HS 200811 Nuts, groundnuts and other seeds, whether or not mixed together
Quick Answer: Nuts, groundnuts, and other seeds, whether or not mixed, imported under HS 200811 enter the UK at rates up to 12.00%, the EU at rates up to 12.80%, and the US with rates ranging from Free to 131.8%. This classification specifically applies to edible nuts, groundnuts, and other seeds that have been prepared or preserved in ways not covered by other headings, such as roasting or adding salt. Importers should note that the specific duty rate can vary significantly based on the type of nut or seed and the jurisdiction. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial due to the wide range of applicable tariffs and potential for specific trade agreements to influence rates.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008110000 | — | — | — |
| 2008119100 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 2008119190 | 10.00 % | — | — |
| 2008119800 | 12.00 % | — | — |
| 2008111000 | 12.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008110000 | — | — | — |
| 2008119100 | 11.20 % | — | — |
| 2008111000 | 12.80 % | — | — |
| 2008119110 | 11.20 % | — | — |
| 2008119190 | 11.20 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008110200 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 2008111500 | 131.8% | Free (13 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 2008114600 | 6.6¢/kg | Free (16 programs) | ["kg"] |
| 200811 | — | — | — |
| 2008110500 | Free | — | ["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 2008.11?
Imports of Nuts, groundnuts and other seeds, whether or not mixed together 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 (AU,BH,CL,CO,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) See 9908.12.01 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 200811 cover?
This subheading covers nuts, groundnuts (peanuts), and other seeds, prepared or preserved by vinegar or acetic acid, whether or not mixed together. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this category specifically includes items like pickled peanuts, pickled sunflower seeds, or mixtures of various pickled seeds intended for consumption. The key defining characteristic is preservation through acidification with vinegar or acetic acid.
What falls outside HS 200811?
The following products are excluded from HS 200811: nuts, groundnuts, and seeds that are not preserved by vinegar or acetic acid, such as roasted, salted, or sweetened varieties, which would typically fall under HS 200819. Also excluded are fresh or dried nuts and seeds (Chapter 08), and flours or meals of nuts and seeds (Chapter 11). For instance, plain roasted almonds or raw sunflower seeds are not classified here, nor are peanut butters or seed pastes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 200811?
A common error is misclassifying products that are merely seasoned or flavored with vinegar or acetic acid but not preserved by it. General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) of the Harmonized System mandates classification based on the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For example, nuts coated with a vinegar-flavored powder but not pickled would likely be classified elsewhere, potentially under HS 200819 if they are otherwise prepared or preserved.
How should importers classify products under HS 200811?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 200811 involves a thorough examination of the product's processing. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the nuts, groundnuts, or seeds have been preserved by vinegar or acetic acid. Reviewing the product's ingredient list and manufacturing process is crucial. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, for specific product descriptions and any relevant chapter or heading notes is also essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 200811?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of pickled sunflower seeds, 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 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $3,000 USD = $150.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 2008.11.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 200811?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 200811, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically need 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 2008.11 (prepared nuts, groundnuts, and seeds)?
Import duty rates for HS code 2008.11 vary significantly by country and trade agreement. For example, under the US Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff, prepared groundnuts (peanuts) are often subject to a rate of 10.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under trade agreements like USMCA (formerly NAFTA) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for qualifying goods. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the EU's TARIC database, or the UK's Trade Tariff, to determine the applicable rate for your specific origin and product.
How is the duty calculated for HS 2008.11, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 2008.11 typically depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of weight or volume). For instance, if a country imposes a specific duty of $0.15 per kilogram on prepared groundnuts and you import 1,000 kg valued at $2,000, the duty would be calculated as follows: 1,000 kg * $0.15/kg = $150. If the duty were an ad valorem rate of 10% on the same shipment, the duty would be $2,000 * 10% = $200. Always verify the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or a combination) from the official tariff schedule.
What are the classification criteria for products under HS code 2008.11?
HS code 2008.11 specifically covers 'Groundnuts (peanuts), prepared or preserved, whether or not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter or spirit, alcoholic or not.' This means the product must be groundnuts that have undergone some form of processing beyond simple shelling, such as roasting, salting, candying, or coating. Products that are merely shelled or blanched groundnuts, without further preparation, would typically fall under other HS codes (e.g., HS 1202 for unshelled or shelled groundnuts not prepared or preserved). The key is the 'prepared or preserved' aspect.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 2008.11?
Standard import documentation for HS 2008.11 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the origin of the goods, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, phytosanitary certificates to ensure compliance with agricultural and plant health regulations, and potentially specific food safety declarations or import permits. Customs brokers should verify these requirements with the importing country's customs authority.
How do trade agreements, like USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS 2008.11?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods originating from member countries. For example, under the USMCA, qualifying groundnuts and other seeds from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. Similarly, the EU has numerous trade agreements that can provide preferential tariff treatment for goods from partner countries. To benefit from these agreements, importers must typically provide a valid certificate of origin demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. Consulting the relevant trade agreement text and the importing country's tariff schedule is essential to confirm eligibility and requirements.