HS 030486 Herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii)
Quick Answer: Herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii) imported under HS 030486 enter the UK at 14.00%, the EU at 15.00%, and the US at a rate of Free or 5.5¢/kg, depending on specific conditions. This HS code specifically covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fillets of herrings. Importers and customs brokers should note that while the US offers duty-free entry under certain circumstances, other jurisdictions apply ad valorem duties. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate duty assessment and cost management in international trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304860000 | 14.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304860000 | 15.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0304860000 | Free | — | ["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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 030486 cover?
This subheading covers fresh, chilled, or frozen fillets of herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 0304 specifically pertains to fish fillets and other fish meat, whether or not minced, fresh, chilled or frozen. Subheading 030486 precisely identifies fillets derived from the species *Clupea harengus* (Atlantic herring) and *Clupea pallasii* (Pacific herring), as confirmed by official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database.
What falls outside HS 030486?
The following products are excluded from HS 030486: whole herrings (which would be classified under HS 030499), herrings that are not fillets or minced meat (e.g., steaks or pieces), and herrings that have undergone further processing beyond chilling or freezing, such as drying, salting, or pickling. For instance, smoked herring fillets would typically be classified under HS 0305, and herring prepared or preserved in airtight containers would fall under Chapter 16.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030486?
A common error is misidentifying the species of fish. Importers may mistakenly classify fillets of other similar-looking species, such as sardines or sprats, under this subheading. It is crucial to verify the exact species based on scientific nomenclature and product documentation. Additionally, confusion can arise with products that are not strictly fillets, such as fish loins or pieces, which may require careful application of General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3 for correct classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 030486?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030486 involves a multi-step process. First, identify the product as fish fillets. Second, confirm that the species is indeed *Clupea harengus* or *Clupea pallasii* through supplier documentation or product analysis. Third, determine the condition of the product (fresh, chilled, or frozen). Finally, consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the specific subheading and any applicable duty rates or import requirements.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030486?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of frozen herring fillets, declared at a customs value of $3,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. Therefore, the duty is $3,500 USD × 0.05 = $175.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 030486.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030486?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030486, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating herring fillets from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement meeting the requirements of the agreement is necessary. The United Kingdom also has various trade agreements that may offer preferential rates for originating goods.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030486 (Herrings)?
Import duty rates for HS code 030486, covering 'Herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii)', vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often Free, but other rates may apply based on origin. The EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also list specific rates that can change. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How is the import duty for HS 030486 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS code 030486 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of weight or quantity). For instance, if a country applies a specific duty of $0.50/kg and you import 1,000 kg of herrings valued at $3,000, the duty would be calculated as 1,000 kg * $0.50/kg = $500. If the duty were ad valorem at 5%, the duty would be 5% of $3,000, which is $150. Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and the exact rate from the destination country's tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing herrings under HS code 030486?
Importing herrings under HS code 030486 generally requires standard customs documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's condition (e.g., fresh, chilled, frozen, or prepared), additional documents may be necessary. These can include a certificate of origin, import permits, and health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authorities of the exporting country to ensure compliance with food safety and animal health standards. Always check with the customs authority of the destination country for a comprehensive list.
Do preferential trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 030486?
Yes, preferential trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for HS code 030486. For example, if herrings originate from a country that has a free trade agreement with the importing nation (e.g., USMCA for imports into the US, or agreements the EU has with various partners), the applicable duty rate could be substantially lower than the standard MFN rate, potentially even Free. To benefit from preferential rates, importers must typically provide a valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or a declaration on the invoice, that meets the specific requirements of the trade agreement.
Are there specific classification criteria or conditions that might affect the HS code 030486 for herrings?
HS code 030486 specifically covers 'Herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii)' in various forms, including fresh, chilled, or frozen, whether or not cooked before freezing, but not otherwise prepared or preserved. If the herrings are processed beyond simple freezing or chilling (e.g., filleted, smoked, salted, or canned), they would likely be classified under different HS codes within Chapter 03 or Chapter 16. For instance, herring fillets might fall under 0304, but specific subheadings would apply, and prepared or preserved herrings would typically be classified in Chapter 16. It is essential to ensure the product's exact state of presentation matches the description of the 030486 subheading.