HS Code for Chilled rock lobster

HS code 0306.31 is the international standard for classifying live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters and other sea crawfish. This classification is part of Chapter 3, which governs the trade of aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0306 specifically addresses crustaceans, whether in shell or not, and whether live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. The subheading 0306.31 is restricted to the genera Palinurus, Panulirus, and Jasus, commonly known as spiny lobsters or rock lobsters. It is important to distinguish these from the "true" lobsters of the genus Homarus. The classification covers the animals in their live state or preserved through chilling, which involves lowering the temperature to near 0°C without freezing the tissue. This code is essential for applying specific tariffs and managing quotas for high-value seafood exports.

Products Included

• Live spiny lobsters
• Chilled rock lobsters (whole)
• Fresh sea crawfish
• Chilled Palinurus spp.
• Live Jasus spp.

Common Misclassification

A common error is confusing rock lobsters with "true" lobsters (Homarus spp.), which are classified under 0306.32. If the rock lobster is frozen, it must be classified under 0306.11. Furthermore, if the lobster has been cooked (e.g., boiled in water) and then chilled, it may still fall under 0306, but if it is prepared or preserved in other ways (like canned lobster meat), it moves to heading 1605.

FAQ

What is the HS code for chilled rock lobster?

The HS code for live, fresh, or chilled rock lobsters and other sea crawfish is 0306.31.

Difference between 0306.31 and 0306.32?

0306.31 is for rock/spiny lobsters (Palinurus, Panulirus, Jasus), while 0306.32 is for true lobsters (Homarus species like Maine or European lobsters).