all variants in one listing use the same HS code?+
A shared listing does not establish a shared classification. Compare the actual composition, function, construction and supplied contents of each variant. Differences may need further review without necessarily producing different codes. Provide a model matrix and supporting specifications so the classification question is assessed against the goods rather than the marketing name.
Should I include optional accessories and retail bundles in the review?+
Describe exactly what will be imported together and what is sold separately. A photograph may show a complete setup while the shipment contains only a component. List bundle contents, packaging and model references, and match them to the packing list. This identifies the review subject without assuming how Customs will classify the configuration.
Sources and scope
This guide is written to help you prepare information for a review. Its examples and working notes are illustrative. The linked Customs sources explain the formal procedures.
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