HS Code for Frozen cold-water shrimp

Frozen cold-water shrimp and prawns are classified under HS code 0306.16. This code specifically targets the species Pandalus spp. and Crangon crangon. These species are typically found in the colder waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific. The classification applies whether the shrimp are in shell or not. A unique aspect of heading 0306 is that it includes crustaceans that have been cooked by steaming or boiling in water while still in their shells before being frozen. This is a common commercial practice for cold-water shrimp. The HS system distinguishes between cold-water and warm-water species because they represent different market segments and biological origins. Accurate classification is vital for adhering to quotas and environmental regulations that may apply specifically to northern shrimp fisheries.

Products Included

• Frozen Pandalus borealis (Northern shrimp)
• Frozen Crangon crangon (Common shrimp) in shell
• Frozen peeled cold-water prawns
• Cooked and then frozen cold-water shrimp (in shell)

Common Misclassification

Frozen cold-water shrimp are often misclassified under HS code 0306.17, which is the category for "other" frozen shrimps and prawns, primarily warm-water species like Vannamei or Black Tiger shrimp. Another error involves HS code 1605.21, which is for shrimp that are prepared or preserved (e.g., peeled and cooked shrimp that are not in shell). If the shrimp are cooked and peeled before freezing, they move to Chapter 16.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Frozen cold-water shrimp?

The HS code for frozen cold-water shrimps and prawns (Pandalus spp., Crangon crangon) is 0306.16.

Can shrimp be cooked and still fall under 0306.16?

Yes, but only if they are cooked by steaming or boiling in water while still in the shell. If they are peeled and then cooked, they are classified in heading 1605.