HS Code for Alfalfa pellets

Alfalfa pellets are classified under HS code 1214.10, which specifically covers lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets. This classification is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), specifically Rule 1, which dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Chapter 12 encompasses oil seeds, industrial plants, and fodder. Heading 1214 is dedicated to forage products like hay, clover, and lucerne. The subheading 1214.10 is a specific provision for alfalfa that has been processed into meal or compressed into pellet form. This process involves dehydrating the alfalfa and using mechanical pressure to create dense pellets, which facilitates easier transport and storage while maintaining the nutritional value for livestock. As long as the product consists essentially of alfalfa and has not been mixed with other nutritional additives that would transform it into a prepared animal feed, it remains within this code.

Products Included

• Dehydrated alfalfa pellets
• Sun-dried alfalfa pellets
• Ground alfalfa meal
• Compressed alfalfa cubes (pure)
• Alfalfa leaf meal

Common Misclassification

A frequent error is classifying alfalfa pellets under HS code 2309.90, which covers "Preparations of a kind used in animal feeding." This code is only appropriate if the alfalfa is mixed with other ingredients like grains, vitamins, or minerals to form a complete ration. Another common mistake is using 1214.90, which is the residual category for "other" forage products like hay or clover; however, because alfalfa has its own specific subheading (1214.10), the more specific code must be used according to GRI 3(a).

FAQ

What is the HS code for alfalfa pellets?

The correct HS code for pure alfalfa pellets is 1214.10.00.

Does the HS code change if the pellets contain binders?

Small amounts of binders, such as molasses or lignosulfonates (typically under 3% by weight), generally do not change the classification from 1214.10, as the product still retains the essential character of alfalfa fodder.