HS 080711 Melons (including watermelons)
Quick Answer: Melons, including watermelons, imported under HS 080711 enter the UK at 8.00%, the EU at 8.80%, and the US at a general rate of 9% ad valorem, with certain Free Trade Agreement partners enjoying duty-free entry. This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled melons, such as cantaloupe, honeydew, and watermelon. Importers should be aware of potential seasonal variations in duty rates or import restrictions that may apply in different jurisdictions. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these varying rates is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0807110000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0807110000 | 8.80 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08071130 | 9% | Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) 4.5% (1 programs) | — |
| 0807113040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0807113080 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 08071140 | 17% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 0807114040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 0807.11?
Imports of Melons (including watermelons) 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 for USMCA, KORUS, and 16 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 080711 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or chilled melons of the species *Cucumis melo* (including cantaloupe, honeydew, and muskmelon) and *Citrullus lanatus* (watermelon). According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this classification applies to these fruits in their natural state, whether whole, halved, or quartered, provided they retain their characteristic features. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the botanical classification and fresh or chilled condition.
What falls outside HS 080711?
The following products are excluded from HS 080711: melons that have been dried, frozen, or preserved in any manner, as these fall under different headings. For example, dried melon pieces would likely be classified under HS 0813. Furthermore, melons that have undergone significant processing, such as being made into juice or jam, are not covered by this subheading and would be classified according to their specific processed form, often in Chapter 20. Melons intended for sowing are also excluded and fall under Chapter 12.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 080711?
A common error is misclassifying melons that have been cut or prepared in a way that alters their essential character. For instance, while whole or quartered melons are covered, finely diced or pureed melon might be considered a processed product under Chapter 20. Another mistake can arise from confusing different types of gourds; only those botanically classified as *Cucumis melo* or *Citrullus lanatus* belong here. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 and 2 is crucial to ensure correct classification based on the WCO HS nomenclature.
How should importers classify products under HS 080711?
The correct procedure for classifying melons under HS 080711 involves verifying the botanical species and the condition of the product. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the melons are fresh or chilled and belong to the *Cucumis melo* or *Citrullus lanatus* species. Reviewing product specifications, invoices, and potentially consulting with the supplier for detailed product descriptions are essential steps. Cross-referencing with official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for any specific country notes or subdivisions is also recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 080711?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of fresh watermelons, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 0807.11.00 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $500 USD = $0.00 USD. This specific rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the current year.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 080711?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 080711, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, melons originating from Mexico or Canada may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the invoice or a separate declaration is typically required. For trade between EU member states and the United Kingdom, preferential rates or duty-free status may apply under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 080711 (Watermelons)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for watermelons (HS 080711) is typically 8.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates apply under various trade agreements. For example, watermelons from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may enter duty-free. Japan (JP) may have a rate of 4.5% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify eligibility for preferential treatment based on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements. Always refer to official sources like the USITC Tariff Schedule for the United States or the EU TARIC database for European Union imports.
How is the import duty for watermelons (HS 080711) calculated?
The import duty for HS 080711 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 8.00% and you import watermelons with a declared customs value of $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.08 (8.00% Duty Rate) = $800 (Duty Amount). Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, so it's essential to check the specific tariff ruling for your import.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 080711?
HS code 080711 specifically covers 'Watermelons'. This classification is based on the botanical identity of the fruit. The key criterion is that the product must be a watermelon, characterized by its large size, oval or round shape, green rind (often striped), and sweet, juicy flesh, typically red or pink, containing seeds. Products that are botanically classified as other types of melons (e.g., cantaloupe, honeydew) would fall under HS code 080719.
What documentation is typically required for importing watermelons under HS 080711?
Standard documentation for importing watermelons (HS 080711) includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, a phytosanitary certificate issued by the plant protection organization of the exporting country may be mandatory to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Importers should also be prepared to provide proof of origin if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for watermelons (HS 080711)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for watermelons (HS 080711). For example, the United States has FTAs with countries like Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Colombia (CO) that may offer reduced or zero duty rates, provided the goods meet the rules of origin. The European Union also has numerous association and free trade agreements with countries that can impact duty rates. Importers should consult the specific text of agreements such as the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) or the EU's trade deals to confirm eligibility and required documentation for preferential treatment.