HS 030632 Lobsters (Homarus spp.)
Quick Answer: Lobsters (Homarus spp.) imported under HS 030632 enter the US duty-free, the EU at rates up to 10.00%, and the UK at rates up to 10.00%. This Harmonized System code specifically covers live, fresh, or chilled lobsters of the Homarus genus. Trade considerations for importers and exporters include verifying the specific subheadings within each jurisdiction, as duty rates can vary based on presentation (e.g., live versus chilled). Accurate classification is crucial for compliance and to benefit from preferential trade agreements where applicable. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306320000 | — | — | — |
| 0306321000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0306329100 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0306329900 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306321000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0306329900 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 0306320000 | — | — | — |
| 0306329100 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306320010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 03063200 | Free | — | — |
| 0306320090 | — | — | ["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 030632 cover?
This subheading covers live, fresh, or chilled lobsters of the genus Homarus spp. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is for lobsters that are not prepared or preserved. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category includes whole lobsters or parts thereof, provided they remain in their raw, unprocessed state, maintaining their natural characteristics. The genus Homarus specifically refers to the common lobsters found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans.
What falls outside HS 030632?
The following products are excluded from HS 030632: lobsters that have been cooked, frozen, dried, salted, or otherwise preserved, as these fall under different subheadings within Chapter 03 or Chapter 16. For instance, frozen lobsters are typically classified under HS 030612, while cooked lobsters would be classified under HS 1605. Additionally, other crustaceans such as crabs (HS 030624) or shrimp and prawns (HS 030614/030624) are not covered by this specific lobster classification, even if imported live, fresh, or chilled.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030632?
A common error is misclassifying lobsters that have undergone minimal processing, such as being chilled with dry ice or packed in seawater for preservation during transport. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 2(a) of the Harmonized System, goods presented in incomplete or unfinished form are classified as if they were the complete or finished product, but this does not extend to significant preservation methods. Importers may also mistakenly classify other species of shellfish as Homarus spp., leading to incorrect duty rates and potential penalties.
How should importers classify products under HS 030632?
The correct procedure for classifying lobsters under HS 030632 involves a thorough examination of the product's condition upon importation. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the lobsters are live, fresh, or chilled and belong to the Homarus genus. Reviewing the product's packaging, any processing information, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC are crucial steps. If any doubt exists, obtaining a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority is recommended to ensure compliance.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030632?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of live Atlantic 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 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,000 USD × 5.0% = $100.00). This calculation is based on the duty rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 0306.32.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030632?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030632, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, lobsters originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported into the United States duty-free, provided a valid Certificate of Origin is presented. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries like Canada. Documentation requirements typically include a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or specific origin certificates for other agreements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030632 (Lobsters, Homarus spp.)?
The import duty rates for HS code 030632 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 0% ad valorem. In the European Union, the rate can be 0% ad valorem for certain origins under preferential trade agreements, but the standard rate can be higher. The UK's standard tariff also has specific rates. 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 030632 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duties are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific basis (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For HS 030632, duties are often ad valorem. For instance, if a shipment of live lobsters (Homarus spp.) valued at $10,000 USD has an ad valorem duty rate of 3.5%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 USD * 3.5% = $350 USD. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) and the exact rate for the specific importing country.
What specific classification criteria distinguish lobsters under HS 030632 from other crustaceans?
HS code 030632 specifically covers 'Lobsters (Homarus spp.)'. The key classification criterion is the genus 'Homarus', which refers to the American lobster (Homarus americanus) and the European lobster (Homarus vulgaris or Homarus gammarus). This code distinguishes them from other types of lobsters (e.g., spiny lobsters, which fall under different HS codes like 0306.19) and other crustaceans like crabs or shrimp. Proper identification of the species is essential for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing lobsters under HS code 030632?
Importing lobsters under HS code 030632 generally requires standard customs documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and whether the lobsters are live, fresh, chilled, or frozen, additional documents may be necessary. These can include a health or sanitary certificate issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, proof of origin for preferential duty claims, and potentially import permits. It is advisable to check the specific import requirements of the destination country with their customs authority.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030632, and how can importers claim them?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 030632 are often available through various free trade agreements (FTAs). For example, if lobsters are exported from Canada to the United States, they may benefit from preferential treatment under agreements like USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), potentially resulting in duty-free entry. Similarly, imports into the EU from countries with an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) or other FTAs may qualify for reduced or zero duties. To claim preferential rates, importers must typically provide a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin that meets the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement, demonstrating that the lobsters meet the rules of origin.