HS Code for Forage pellets

Forage pellets are classified under HS code 1214.90, which covers a variety of vegetable products used for animal fodder. Heading 1214 includes swedes, mangolds, fodder roots, hay, lucerne (alfalfa), clover, sainfoin, forage kale, lupines, vetches, and similar forage products. The classification under 1214.90 is applied when these products are presented in forms other than lucerne (alfalfa) meal and pellets, which are specifically carved out into subheading 1214.10. Forage pellets classified here are typically produced by compressing raw vegetable matter into a cylindrical or spherical shape to facilitate transport and storage. The classification depends on the product being a basic vegetable material that has not been mixed with other nutritional additives or chemical binders that would transform it into a "prepared" animal feed. If the pelletization process involves only the mechanical compression of the plant material, 1214.90 is the correct designation.

Products Included

• Hay pellets
• Clover pellets
• Sainfoin pellets
• Forage kale pellets
• Mixed grass pellets without nutritional additives

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 2309, which covers preparations of a kind used in animal feeding. If the forage pellets contain added molasses, vitamins, minerals, or other grains to create a balanced ration, they move from Chapter 12 to Chapter 23. Another common error is using 1214.10 for all forage pellets; however, 1214.10 is strictly reserved for lucerne (alfalfa) products. Non-alfalfa forage must remain in 1214.90.

FAQ

What is the HS code for forage pellets?

Forage pellets made from hay, clover, or other grasses (excluding alfalfa) are classified under HS code 1214.90.

Can alfalfa pellets be classified under 1214.90?

No, alfalfa (lucerne) pellets are specifically classified under HS code 1214.10.