HS Code for Frozen cooked rock lobster

Frozen cooked rock lobster is classified under HS code 0306.11. This classification is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1 and 6. Chapter 3 covers fish and crustaceans, and heading 0306 specifically addresses crustaceans, whether in shell or not. The subheading 0306.11 is reserved for rock lobsters and other sea crawfish of the genera Palinurus, Panulirus, and Jasus. A critical aspect of this classification is that the product remains in this category even if it has been cooked by steaming or boiling in water before or during the freezing process, provided it remains in its shell. This is an exception to the general rule that cooked food preparations fall under Chapter 16, as the HS nomenclature explicitly allows for simple boiling or steaming of crustaceans in shell within Chapter 3.

Products Included

• Frozen whole rock lobsters (Palinurus spp.)
• Frozen rock lobster tails in shell
• Frozen sea crawfish (Panulirus spp.) cooked by steaming
• Frozen Jasus species lobsters boiled in water
• Frozen spiny lobsters in shell

Common Misclassification

This code is frequently confused with HS code 0306.12, which is specifically for 'Homarus' species (true lobsters with large claws). While both are lobsters, the biological genus determines the code. Another common error is using HS code 1605.30. Code 1605.30 is for lobster that has been prepared or preserved beyond simple steaming or boiling, or lobster meat that has been removed from the shell. If the rock lobster is frozen but the shell has been removed, it must be classified under Chapter 16 rather than 0306.11.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen cooked rock lobster?

The correct HS code is 0306.11, which covers frozen rock lobsters and other sea crawfish, including those cooked in shell.

Does this code include lobster meat without the shell?

No, if the lobster meat is removed from the shell and then frozen, it is generally classified under HS code 1605.30 as a prepared or preserved crustacean.