HS 200551 Beans (Vigna spp., Phaseolus spp.)
Quick Answer: Beans (Vigna spp., Phaseolus spp.) imported under HS 200551 enter the UK at 16.00%, the EU at 17.60%, and the US with rates varying from 2.1¢/kg to 6.6¢/kg on the entire container's contents, with some trade agreements offering duty-free entry. This code specifically covers beans, such as kidney beans or green beans, prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, not frozen, and not containing added spirit, whether or not containing added sugar or other sweeteners. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate differences across major markets and verify specific preferential rates applicable to their origin country. CustomTariffs aggregates this data to assist in trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005510000 | 16.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005510000 | 17.60 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200551 | — | — | — |
| 2005512020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 20055140 | 2.1¢/kg on entire contents of container | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 2005514040 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 20055120 | 1.5¢/kg on entire contents of container | Free (17 programs) | — |
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 2005.51?
Imports of Beans (Vigna spp., Phaseolus spp.) 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, 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 200551 cover?
This subheading covers prepared or preserved beans, specifically those of the genera *Vigna* (e.g., black-eyed peas) and *Phaseolus* (e.g., kidney beans, green beans, wax beans), which are not specified or included elsewhere in Chapter 20 of the Harmonized System. According to the World Customs Organization's Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category includes beans that have undergone processing such as canning, freezing, or drying, but are not in the form of flour, meal, or paste. The key is that they remain recognizable as whole or cut beans.
What falls outside HS 200551?
The following products are excluded from HS 200551: beans prepared or preserved in vinegar or acetic acid (classified under HS 2008), beans in brine or simply salted (often classified under HS 0710 for frozen or HS 0711 for provisionally preserved), and beans in the form of flour, meal, or paste (typically classified under HS 1106). Additionally, fresh or chilled beans, even if shelled, are classified under Chapter 7, specifically HS 0708.20. For instance, canned baked beans in tomato sauce are generally classified under HS 2103.90, not HS 2005.51.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 200551?
A common error is misclassifying beans that are part of a mixed dish or meal. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If beans are mixed with other vegetables or ingredients in a preparation that gives them their essential character, they may fall under a more specific heading for mixed vegetables (e.g., HS 2004 or 2005). Furthermore, confusing beans preserved in brine with those simply canned without significant added liquid can lead to incorrect classification.
How should importers classify products under HS 200551?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 200551 involves a detailed examination of the product's form and preparation. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product consists of beans of the genera *Vigna* or *Phaseolus* and that they are prepared or preserved in a manner not specifically excluded by other headings. Consulting the official WCO Explanatory Notes and the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, is crucial. Reviewing the ingredient list and processing method will confirm if the product meets the criteria for this subheading.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 200551?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of canned green beans, 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 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 200551?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 200551, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating beans from Canada and Mexico can enter the US duty-free. For preferential treatment, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A. The specific preferential rate and documentation depend on the origin country and the terms of the applicable trade agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 200551 (Beans, prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, not frozen, other than those of heading 2002)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 200551 can vary. For example, the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) lists a rate of 16.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, under the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may be eligible for free entry. Importers and customs brokers must consult the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC for the US, EU TARIC for the EU, UK Trade Tariff for the UK) for the most current and applicable rates based on the country of origin and any trade agreements in force.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 200551 if the duty is based on weight?
While many duties for HS 200551 are ad valorem (a percentage of the value), some tariffs may include a specific duty component, such as a per kilogram rate. For example, if a tariff stipulated a rate of 6.6¢/kg on the entire contents of the container, and a shipment contained 10,000 kg of beans, the specific duty would be 10,000 kg * $0.066/kg = $660.00. Importers must check the specific tariff lines in their destination country's customs regulations, as the duty calculation can be a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, or solely one or the other. Always verify the exact unit of measure for specific duties.
What specific documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 200551?
Standard documentation for importing prepared beans (HS 200551) includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Food products may also require specific health and safety certifications or phytosanitary certificates to ensure compliance with the importing country's food safety regulations. Always consult the customs authority of the importing country for a comprehensive list of required documents.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 200551, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 200551. For example, goods originating from countries party to the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may enter the US, Canada, or Mexico duty-free if they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, agreements like the EU's Association Agreements or the UK's trade deals with various countries can offer reduced or zero duties. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin for the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, as required by the importing country's customs administration.
Are there specific classification criteria that distinguish HS 200551 from other codes for prepared beans?
Yes, HS code 200551 specifically covers 'Beans (Vigna spp., Phaseolus spp.)' that are prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid, and are not frozen. This means the beans must be processed (e.g., canned, dried, or cooked) but not pickled. If the beans are preserved in vinegar or acetic acid, they would likely fall under HS code 200540. If they are frozen, they would be classified under Chapter 7 or potentially other headings depending on the specific preparation. It's crucial to identify the exact species of bean (e.g., 'Vigna' or 'Phaseolus') and the method of preservation to ensure correct classification according to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national tariff interpretations.