HS Code for Canned sardines
Canned sardines are classified under HS code 1604.13 because they represent a fish preparation where the fish is prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces, but not minced. Chapter 16 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to preparations of meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs, or other aquatic invertebrates. Within this chapter, heading 1604 specifically addresses prepared or preserved fish and caviar. The classification logic follows General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1, which dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since these sardines are typically cooked, canned in oil, brine, or sauce, and remain in identifiable pieces or whole forms, they fall squarely into 1604.13. This subheading is further divided based on the species, with 1604.13 specifically naming sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats. The preservation process, which involves heat treatment in airtight containers, distinguishes these products from fresh or chilled fish found in Chapter 03. The presence of added ingredients like tomato sauce, mustard, or vegetable oil does not change the classification, provided the fish remains the essential character of the product.
Products Included
- Sardines in vegetable oil (whole or fillets)
- Sardines in tomato sauce
- Brisling or sprats in brine
- Smoked sardines in airtight cans
- Sardinella prepared in spicy oil
Common Misclassification
Canned sardines are frequently confused with HS code 1604.20. While 1604.13 covers fish whole or in pieces, 1604.20 is reserved for other prepared or preserved fish that has been minced or homogenized, such as fish pastes or sardine spreads. Additionally, fresh or chilled sardines fall under 0302.43, and frozen sardines fall under 0303.53. These Chapter 03 codes are only for fish that has not been prepared beyond basic cleaning, scaling, or gutting.
FAQ
What is the HS code for canned sardines?
The primary HS code for canned sardines, sardinella, and brisling or sprats is 1604.13.
Does the sauce in the can change the HS code?
No, sardines in oil, tomato sauce, or brine are all classified under 1604.13 as long as the fish is whole or in pieces.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Canned sardines?
The HS code for Canned sardines is 160413 (Fish preparations; sardines, sardinella and brisling or sprats, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced)).
How do I classify Canned sardines for customs?
Canned sardines is classified under HS code 160413 — Fish preparations; sardines, sardinella and brisling or sprats, prepared or preserved, whole or in pieces (but not minced). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Canned sardines the same in all countries?
The base HS code 160413 for Canned sardines is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.