Techniques for multiple protocol cross layer customized QoS propagation and mapping are described herein. In one embodiment of the invention, a first QoS code of a packet is determined, the packet having a first encapsulation layer and a second encapsulation layer, the first QoS code being included within the first encapsulation of the packet. From application of a first cross layer QoS map to the first QoS code, determining that the second encapsulation layer of the packet should be used in determining a QoS classification. The reference point to the second encapsulation layer is stored. The QoS classification is determined with use of the reference point. A representation of the QoS classification is stored in a QoS descriptor and the QoS descriptor is used to influence processing of the packet. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.