HS 030615 Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus)
Quick Answer: Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus) imported under HS 030615 enter the UK at 12.00%, the EU at 12.00%, and the US duty-free. This classification specifically covers frozen Norway lobsters, also known as Dublin Bay prawns or scampi. Importers should note that while the US offers duty-free entry, specific import requirements for live or fresh seafood may still apply. Exporters should verify the specific import regulations and any potential non-tariff barriers in the destination country. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for compliance professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306150000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306150000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306150000 | 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 030615 cover?
This subheading covers frozen Norway lobsters, scientifically known as *Nephrops norvegicus*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification applies specifically to Norway lobsters that are chilled or frozen. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this subheading is for the whole, headless, or tail-only forms of *Nephrops norvegicus* when preserved by freezing, excluding any further processing beyond simple freezing.
What falls outside HS 030615?
The following products are excluded from HS 030615: Norway lobsters that are fresh (not chilled or frozen), live, or preserved by methods other than freezing, such as salting, drying, or cooking. Also excluded are Norway lobster products that have undergone significant processing, such as being made into pastes, flours, or meals, or those combined with other ingredients. For instance, cooked and frozen Norway lobster tails would likely fall under a different subheading, typically within 0306.19.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030615?
A common error is misclassifying other types of lobsters or crustaceans under this subheading. For example, spiny lobsters (family Palinuridae) or American lobsters (*Homarus americanus*) are classified under different HS codes, such as 0306.11 for spiny lobsters. Importers must carefully verify the scientific name and the form of the product, ensuring it is specifically *Nephrops norvegicus* and that the preservation method is solely freezing, as per General Rule of Interpretation 1 of the HS.
How should importers classify products under HS 030615?
The correct procedure for classifying Norway lobsters under HS 030615 involves a multi-step verification process. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the exact species of the crustacean, confirming it is *Nephrops norvegicus*. Secondly, they must ascertain the preservation method, ensuring it is exclusively freezing. Finally, they should consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the specific subheading and any associated notes or exclusions for the imported product.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030615?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of frozen Norway lobster tails, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 10% × $1,500 USD = $150.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) under subheading 0306.15.00.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030615?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030615, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Under USMCA, originating Norway lobsters from Mexico or Canada can enter the US duty-free. For CPTPP, originating products from countries like Vietnam may also benefit from preferential rates, often Free. Documentation required typically includes a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin, depending on the originating country and the specific agreement.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus) under HS code 030615?
The duty rates for HS code 030615 (Norway lobsters, Nephrops norvegicus), fresh or chilled, vary by importing country. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem. The European Union, under TARIC, typically has a duty rate of 12.00% ad valorem for goods from most third countries, though preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists a duty rate of Free for goods originating from many countries. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
How is the import duty for Norway lobsters (HS 030615) calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the value of the goods. For instance, if the EU applies a 12.00% ad valorem duty on Norway lobsters valued at €1,000, the duty would be calculated as: 12.00% of €1,000 = €120. Some tariffs may also include specific duties based on weight (e.g., per kilogram). It is crucial to use the correct customs value and the applicable duty rate from the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030615, and what distinguishes Norway lobsters from other crustaceans?
HS code 030615 specifically covers 'Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus), whether or not chilled'. The primary classification criterion is the species identification. Norway lobsters, also known as langoustines or scampi, are distinct from other crustaceans like shrimp, prawns, crabs, or other types of lobsters (e.g., Homarus gammarus). Accurate species identification, often supported by scientific names or common names recognized in trade, is essential for correct classification. Documentation such as invoices or packing lists should clearly state the species.
What documentation is typically required for importing Norway lobsters (HS 030615)?
Standard import documentation for HS 030615 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be required. These can include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, and health or sanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Importers should verify specific requirements with customs authorities.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for Norway lobsters (HS 030615)?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties on Norway lobsters. For example, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries worldwide that may offer reduced or zero duty rates for HS 030615, provided the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective agreement. Similarly, the United Kingdom has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. The United States also has trade agreements that could impact duties. Importers should consult the relevant trade agreement database for the importing country and ensure they have the necessary proof of origin to benefit from preferential treatment.