HS 030251 Fish of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae and Muraenolepididae, excluding edible fish offal of subheadings 0302 91 to 0302 99
Quick Answer: Fish of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae and Muraenolepididae, excluding edible fish offal, imported under HS 030251 enters the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.00%, and the US at 2.2¢/kg. This classification covers specific types of white fish, often referred to as cod-like fish, but excludes their internal organs. Importers should be aware of potential variations in specific subheadings and the need for accurate species identification to ensure correct duty application. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the need for diligence in trade compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302510000 | — | — | — |
| 0302511000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302511020 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302511080 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302519000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0302510000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302511000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302511020 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302511080 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 0302519000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03025100 | Free | — | — |
| 0302510010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0302510090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030251 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled fish belonging to specific families: Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are generally demersal fish. For instance, cod, haddock, and pollock fall under the Gadidae family, which is a significant component of this classification. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the biological classification of the fish species.
What falls outside HS 030251?
The following products are excluded from HS 030251: edible fish offal of subheadings 0302 91 to 0302 99, which includes items like livers and roes. Additionally, fish that are not fresh or chilled, such as frozen fish (classified under HS 0303) or dried, salted, or brined fish (classified under HS 0305), are not covered. Fish from families not listed in the subheading, even if they resemble the included species, will also be classified elsewhere, for example, salmon (HS 030211) or tuna (HS 030221).
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030251?
A common error is misidentifying the fish family or failing to distinguish between fresh/chilled and other preservation states. For example, classifying frozen cod as HS 030251 instead of HS 030389 (other fish, frozen) is incorrect. Another mistake involves including fish offal, which has its own specific subheadings. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 030251?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030251 involves first identifying the specific species of fish. Importers and customs brokers must then verify that the fish belongs to one of the enumerated families (Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, or Muraenolepididae) and that it is presented fresh or chilled. Consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and if necessary, seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities, ensures accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030251?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua), a member of the Gadidae family, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 030251 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the duty amount would be $0.00 (0% × $5,000 USD). This calculation is based on the ad valorem system, where the duty is a percentage of the declared customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030251?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030251, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for originating fish from Canada and Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from developing countries. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin for North American trade or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, 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 standard import duties for HS code 030251 (certain demersal fish, fresh or chilled)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 030251, which covers fresh or chilled fish of the families Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae (excluding edible offal), is 12.00% ad valorem in the United States. This rate is applied to the declared customs value of the imported fish. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 030251, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 030251 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value). For example, if a shipment of cod (a fish within the Gadidae family) valued at $5,000 is imported into the U.S., and the MFN duty rate is 12.00%, the calculated duty would be $5,000 * 0.12 = $600. Some specific items or countries of origin might have different duty calculations, such as a per kilogram rate, but for this general classification, ad valorem is common. Always verify the specific tariff rate and calculation method applicable to your import.
What specific fish species fall under HS code 030251, and what are the classification criteria?
HS code 030251 covers fresh or chilled fish belonging to specific families: Bregmacerotidae, Euclichthyidae, Gadidae, Macrouridae, Melanonidae, Merlucciidae, Moridae, and Muraenolepididae. Key classification criteria include the biological family of the fish and its condition (fresh or chilled). For example, cod, haddock, pollock, and hake are common species within the Gadidae family that would fall under this code, provided they are presented fresh or chilled. Excluded are edible fish offal covered by subheadings 0302 91 to 0302 99. Importers must be able to identify the species and confirm its family classification, often requiring scientific names or expert verification.
Are there any preferential duty rates or trade agreement benefits for HS code 030251 imports?
Yes, preferential duty rates may apply depending on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. For instance, imports from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States, such as Canada or Mexico under USMCA, might benefit from reduced or zero duty rates, provided the fish meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) HTS database provides specific rates for different countries. Importers must ensure they have the necessary documentation, such as a Certificate of Origin, to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for customs clearance of HS code 030251 imports?
For imports classified under HS code 030251, standard customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers must provide documentation that accurately identifies the fish species and confirms its condition (fresh or chilled). This may include a catch certificate, bill of sale, or a declaration from the exporter specifying the scientific and common names of the fish and its family. For preferential duty claims, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Additionally, compliance with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for seafood imports, including prior notice and facility registration, is essential.