HS Code for Frozen cooked lobster

Frozen lobsters of the genus Homarus are classified under HS code 0306.12. This genus specifically includes the American lobster (Homarus americanus) and the European lobster (Homarus gammarus). These are the "true" lobsters characterized by their large, meat-filled claws. The classification is strictly defined by the biological genus. If the lobster is a rock lobster or a spiny lobster (which belong to the genera Palinurus, Panulirus, or Jasus), it must be classified under 0306.11 instead. The product can be imported whole, as tails, or as meat, provided it is frozen. The rules for Chapter 3 allow for the lobster to be cooked by steaming or boiling in water while in the shell before freezing. This is a common way to process lobster for the retail and food service sectors. If the lobster is prepared in any other way—such as being cooked out of the shell, or being part of a prepared meal with sauces—it moves to Chapter 16. Accurate classification is vital because Homarus lobsters are high-value commodities often subject to specific size limits, conservation regulations, and varying duty rates depending on the country of origin and trade agreements.

Products Included

• Frozen whole American lobster (Homarus americanus)
• Frozen European lobster tails (Homarus gammarus)
• Frozen lobster claws (Homarus spp.)
• Frozen lobster meat (raw or cooked in-shell)

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is using 0306.11, which is reserved for rock lobsters and spiny lobsters. These species do not have the large claws characteristic of the Homarus genus. Another common error is using 1605.30, which is for prepared or preserved lobster. If the lobster meat is removed from the shell and then cooked, or if it is preserved in a way other than freezing (like canning), it belongs in 1605.30.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen cooked lobster?

The HS code for frozen lobsters of the genus Homarus (cooked in-shell) is 0306.12.

Is frozen lobster tail classified under 0306.12?

Yes, as long as the tail is from a Homarus species and is frozen. If it is a spiny lobster tail, it would be 0306.11.