HS Code for Dried clams
Dried clams are classified under HS code 0307.79. Chapter 03 of the Harmonized System covers fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 03.07 specifically addresses molluscs, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Clams fall under the family groups specified in the heading description, such as Veneridae, Arcidae, and others. Subheading 0307.79 is the specific code for clams, cockles, and ark shells that have been preserved through drying, salting, or immersion in brine, but have not been smoked or cooked. The classification process requires distinguishing between simple preservation (drying) and preparation (cooking or canning). If the clams are merely dried to reduce moisture content for shelf stability, they remain in Chapter 03. This classification is essential for international trade as it distinguishes raw, preserved seafood from processed food preparations. The product may be presented with the shell or as meat only, provided the preservation method remains limited to drying, salting, or brine without further culinary preparation.
Products Included
- Sun-dried clam meat
- Salted whole clams in shell
- Dried cockles
- Dried ark shells
- Clams preserved in brine (not canned)
Common Misclassification
Dried clams are frequently misclassified under HS code 1605.56. Heading 16.05 is for molluscs that have been prepared or preserved beyond the methods allowed in Chapter 03, such as those that are boiled, steamed, or canned in oil or sauce. Another common error is using 0307.71, which is strictly for live, fresh, or chilled clams, or 0307.72, which is for frozen clams.
FAQ
What is the HS code for Dried clams?
The specific HS code for dried, salted, or brined clams is 0307.79.
Does this code include smoked clams?
No, smoked clams are classified under HS code 0307.79 as well, but the description specifically notes "whether or not smoked," though some regional tariffs may separate them. However, if they are cooked before smoking, they move to 1605.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Dried clams?
The HS code for Dried clams is 030779 (Molluscs; clams, cockle, ark shells (families Arcidae, Arcticidae, Cardiidae, Donacidae, Hiatellidae, Mactridae, Mesodesmatidae, Myidae, Semelidae, Solecurtidae, Solenidae, Tridacnidae, Veneridae), whether in shell or not, dried, salted, in brine, smoked).
How do I classify Dried clams for customs?
Dried clams is classified under HS code 030779 — Molluscs; clams, cockle, ark shells (families Arcidae, Arcticidae, Cardiidae, Donacidae, Hiatellidae, Mactridae, Mesodesmatidae, Myidae, Semelidae, Solecurtidae, Solenidae, Tridacnidae, Veneridae), whether in shell or not, dried, salted, in brine, smoked. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Dried clams the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030779 for Dried clams is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.