HS Code for Chilled cuttlefish

Chilled cuttlefish is classified under HS code 0307.42, which falls within Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System. This chapter encompasses fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0307 specifically covers molluscs, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. The classification process follows the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI), where the state of the product—in this case, "fresh or chilled"—is the primary determinant for the subheading. Cuttlefish and squid are grouped together under the 0307.4x series. Subheading 0307.42 is explicitly for live, fresh, or chilled specimens. Chilling involves lowering the temperature of the cuttlefish to near the freezing point of water without actually reaching a frozen state. This preservation method is intended to maintain the product's fresh characteristics for a limited duration. If the cuttlefish were to be subjected to freezing temperatures that alter the state of the meat to "frozen," the classification would shift to 0307.43. It is also important to note that the cuttlefish must be raw; any heat treatment or preservation in vinegar or oil would move the product to Chapter 16.

Products Included

• Fresh Sepia officinalis (Common cuttlefish)
• Chilled Rossia macrosoma (Stout bobtail)
• Live Sepiola spp. (Little cuttlefish)
• Chilled cuttlefish cleaned and gutted
• Fresh cuttlefish with or without skin

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs between 0307.42 (fresh/chilled) and 0307.43 (frozen). Because cuttlefish is often transported in ice, customs officials must verify if the product is merely chilled or if it has been deep-frozen. Another common error is using 1605.54, which is for prepared or preserved cuttlefish and squid. If the cuttlefish has been breaded, pre-cooked, or canned, it must be classified under 1605.54 rather than 0307.42.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled cuttlefish?

The HS code for live, fresh, or chilled cuttlefish and squid is 0307.42.

Can this code be used for frozen squid?

No, frozen squid and cuttlefish are classified under HS code 0307.43.