HS Code for Frozen ark shells

The classification of frozen ark shells under HS code 0307.72 is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System. Specifically, GRI 1 states that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Chapter 3 covers fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Heading 0307 is dedicated to molluscs, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. Within this heading, the 0307.7x series specifically addresses clams, cockles, and ark shells belonging to families such as Arcidae. The subheading 0307.72 is reserved for these specific molluscs when they are presented in a frozen state. This classification applies regardless of whether the shells are intact or if the meat has been removed, provided no further processing, such as smoking or cooking beyond simple steaming in the shell, has occurred. The product must remain in its natural state, preserved only by freezing, to qualify for this specific code.

Products Included

• Frozen whole ark shells (Arcidae family)
• Frozen ark shell meat (shucked)
• Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) blood clams
• Frozen Scapharca subcrenata
• Frozen Anadara broughtonii

Common Misclassification

Frozen ark shells are frequently misclassified under HS code 0307.71, which is reserved for live, fresh, or chilled clams, cockles, and ark shells. The distinction lies entirely in the method of preservation; once the product is frozen, it must move to 0307.72. Another common error is using HS code 1605.56. This code is for prepared or preserved molluscs. If the ark shells have been boiled in water (outside of the shell), canned, or preserved in vinegar or oil, they are no longer considered raw frozen products and must be classified under Chapter 16. Additionally, 0307.79 is sometimes used, but this is a residual category for dried, salted, or smoked versions, not frozen ones.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen ark shells?

The correct HS code for frozen ark shells is 0307.72, which covers frozen clams, cockles, and ark shells.

Does this code include ark shells that have been cooked?

No, if the ark shells have been fully cooked or prepared, they should be classified under HS code 1605.56. However, molluscs that are steamed or boiled in their shells as a part of the freezing process may still fall under 0307.72.