HS Code for Chilled ark shells

Chilled ark shells are classified under HS code 0307.71. This code is part of Chapter 3, which encompasses fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. Heading 0307 is dedicated to molluscs, whether in shell or not, and covers various states including live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Subheading 0307.71 specifically groups clams, cockles, and ark shells (families Arcidae, Arcticidae, Cardiidae, Donacidae, Hiatellidae, Mactridae, Mesodesmatidae, Myidae, Semelidae, Solecurtidae, Solenidae, Tridacnidae, and Veneridae). The classification requires the ark shells to be in a live, fresh, or chilled state. Chilling refers to the process of lowering the temperature of the product to approximately 0°C without freezing it. This code applies to the molluscs regardless of whether they are presented in their shells or as shucked meat, provided they have not been cooked or otherwise preserved.

Products Included

• Live ark shells (Arcidae family)
• Fresh ark shells in shell
• Chilled ark shell meat (shucked)
• Chilled blood clams (a type of ark shell)

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with frozen ark shells, which are categorized under HS code 0307.72. Importers often fail to distinguish between chilled and frozen states in documentation. Furthermore, if the ark shells have been steamed, boiled, or otherwise cooked before being chilled, they may fall under HS code 0307.79, which covers other preparations of these molluscs. It is also important not to confuse ark shells with other molluscs like scallops (0307.21) or mussels (0307.31), which have their own specific subheadings within the 0307 group.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled ark shells?

The HS code for live, fresh, or chilled ark shells is 0307.71.

Can shucked ark shell meat be classified here?

Yes, as long as the meat is fresh or chilled and has not been cooked or frozen, it remains under HS code 0307.71.