HS 081040 Cranberries, bilberries and other fruit of the genus Vaccinium
Quick Answer: Cranberries, bilberries, and other fruits of the genus Vaccinium imported under HS 081040 enter the UK at rates up to 2.00%, the EU at rates up to 9.60%, and the US at 2.8¢/kg or free. This classification specifically covers fresh or chilled berries such as lingonberries and cloudberries, in addition to the more commonly known cranberries and bilberries. Importers should note that preferential duty rates may apply depending on the origin of the goods and specific trade agreements. According to CustomTariffs data, variations in duty rates across these major markets necessitate careful tariff classification and duty rate verification for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0810400000 | — | — | — |
| 0810401000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0810403000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0810405000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 0810409000 | 8.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0810400000 | — | — | — |
| 0810403000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
| 0810409000 | 9.60 % | — | — |
| 0810401000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 0810405000 | 3.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08104000 | Free | — | — |
| 0810400026 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0810400030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0810400024 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 0810400029 | — | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 081040 cover?
This subheading covers fresh or dried cranberries, bilberries (also known as European blueberries or whortleberries), and other edible fruits belonging to the genus *Vaccinium*. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System (WCO HS) Explanatory Notes, this category specifically includes fruits like lingonberries and lowbush blueberries, provided they are not processed beyond simple preservation methods like refrigeration or freezing. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this broad definition, encompassing these distinct berry varieties in their natural state.
What falls outside HS 081040?
The following products are excluded from HS 081040: fruits of the genus *Vaccinium* that have undergone significant processing, such as being cooked, sweetened, or preserved in sugar or syrup, which would typically place them in Chapter 20. Highbush blueberries, while also a *Vaccinium* species, are classified under HS 0810.40.0000 in some jurisdictions, but the general description of 0810.40 is for the broader category, and specific national subdivisions may exist. Dried fruits not of the *Vaccinium* genus, such as raisins or dried apricots, are classified elsewhere in Chapter 08.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 081040?
A common error is misclassifying highbush blueberries, which are often specifically listed under a separate subheading (e.g., 0810.40.0000 in the US HTS) or treated as a distinct item within the broader 0810.40 category depending on the national tariff. Another mistake involves confusing these berries with other small fruits or berries not of the *Vaccinium* genus, leading to incorrect classification under headings like 0810.90 ("Other fruit, fresh or dried"). Adherence to the WCO HS General Rules for the Interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature (GRs), particularly GR 1, is crucial for accurate classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 081040?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 081040 involves a systematic approach. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the specific type of berry being imported and confirm it belongs to the genus *Vaccinium*. Consulting official tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, is essential. If the berries are fresh or dried and have not undergone significant processing beyond simple preservation, they will likely fall under this subheading. Always verify any specific national subdivisions or notes within the tariff schedule for precise classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 081040?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of fresh cranberries, declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($3,000 USD × 0.05 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 0810.40.0000, which covers cranberries, bilberries, and other fruits of the genus *Vaccinium*.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 081040?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 081040, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for duty-free entry for originating cranberries from Canada and Mexico. The EU's trade agreements with various countries, such as those with Chile or South Africa, may also offer preferential rates, often resulting in duty-free status for originating products. To claim these preferences, importers typically need to provide a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for certain EU agreements, depending on the specific trade pact and originating country.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 081040 (cranberries, bilberries, etc.) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for fresh or dried cranberries, bilberries, and other fruit of the genus Vaccinium (HS 081040) is 2.8¢/kg. This rate is applied on a per-kilogram basis. For example, importing 1000 kg of cranberries would incur a duty of 1000 kg * 2.8¢/kg = 2800¢, which equals $28.00. Always consult the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) published by the USITC for the most current rates and any potential seasonal variations or specific product exclusions.
Are there preferential duty rates for HS 081040 under trade agreements, such as USMCA?
Yes, preferential duty rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), cranberries and other fruit of the genus Vaccinium originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for duty-free entry (0.00%). To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin and ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the agreement. It is crucial to verify the origin of the goods and the specific requirements of the applicable trade agreement with customs authorities or a licensed customs broker.
What are the classification criteria for fruit under HS code 081040?
HS code 081040 specifically covers fresh or dried cranberries, bilberries (also known as European blueberries), and other edible fruit of the genus Vaccinium. This includes, but is not limited to, lingonberries and huckleberries. The key classification criterion is the botanical classification of the fruit. Products that do not belong to the genus Vaccinium, even if they are similar in appearance or use (e.g., common blueberries, which are typically classified under HS 081040.00.00 in the US HTSUS, but are distinct from bilberries), will be classified under different HS codes. Ensure accurate botanical identification for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required for importing HS 081040 into the EU?
When importing fresh or dried cranberries, bilberries, and other fruit of the genus Vaccinium (HS 081040) into the European Union, standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and specific import conditions, additional documents may be required. For instance, phytosanitary certificates are often necessary to ensure the goods are free from pests and diseases, as mandated by EU plant health regulations. Importers should consult the EU's TARIC database for the most up-to-date tariff and regulatory information, including any specific import licenses or certificates required for the particular product and origin.
How is the duty calculated for HS 081040 if it's an ad valorem rate, and what's an example?
While the US rate for HS 081040 is typically specific (per kg), other countries might apply ad valorem duties. For example, if a country applied a 3.5% ad valorem duty on HS 081040 for dried cranberries, and the customs value of the imported shipment was $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty = $10,000 × 3.5% = $350.00. It is essential to confirm the applicable duty basis (specific, ad valorem, or compound) and the exact rate from the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff or the EU TARIC, as rates can vary significantly by destination and product condition (fresh vs. dried).