HS 010631 Birds
Quick Answer: Birds imported under HS 010631 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 1.8% MFN, with preferential rates of Free for various trading partners. This code specifically covers live birds, excluding those for poultry farming (which fall under HS 0105). Importers should be aware of potential import restrictions and health certifications required by each jurisdiction, as these can significantly impact trade. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, highlighting the varying duty structures across major markets for this category.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0106310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0106310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0106310000 | 1.8% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 0106.31?
Imports of Birds may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 010631 cover?
This subheading covers live birds, specifically those belonging to the order Psittaciformes, commonly known as parrots, macaws, cockatoos, and parakeets. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for live animals. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category is strictly for live psittacine birds, excluding any processed or dead specimens.
What falls outside HS 010631?
The following products are excluded from HS 010631: live birds not belonging to the order Psittaciformes, such as poultry (classified under 0105), pigeons (010639), or other non-psittacine birds. Also excluded are dead birds (which fall under Chapter 02 or 03 depending on preparation), eggs (Chapter 04), and any birds that have been processed, such as stuffed or preserved specimens, which would be classified elsewhere based on their specific nature and materials.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 010631?
A common error is misclassifying other live birds that are not psittacines under this subheading. For example, live chickens or turkeys, which are poultry, are classified under HS 0105. Additionally, confusion can arise with ornamental birds that are not parrots; these would typically fall under HS 010639. Adherence to the specific taxonomic definition of Psittaciformes, as outlined in the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, is crucial to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 010631?
The correct procedure for classifying live birds under HS 010631 involves confirming that the birds are indeed members of the order Psittaciformes. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and verify the species against the WCO HS nomenclature. Accurate documentation, including veterinary health certificates and species identification, is essential for a correct declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 010631?
A shipment of 10 live Macaws, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 10% of $5,000 USD = $500.00. This rate applies to imports from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 010631?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 010631, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a duty rate of Free for qualifying birds originating from Canada or Mexico. For imports into the European Union, agreements with certain countries may offer preferential rates, potentially Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU preferences, depending on the specific agreement and origin country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 010631 (Birds)?
The import duty rates for HS code 010631 (Birds) can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For instance, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often 0.00%. However, other countries may have different rates, such as 1.8% or even 20%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country. For example, under the EU TARIC system, rates can range from 0.00% to higher percentages, and preferential rates may apply. The UK Trade Tariff also provides specific rates, which can be free for certain origins.
How is the import duty for live birds (HS 010631) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for live birds under HS 010631 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). If it's ad valorem, the formula is: Duty = (Customs Value of Birds) × (Ad Valorem Duty Rate). For example, if a shipment of parrots valued at $5,000 has an ad valorem duty rate of 1.8%, the duty would be $5,000 × 0.018 = $90. If the duty is specific, the formula is: Duty = (Number of Birds) × (Specific Duty Rate per Bird). Always confirm the basis of duty assessment with the official tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for live birds under HS code 010631?
HS code 010631 specifically covers 'Birds, other than of prey'. This means the primary classification criterion is that the animal must be a bird. The exclusion of 'birds of prey' is important; these would typically fall under HS code 010639. Importers must ensure the species being imported are not classified as birds of prey. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on distinguishing between different categories of birds.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS 010631, and what documentation is needed?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for live birds (HS 010631). For example, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU Free Trade Agreements, and others may offer reduced or zero duties for goods originating from partner countries. Documentation typically required to claim preferential treatment includes a Certificate of Origin, which must attest that the birds meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. The specific requirements vary by agreement and importing country.
Are there specific import or veterinary documentation requirements for live birds under HS 010631 beyond standard customs declarations?
Yes, importing live birds (HS 010631) almost always involves significant veterinary and biosecurity documentation. Importers must typically obtain pre-approval from the importing country's animal health or agriculture authority. This often includes health certificates issued by a veterinarian in the country of export, proof of vaccinations, quarantine plans, and compliance with specific import permits. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to delays, seizure, or refusal of entry for the birds. Consult the relevant government agencies (e.g., USDA APHIS in the US, DEFRA in the UK) for precise requirements.