HS 020210 Carcases and half-carcases
Quick Answer: Beef carcasses and half-carcases imported under HS 020210 enter the UK at 12.00% + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg, the EU at 12.80% + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg, and the US at 26.4% or 31.1% under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers the whole or halved bodies of bovine animals, chilled or frozen, excluding offal. Importers should be aware of the significant ad valorem and specific weight-based duties applied in the UK and EU, as well as the higher ad valorem rates in the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for precise product identification and awareness of varying duty structures across major trading blocs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0202100000 | 12.00 % + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100011 | 12.00 % + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100015 | 12.00 % + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100091 | 12.00 % + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100099 | 12.00 % + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0202100015 | 12.80 % + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100091 | 12.80 % + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100099 | 12.80 % + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100000 | 12.80 % + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
| 0202100011 | 12.80 % + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02021050 | 26.4% | Free (BH,CL,CO,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PE,S,SG) See 9822.04.01-9822.04.03 (AU) See 9919.02.01-9919.02.02 (1 programs) | — |
| 020210 | — | — | — |
| 02021005 | 4.4¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 0202100510 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0202100590 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 0202.10?
Imports of Carcases and half-carcases 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, and 15 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 020210 cover?
This subheading covers carcases and half-carcases of bovine animals, fresh or chilled, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. Specifically, it includes the entire carcass, or the carcass split lengthwise into two symmetrical halves. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system confirm that these are whole animal bodies, prepared for consumption, without the head, feet, tail, internal organs, or hide, but retaining the bone structure. This classification is based on the physical form of the meat product.
What falls outside HS 020210?
The following products are excluded from HS 020210: cuts of beef that are not carcases or half-carcases, such as steaks, roasts, or ground beef, which are classified under other subheadings within heading 0202. Additionally, meat from other animals, such as pork (heading 0203) or sheep (heading 0204), is not covered. Products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple chilling or freezing, such as cured or cooked beef, are also excluded and would fall under different chapters of the HS nomenclature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 020210?
A common error is misclassifying individual cuts of beef as carcases or half-carcases. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly assign a classification if they do not strictly adhere to the definition of a whole or halved carcass, mistaking partial cuts for the complete structure. Another mistake involves classifying beef from animals other than bovine species under this code.
How should importers classify products under HS 020210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 020210 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed a whole bovine carcass or a half-carcass, as defined by the HS. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the explanatory notes for heading 0202 is crucial. Accurate product descriptions and supporting documentation from the supplier are essential for correct declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 020210?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of chilled bovine carcases, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 1.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($50,000 USD × 0.015 = $750.00), and a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram ($0.10/kg × 10,000 kg = $1,000.00). The total duty is the sum of these two components ($750.00 + $1,000.00 = $1,750.00). This calculation is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which often combines ad valorem and specific duties for meat products.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 020210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 020210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating Canadian and Mexican beef carcases can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is required, depending on the value and specific circumstances. Originating products from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive reduced duty rates, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 020210 (Carcases and half-carcases of bovine animals, frozen)?
Import duty rates for HS code 020210 vary significantly by importing country and trade agreements. For example, the UK's tariff rate is 12.00% + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg. The EU's rate is 12.80% + 176.80 EUR / 100 kg. The US applies a rate of 26.4% under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, with potential for higher rates under Section 232 tariffs (currently 25% for most imports). Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates. Sources include the UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, and the USITC.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 020210, given its mixed duty rate?
HS code 020210 often has a mixed duty calculation, consisting of an ad valorem (percentage of value) and a specific duty (per unit of weight). For instance, using the UK rate of 12.00% + 147.00 GBP / 100 kg: If you import 1,000 kg of frozen bovine carcases valued at 3,000 GBP, the duty would be calculated as follows: Ad valorem duty = 12.00% of 3,000 GBP = 360 GBP. Specific duty = (1,000 kg / 100 kg) * 147.00 GBP = 10 * 147.00 GBP = 1,470 GBP. Total duty = 360 GBP + 1,470 GBP = 1,830 GBP. This calculation emphasizes the importance of knowing both the value and the net weight of the goods. Always verify the exact calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 020210?
HS code 020210 specifically covers 'Carcases and half-carcases' of bovine animals that are 'frozen'. This means the product must be the whole carcass or divided into two halves along the midline of the vertebral column. The key classification criteria are: 1. Species: Must be from bovine animals (cattle). 2. Form: Must be presented as a whole carcass or as half-carcases. Products cut into smaller portions (e.g., primals, steaks, roasts) would fall under different subheadings (e.g., 020230). 3. Condition: Must be frozen. Fresh or chilled bovine meat falls under HS code 0201. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on these distinctions.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 020210?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 020210. For example, the US tariff schedule notes exceptions like preferential treatment under agreements with countries such as Australia (AU), Chile (CL), and others, often referencing specific tariff subheadings (e.g., 9822.04.01-9822.04.03 for AU). The EU's TARIC system also details preferential rates stemming from its numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide. Importers should consult the relevant preferential tariff schedule of the destination country, checking for specific product-by-product agreements and required proof of origin (e.g., Certificates of Origin) to claim these reduced duties.
What documentation is typically required for importing frozen bovine carcases under HS code 020210?
Importing frozen bovine carcases (HS 020210) requires comprehensive documentation to ensure compliance with food safety and customs regulations. Standard requirements often include: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: For transport documentation. 3. Packing List: Itemizing the contents of each package. 4. Certificate of Origin: Especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. 5. Health Certificate/Veterinary Certificate: Issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, certifying that the meat is fit for human consumption and meets the importing country's sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards. 6. Import Permit: May be required by the importing country's agricultural or food safety agency. 7. Other specific declarations related to animal health and traceability. Customs brokers play a crucial role in ensuring all necessary documents are accurate and submitted on time.