Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Cereal pellets

1103.20 Cereal pellets
Agriculture & Live Animals
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HS code 1103.20 covers cereal pellets, which are products of the milling industry. According to the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, pellets are defined as products which have been agglomerated either directly by compression or by the addition of a binder in a proportion not exceeding 3% by weight. This classification is strictly for products that have not been further prepared for immediate consumption as food. They are typically intermediate products used in the food processing industry or for specific industrial applications. The classification depends on the cereal type (wheat, rye, barley, etc.) and the physical form (pelletized). It is essential to distinguish these from pellets used for animal feed, which are classified based on their nutritional composition and intended use in Chapter 23. The 3% binder rule is a strict threshold; exceeding this limit or adding ingredients that change the character of the product to a food preparation will result in a shift to Chapter 19. For customs purposes, the product must retain the essential character of a milling product, meaning it is essentially ground or broken grain that has been reshaped for easier handling or transport.

Products Included

  • Wheat pellets for industrial processing
  • Barley pellets (non-fodder)
  • Maize (corn) pellets
  • Rye pellets
  • Oat pellets

Common Misclassification

Cereal pellets are often confused with HS code 2309.90, which covers preparations of a kind used in animal feeding. If the pellets contain additives specifically for nutritional supplementation for livestock, they must be moved to Chapter 23. Additionally, they may be confused with 1904.10 if they are puffed or roasted for use as snacks.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cereal pellets?

Cereal pellets intended for human consumption or industrial use (not animal feed) are classified under HS code 1103.20.

What is the maximum binder allowed in 1103.20?

To remain in Chapter 11, the pellets must not contain more than 3% by weight of added binder, such as starch or molasses.

Industry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Cereal pellets?

The HS code for Cereal pellets is 110320 (Cereal pellets).

How do I classify Cereal pellets for customs?

Cereal pellets is classified under HS code 110320 — Cereal pellets. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Cereal pellets the same in all countries?

The base HS code 110320 for Cereal pellets is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.