HS 121410 Lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets
Quick Answer: Lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets imported under HS 121410 enter the UK and EU at 0.00% duty. In the US, rates vary significantly, with some preferential trade agreements offering duty-free entry, while the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 1.4%, and a higher rate of 20% applies to certain origins. This classification specifically covers processed forms of lucerne (alfalfa), such as ground meal or compressed pellets, primarily used as animal feed. Importers should verify specific origin-based duty rates for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1214100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1214100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12141000 | 1.4% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 1214100015 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 1214100050 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 1214100010 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 1214100030 | — | — | ["t"] |
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 1214.10?
Imports of Lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets 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 121410 cover?
This subheading covers lucerne (alfalfa) that has been processed into meal or pellets. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 1214 encompasses "Swedes, mangolds, fodder roots, hay, alfalfa (lucerne), clover, sainfoin and similar forage products, whether or not in the form of pellets." Subheading 121410 specifically isolates the meal and pellet forms of alfalfa, which are commonly used as animal feed due to their nutritional content and ease of storage and transport. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, defining these as dried and processed forage.
What falls outside HS 121410?
The following products are excluded from HS 121410: fresh or dried alfalfa that has not been processed into meal or pellets, such as whole hay or baled alfalfa. Also excluded are other forage crops not specifically named in Heading 1214, such as grass or straw, even if processed into similar forms. Products that are primarily intended for human consumption or that have undergone significant further processing, such as alfalfa extracts or supplements containing alfalfa as a minor ingredient, would also be classified elsewhere, typically under chapters related to food preparations or chemical products.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 121410?
A common error is misclassifying alfalfa meal or pellets when they are mixed with other ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, or binders, for specialized animal feed formulations. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), mixtures are often classified by the component that gives them their essential character. If the alfalfa is merely a carrier and another component dictates the primary function or value, it may fall under a different heading. Importers must carefully assess the composition and intended use to ensure accurate classification, especially when dealing with compound feeds.
How should importers classify products under HS 121410?
The correct procedure for classifying lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets involves consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. Importers and customs brokers should examine the product's exact form (meal or pellet) and confirm it is derived from lucerne (alfalfa). Reviewing the descriptive notes within Chapter 12 and Heading 1214 is crucial. If the product is a mixture, GRI 3 must be applied to determine the essential character. Accurate product descriptions and ingredient lists are vital for this process.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 121410?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of Alfalfa Pellets, 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 value ($2,500 USD × 0.05 = $125.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 121410.0000, which specifies a 5.0% ad valorem duty for goods not originating from countries with preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 121410?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 121410, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, alfalfa meal and pellets originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for a duty rate of Free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA country of origin certificate or a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for qualifying products from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. Documentation requirements vary by jurisdiction.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 121410 (Lucerne/alfalfa meal and pellets)?
Import duty rates for HS code 121410 vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under agreements like the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement (AU) may also be 0.00%. In contrast, some countries may apply higher rates, such as the EU's TARIC system which might list rates like 1.4% or specific rates depending on origin and further processing. The UK Trade Tariff also shows varying rates, often with preferential access for certain countries. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
How is the duty for HS code 121410 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 121410 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For instance, if a country applies a 1.4% ad valorem duty and the declared value of 10,000 kg of lucerne pellets is $5,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 1.4% of $5,000 = $70 USD. If the duty were specific, for example, $0.05 per kg, the duty on 10,000 kg would be 10,000 kg * $0.05/kg = $500 USD. Always verify the duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the importing country's tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets under HS code 121410?
Standard documentation for importing HS code 121410 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the product's origin, additional documents may be required. These can include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates, and potentially phytosanitary certificates or animal health declarations to ensure compliance with agricultural import requirements and prevent the introduction of pests or diseases. Importers should consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list.
Are there common trade agreements that provide preferential duty rates for HS code 121410?
Yes, numerous trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates for HS code 121410. For example, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership), and various bilateral FTAs (Free Trade Agreements) often provide reduced or zero duty rates for goods originating from member countries. The provided sample rates mention 'Free (A+,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E, IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S, SG)', indicating that shipments from these specific countries or blocs may benefit from duty-free entry under applicable trade agreements. It is essential for importers to confirm the origin of their goods and the specific provisions of relevant trade agreements to leverage these benefits.
What are the classification criteria to ensure lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets are correctly classified under HS code 121410?
HS code 121410 covers 'Lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets'. The key classification criteria are that the product must be derived from lucerne (alfalfa) and processed into either a meal (finely ground) or pellet form. This distinguishes it from whole lucerne, hay, or other forms of fodder. The processing should be sufficient to alter its physical state for easier handling, storage, or feeding. If the product is mixed with other ingredients or undergoes significant further processing, it might fall under a different HS code. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) and the specific rulings or guidance from the importing country's customs authority for precise classification.