HS Code for Cattle semen

Cattle semen is classified under HS code 0511.10. This classification is found in Chapter 05, which covers products of animal origin not elsewhere specified or included. Heading 0511 is a broad category for animal products that are not fit for human consumption and are not covered by other chapters of the Harmonized System. Subheading 0511.10 is specifically dedicated to bovine semen. This product is primarily used in the agricultural sector for artificial insemination to improve livestock genetics. The classification is straightforward because of the specific subheading provided for bovine species, reflecting the high volume and economic importance of this commodity in global trade. The product is typically transported in a frozen state using liquid nitrogen containers (cryogenic flasks), but the HS code remains 0511.10 regardless of the temperature or the specific breed of the cattle from which it was collected.

Products Included

• Frozen bovine semen straws
• Fresh or chilled cattle semen
• Semen from domestic bulls (Bos taurus)
• Semen from zebu bulls (Bos indicus)
• Sexed semen for dairy or beef production

Common Misclassification

Cattle semen is occasionally misclassified under 0511.99, which is the residual category for "other" animal products. This usually happens if the person classifying the goods is unaware of the specific 0511.10 subheading. Another potential error involves confusing the semen with animal embryos, which are classified under 0511.99 or 0511.91 depending on the species and state. It is also important not to confuse the biological product with the specialized transport containers (Chapter 73 or 96) or the insemination tools (Chapter 90).

FAQ

What is the HS code for Cattle semen?

The specific HS code for bovine (cattle) semen is 0511.10.

Is there a different code for frozen vs. fresh semen?

No, both frozen and fresh bovine semen are classified under the same HS code, 0511.10.