HS 030812 Frozen
Quick Answer: Squid, cuttlefish, and octopus, whether frozen or not, imported under HS code 030812, enter the UK at 10.00%, the EU at 11.00%, and the US duty-free under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers these cephalopods when presented in a frozen state. Importers and customs brokers should be aware that while the US offers duty-free entry, significant ad valorem duties apply in the UK and EU. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific national tariff schedules for precise application.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308120000 | 10.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308120000 | 11.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0308120000 | 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 030812 cover?
This subheading covers live, fresh, or chilled aquatic invertebrates, specifically molluscs, excluding fish and crustaceans. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes items like live oysters, mussels, scallops, and clams intended for consumption. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database provide further detail, confirming that these are live aquatic animals from headings 0308, specifically excluding those that have been processed beyond simple chilling or freezing.
What falls outside HS 030812?
The following products are excluded from HS 030812: aquatic invertebrates that have been cooked, dried, salted, or otherwise preserved beyond simple chilling. For instance, canned clams, smoked mussels, or dried squid would be classified under different headings, typically within Chapter 16 (Preparations of meat, of fish, of crustaceans, molluscs, or other aquatic invertebrates). Live aquatic invertebrates intended for ornamental purposes or for stocking fisheries are also classified elsewhere, not under this heading for edible products.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 030812?
A common error is misclassifying processed or preserved aquatic invertebrates under this subheading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. For example, products that have undergone any form of cooking, even if subsequently chilled, are typically excluded and fall under Chapter 16, not Chapter 03, which focuses on fresh or chilled products.
How should importers classify products under HS 030812?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 030812 involves a thorough examination of the product's state and any processing it has undergone. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the aquatic invertebrates are indeed live, fresh, or chilled, and have not been subjected to any preservation methods beyond chilling. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Heading 0308 is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 030812?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of live oysters, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $50.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is $500 USD (declared value) × 0.10 (10% MFN duty rate) = $50.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 0308.12.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 030812?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 030812, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating live molluscs from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin, as specified by USMCA regulations, is required. Other agreements might offer reduced rates for specific countries, but USMCA is a prominent example for North American trade.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the primary import duty rates for HS code 0308.12 (Frozen)?
For HS code 0308.12, covering frozen squid, cuttlefish, and octopus, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate in the United States is 5% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For example, goods originating from certain countries may benefit from reduced or duty-free entry. It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for the most current and specific rates applicable to your import.
How is the import duty for HS 0308.12 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS 0308.12 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if frozen squid valued at $10,000 is imported into the U.S. under the MFN rate of 5%, the duty would be $10,000 (value) × 0.05 (duty rate) = $500. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
What specific classification criteria must be met for HS code 0308.12?
HS code 0308.12 specifically covers 'Frozen' squid, cuttlefish, and octopus. The key classification criterion is that the product must be 'frozen.' This means the product must have been subjected to a freezing process, and the temperature must be maintained at or below -18°C (0°F) during transport and storage to preserve its quality. Products that are merely chilled, dried, or salted would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 0308.12?
For importing frozen squid, cuttlefish, or octopus (HS 0308.12), standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. Importers should also be prepared to provide product specifications and potentially health or sanitary certificates to comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations for seafood imports.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 0308.12 into the United States?
The United States has various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that could provide preferential duty rates for HS 0308.12. Examples include agreements with countries like Chile, Singapore, and Australia. To benefit from these preferential rates, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective FTA and possess a valid certificate of origin issued by the exporting country. Consult the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website or CBP resources for a comprehensive list of FTAs and their specific provisions.