HS 030742 Cuttle fish and squid
Quick Answer: Cuttlefish and squid imported under HS 030742 enter the UK at rates up to 8.00%, the EU at rates up to 8.00%, and the US duty-free under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This HS code specifically covers live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or brined cuttlefish and squid, excluding their flours and meals. Importers should be aware of potential variations in specific subheadings within the EU and UK, which may reflect different processing statuses or origins. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is essential to ensure accurate duty application and compliance across these major trading blocs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307420000 | — | — | — |
| 0307421000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0307422000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0307423000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0307424000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307420000 | — | — | — |
| 0307421000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
| 0307422000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0307424000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 0307429000 | 11.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0307420040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 03074200 | Free | — | — |
| 0307420020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0307420060 | — | — | ["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 030742 cover?
This subheading covers cuttle fish and squid, whether fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine, excluding those prepared or preserved in any way not specified. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category encompasses the species Sepiida (cuttle fish) and Teuthoidea (squid). The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, specifying that live, fresh, chilled, or frozen forms of these cephalopods fall under this classification, provided they are not further processed beyond basic preservation methods.
What falls outside HS 030742?
The following products are excluded from HS 030742: prepared or preserved cuttle fish and squid, such as those canned, smoked, or cooked, which are typically classified under HS Chapter 16. Also excluded are cuttle fish and squid roe (eggs), which are classified separately under HS 0307. Furthermore, live cuttle fish and squid intended for aquarium display or aquaculture are generally classified under HS 0106. Products that have undergone significant processing, such as being made into fish balls or surimi, will also be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030742?
A common error is misclassifying prepared or preserved cuttle fish and squid under this subheading. For instance, canned squid in oil or seasoned, dried squid snacks, or squid rings that have been battered and fried are considered "prepared or preserved" and should be classified under HS Chapter 16, not HS 0307. This is based on General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Incorrectly classifying these processed items can lead to duty discrepancies.
How should importers classify products under HS 030742?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030742 involves a thorough examination of the product's form and any processing it has undergone. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC database. Verify that the product is indeed cuttle fish or squid and that it is in a form that aligns with the subheading's description (e.g., fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine), and not prepared or preserved in a manner that would place it in Chapter 16.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030742?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of frozen squid, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for HS 0307.42.10, which is 5.0% ad valorem. The duty is calculated as 5.0% of the declared customs value: 0.05 × $500 USD = $25.00 USD. Note that for frozen products, duty is often calculated on the value, not weight, unless specific per-kilogram duties apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030742?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030742, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating cuttle fish and squid from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration is required, typically a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin. The specific documentation requirements can vary by importing country and the terms of the agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 030742 (Cuttle fish and squid)?
Import duty rates for HS code 030742 (Cuttle fish and squid) vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, the rate is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can be lower or even free. The EU TARIC system also shows varying rates, often around 6.00% ad valorem for standard imports, with potential reductions or suspensions. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and current rates.
How is the import duty for HS 030742 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 030742 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import 1,000 kg of cuttle fish and squid with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $5,000 (value) × 8.00% (duty rate) = $400 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit weight) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so it's crucial to verify the exact calculation method for your destination.
What specific documentation is generally required for importing cuttle fish and squid under HS 030742?
Beyond standard import documentation like a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing seafood under HS 030742 often requires specific health and sanitary certifications. This may include a Catch Certificate, Health Certificate issued by the competent authority of the exporting country, and potentially a Certificate of Origin. Importers must ensure compliance with the food safety regulations of the destination country, which may involve pre-approval of foreign establishments and adherence to specific labeling requirements. Consult the importing country's food and drug administration or equivalent agency for detailed requirements.
Are there common trade agreements that offer reduced or duty-free import for HS 030742?
Yes, numerous trade agreements can affect duty rates for HS 030742. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the EU's agreements with third countries may benefit from reduced rates under TARIC. Similarly, imports into the United States from countries with FTAs (like USMCA) may qualify for preferential treatment. The World Trade Organization (WTO) also provides a framework for tariff concessions. Importers should verify the Rules of Origin for any applicable trade agreement to confirm eligibility for preferential duty rates.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 030742, and what distinguishes it from other seafood codes?
HS code 030742 specifically covers 'Cuttle fish and squid, whether or not frozen'. The key classification criteria are the species of marine molluscs and their state (fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine). This code excludes other cephalopods like octopuses (typically classified under 0307.49). It also differentiates based on whether the product is whole, in pieces, or processed beyond simple freezing or preservation. For accurate classification, precise identification of the species and its form is essential, often supported by product specifications and supplier declarations.