HS 030612 Lobsters (Homarus spp.)
Quick Answer: Lobsters (Homarus spp.) imported under HS 030612 enter the UK at 6.00%, the EU at 6.00% (though some lines reach 16.00%), and the US duty-free. This code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled lobsters of the *Homarus* genus. Trade considerations include potential variations in duty rates within the EU based on specific product forms or origins, and the US's duty-free status for these goods. Importers and customs brokers should verify the exact tariff line and any applicable preferential rates or import restrictions for their specific shipment. According to CustomTariffs data, these rates represent the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306120000 | — | — | — |
| 0306121000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0306121010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0306121091 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0306121099 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306120000 | — | — | — |
| 0306121010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0306121099 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0306129010 | 16.00 % | — | — |
| 0306129099 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03061200 | Free | — | — |
| 0306120030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0306120070 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0306120010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0306120050 | — | — | ["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 030612 cover?
This subheading covers live, fresh, or chilled lobsters of the genus *Homarus*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes species such as the American lobster (*Homarus americanus*) and the European lobster (*Homarus gammarus*). Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this classification is specific to lobsters of the *Homarus* genus, excluding other types of crustaceans that may resemble lobsters.
What falls outside HS 030612?
The following products are excluded from HS 030612: lobsters that are cooked, frozen, dried, salted, or otherwise preserved, which are classified under different subheadings within Chapter 03 or Chapter 16. Furthermore, other crustaceans, such as spiny lobsters (family Palinuridae) or slipper lobsters (family Scyllaridae), are specifically excluded and classified under HS 030619. It is crucial to distinguish between the *Homarus* genus and other families of lobsters.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030612?
A common error is misclassifying spiny lobsters or other non-*Homarus* species under this subheading. This often occurs due to a superficial resemblance. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For Chapter 03, the specific genus is critical, and misidentification can lead to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 030612?
The correct procedure for classifying lobsters under HS 030612 involves verifying the species and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must consult scientific documentation or supplier declarations to confirm the genus is *Homarus*. The product must be live, fresh, or chilled. If the product is preserved, it must be classified elsewhere. Reviewing the specific tariff schedule of the importing country is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030612?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of fresh American lobsters (*Homarus americanus*) declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD would attract a US duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,000 USD × 0.05 = $100.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030612?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030612, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating lobsters from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin is required. For imports into the European Union, originating lobsters from countries with an Association Agreement may also benefit from reduced or zero duties, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 030612 (live, fresh, or chilled lobsters)?
Import duty rates for HS code 030612 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0% ad valorem. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate is 6.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a rate of Free for most preferential origins and 6.00% ad valorem for Most Favored Nation (MFN) treatment. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the duty for HS code 030612 calculated? Can you provide an example?
Duty calculation for HS code 030612 typically uses an ad valorem rate, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if importing 100 kg of lobsters valued at $10 per kg into the EU, the total value is $1,000. With an ad valorem duty rate of 6.00%, the duty would be calculated as: $1,000 (value) × 6.00% (duty rate) = $60.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight, so it's crucial to check the tariff notes.
What specific criteria define lobsters under HS code 030612 for customs classification?
HS code 030612 specifically covers 'Lobsters, live, fresh or chilled, whether or not cooked by steaming or by boiling in water'. This includes species of the family Nephropidae (e.g., American lobster, European lobster) and Palinuridae (e.g., spiny lobsters). The key classification criteria are the species of lobster and their condition (live, fresh, chilled, or steamed/boiled). Frozen lobsters, or those prepared or preserved in other ways, would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing lobsters under HS code 030612?
Standard documentation for importing lobsters (HS 030612) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required. Health certificates or phytosanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are often mandatory to ensure the lobsters meet food safety and health standards. Importers should verify specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030612?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 030612. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), certain conditions and rules of origin must be met for lobsters to qualify for preferential duty-free treatment. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries that may reduce or eliminate duties on lobsters originating from those partner nations. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim preferential treatment under any applicable trade agreement.