HS 030634 Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus)
Quick Answer: Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus) imported under HS 030634 enter the UK and EU at 12.00% ad valorem, and the US duty-free under the MFN rate. This HS code specifically covers Norway lobsters, also known as scampi, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Trade considerations include potential seasonal variations in availability and differing import requirements across jurisdictions. Importers and customs brokers should consult specific country tariff schedules for precise duty rates and any applicable quotas or sanitary and phytosanitary measures. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306340000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306340000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0306340000 | 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 030634 cover?
This subheading covers Norway lobsters, scientifically known as *Nephrops norvegicus*, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this specific classification applies to the whole Norway lobster or its meat. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this code is dedicated exclusively to this species, distinguishing it from other types of shellfish or crustaceans.
What falls outside HS 030634?
The following products are excluded from HS 030634: other species of lobsters (e.g., American lobster, *Homarus americanus*, classified under 0306.11), langoustines not identified as *Nephrops norvegicus*, and other crustaceans like shrimp (0306.13) or crabs (0306.24). Products that have undergone significant processing beyond simple preservation, such as cooked Norway lobster meat that is breaded or battered, would typically be classified in Chapter 16, covering preparations of meat, fish, or other aquatic invertebrates.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030634?
A common error is misidentifying the species of lobster. Importers may mistakenly classify other types of lobsters or even large shrimp under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Therefore, precise identification of *Nephrops norvegicus* is crucial, and confusion with similar-looking species can lead to incorrect duty rates, potentially resulting in penalties or back-duties.
How should importers classify products under HS 030634?
The correct procedure for classifying Norway lobsters under HS 030634 involves verifying the species and its condition. Importers and customs brokers must consult official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and compare the product description with the precise wording of heading 0306 and subheading 0306.34. Confirmation of the scientific name (*Nephrops norvegicus*) and the state of preservation (fresh, chilled, frozen, etc.) is essential for accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030634?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of frozen Norway lobster tails, 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 × 0.05 = $100.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 0306.34.90.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030634?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030634. For instance, under the USMCA, originating Norway lobsters from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. Similarly, originating products from countries benefiting from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may receive reduced or zero duties. Documentation such as a EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences or a self-certified origin declaration for USMCA is typically required to claim these preferential rates.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus) under HS code 030634?
The import duty rates for HS 030634 (Norway lobsters, Nephrops norvegicus), whether fresh, chilled, or frozen, depend on the country of origin and the importing country's tariff schedule. For example, under the US tariff schedule (USITC), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is typically 12.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may apply. For instance, imports from countries with an FTA with the US might be eligible for a 0% duty rate. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable duty rate based on the origin of the goods.
How is the import duty for HS 030634 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS 030634 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the MFN duty rate is 12.00% and you import 100 kg of frozen Norway lobsters with a declared customs value of $1,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = 12.00% of $1,000 USD = $120 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or other units, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. It is crucial to verify the exact calculation method and applicable rates in the destination country's tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 030634, and what distinguishes Norway lobsters from other crustaceans?
HS code 030634 specifically covers 'Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus)'. The primary classification criterion is the species identification. Nephrops norvegicus is a distinct species of decapod crustacean, commonly known as langoustines or scampi. It is important to differentiate them from other lobsters (e.g., Homarus spp.) or crayfish. Documentation such as species identification certificates or scientific names on invoices can be crucial for customs verification. The product can be presented fresh, chilled, or frozen, but must be whole or in pieces, raw or cooked by steaming or boiling, whether or not shelled, and whether or not frozen.
What documentation is typically required for importing Norway lobsters under HS code 030634?
When importing Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus) under HS code 030634, standard import documentation is required, which may include a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the importing country's regulations, you may need a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates. Health and sanitary certificates issued by the competent authority of the exporting country are often mandatory to ensure the product meets food safety standards. Importers should also be prepared for potential species verification by customs authorities.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 030634, and how can importers leverage them?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 030634 can be accessed through various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, if importing into the European Union, the EU's Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) lists preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU has an FTA (e.g., Canada, Japan, South Korea). Similarly, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may provide preferential treatment for goods traded between these North American countries. To leverage these agreements, importers must ensure the Norway lobsters meet the rules of origin stipulated in the specific FTA and possess a valid proof of origin, such as a EUR.1 certificate or an origin declaration on the invoice, as required by the agreement.