HS 060312 Carnations
Quick Answer: Carnations imported under HS 060312 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.50%, and the US with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3.2%, though significant duty-free provisions exist for certain trading partners. This HS code specifically covers fresh, cut flowers of carnations, intended for ornamental purposes. Importers should be aware of potential seasonal variations in duty rates and the specific origin requirements for preferential duty-free entry into the US, as detailed on platforms like CustomTariffs. Compliance with phytosanitary regulations is also crucial for the import of live plants and flowers.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0603120000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0603120000 | 8.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0603123000 | 3.2% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 060312 | — | — | — |
| 0603127000 | 6.4% | Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) 3.2% (1 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 0603.12?
Imports of Carnations may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) 3.2% for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 060312 cover?
This subheading covers fresh cut flowers and flower buds of carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus), suitable for bouquets or for ornamental purposes. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this classification is specific to carnations, distinguishing them from other cut flowers. Official tariff schedules, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this code applies to whole, fresh carnations, including those that have been preserved by refrigeration or other means, provided they retain their natural appearance.
What falls outside HS 060312?
The following products are excluded from HS 060312: dried, dyed, bleached, impregnated, or otherwise processed carnations, which are typically classified under other headings. Also excluded are artificial carnations, which fall under Chapter 67. Live carnation plants or cuttings for propagation are classified under Chapter 0602. Furthermore, cut carnation foliage or leaves, if imported separately and not as part of the flower, would likely be classified under a different subheading within Chapter 0603 or potentially Chapter 12 if considered dried or preserved plant material.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 060312?
A common error is misclassifying carnations that have undergone significant processing, such as being preserved with chemicals or permanently dyed, which would remove them from the "fresh" category. Another mistake is confusing carnations with similar-looking flowers like pinks or other Dianthus species, which may have different HS codes. Importers must also ensure they are not classifying live plants or plant parts intended for propagation under this subheading, as per General Rule of Interpretation 1 of the Harmonized System, which emphasizes the essential character of the product.
How should importers classify products under HS 060312?
The correct procedure for classifying carnations under HS 060312 involves a thorough examination of the product's condition and form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed fresh cut carnations and flower buds. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial. If there is any doubt, obtaining a binding ruling from the customs authority or consulting with a customs professional is recommended to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 060312?
A shipment of 1,000 fresh cut carnations, declared at a customs value of $200 USD, would attract a US duty of $10.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value (0.05 × $200 = $10.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which specifies ad valorem duties for many floral products under heading 0603. Specific quantities might also be subject to additional per-unit duties in some jurisdictions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 060312?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 060312. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating carnations from Canada and Mexico may enter the US duty-free. Similarly, the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement allows for duty-free entry of originating carnations between the EU and the UK. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a proof of origin, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for fresh cut flowers of carnations (HS 060312) into the United States?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for fresh cut flowers of carnations, not already otherwise specified or included, under HS code 0603.12 is 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, imports from Australia (AU) under the US-Australia FTA may be eligible for duty-free entry. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the specific country of origin and applicable FTA to determine the correct duty rate. For definitive rates, consult the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
How is the import duty for carnations (HS 060312) calculated in the United States?
The duty for carnations (HS 060312) is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of carnations valued at $10,000 is imported and subject to the MFN rate of 8.00%, the calculated duty would be $10,000 * 0.08 = $800. Importers and customs brokers must ensure accurate valuation and declare the correct rate based on the country of origin and any applicable trade agreements. Refer to the HTSUS for specific valuation rules.
What are the classification criteria for HS code 060312 (Carnations)?
HS code 060312 specifically covers 'Carnations, fresh, for bouquets or for ornamental purposes'. This classification applies to carnations that are cut and presented as individual stems or in bouquets, intended for decorative use. It excludes live plants, dried flowers, or flowers otherwise prepared or preserved. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the scope of this heading, emphasizing their state and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should ensure the goods meet these criteria to avoid misclassification.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for carnations (HS 060312) into the United States?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for carnations (HS 060312) into the United States. Examples include agreements with countries like Chile (CL), Colombia (CO), and Peru (PE) under the CAFTA-DR and other bilateral agreements. These agreements often grant duty-free entry or reduced rates for qualifying goods originating from these partner countries. Importers and customs brokers must obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter to claim preferential treatment. The USITC HTSUS is the authoritative source for listing specific preferential rates by country.
What documentation is typically required for importing carnations (HS 060312) into the United States?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing fresh cut flowers like carnations (HS 060312) into the United States often requires specific phytosanitary certificates. These certificates, issued by the plant health authority of the exporting country, attest that the flowers are free from pests and diseases. Additionally, if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Importers and customs brokers should also be aware of any specific U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations or import permits that may be required. Consulting with APHIS and a customs broker is advisable.