HS 120770 Melon seeds
Quick Answer: Melon seeds imported under HS 120770 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at a rate of 0.00% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from 0.83¢/kg to 13.2¢/kg, with certain trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This HS code specifically covers seeds of melons, such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, intended for sowing or for oil production. Importers should be aware that while the UK and EU offer preferential rates, the US duty structure is based on weight and can vary significantly depending on the origin of the goods. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based preferential rates for US imports.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1207700000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 1207700010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 1207700090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1207700000 | — | — | — |
| 1207700010 | — | — | — |
| 1207700090 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12077000 | 0.83¢/kg | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1207700020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1207700040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 1207700075 | — | — | ["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 1207.70?
Imports of Melon seeds 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 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 120770 cover?
This subheading covers melon seeds, specifically the seeds of plants of the family Cucurbitaceae, such as those from watermelons (Citrullus lanatus), cantaloupes (Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis), and other melons. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these seeds are classified here when intended for sowing or for oil production, provided they are not otherwise specified or included in other headings. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the botanical origin and intended use.
What falls outside HS 120770?
The following products are excluded from HS 120770: melon fruits themselves, which are typically classified under Chapter 08; processed melon seeds, such as roasted or salted seeds intended for consumption as snacks (which might fall under Chapter 20 or 21); and melon seeds intended for medicinal purposes, which could be classified elsewhere depending on their specific preparation and claims. Furthermore, seeds of other cucurbit species not commonly considered melons, like pumpkin or squash seeds, may have different classifications under heading 1207 or elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 120770?
A common error is misclassifying melon seeds based on their end-use without proper documentation. For instance, seeds intended for human consumption as a food ingredient might be mistakenly classified under HS 120770 instead of Chapter 20 or 21 if they are further processed or packaged for direct consumption. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial here. Incorrectly assuming all melon seeds fall under this code without verifying their specific form and intended use is a frequent pitfall.
How should importers classify products under HS 120770?
The correct procedure for classifying melon seeds under HS 120770 involves a thorough examination of the product's nature and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Heading 1207. Verification of the botanical origin and confirmation that the seeds are not processed for immediate consumption or for other specific uses is paramount. Obtaining a detailed product description and, if necessary, a laboratory analysis can aid in accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 120770?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of dried watermelon seeds (Citrullus lanatus) declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. Therefore, the duty is $2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 120770.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 120770?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 120770, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 120770 (Melon seeds)?
Import duty rates for HS code 120770 (Melon seeds) can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, the United States' Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. In contrast, the European Union's standard rate under TARIC can be higher, and specific rates like 0.83¢/kg or 13.2¢/kg may apply in certain contexts or under specific trade regimes. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the exact rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for melon seeds calculated if a specific rate per kilogram applies?
When a duty rate is expressed as a specific rate per kilogram (e.g., 0.83¢/kg), the duty is calculated by multiplying the rate by the net weight of the imported melon seeds in kilograms. For instance, if the duty rate is 0.83¢/kg and you import 1,000 kg of melon seeds, the total duty would be 1,000 kg * 0.83¢/kg = 830¢, which is equivalent to $8.30. Always ensure you are using the net weight of the goods, excluding packaging.
Which trade agreements commonly provide preferential duty rates for melon seeds (HS 120770)?
Several trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for melon seeds (HS 120770). For instance, agreements such as those with Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) often grant 'Free' or reduced duty access under specific preferential programs (indicated by codes like A*, AU, CL, KR, SG in some tariff systems). Importers should verify if their country of origin is covered by a preferential trade agreement with the destination country and ensure they meet all rules of origin requirements to claim these benefits.
What documentation is typically required for importing melon seeds under HS code 120770?
Standard documentation for importing melon seeds (HS 120770) generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the seeds (e.g., for planting vs. consumption), additional documents such as a phytosanitary certificate to ensure the seeds are free from pests and diseases, and a certificate of origin may be required. Always check the specific import requirements of the destination country's customs authority.
Are there specific classification criteria to ensure melon seeds are correctly classified under HS 120770?
HS code 120770 covers 'Melon seeds'. This classification applies to seeds of melons (Cucumis melo L.) intended for sowing or for other uses, provided they are not otherwise specified. It is crucial to distinguish these from other types of seeds or processed products. For example, if the seeds are roasted or prepared in a way that changes their fundamental nature, they might fall under a different HS code. Verification of the product's form and intended use is key to ensuring correct classification.