HS Code for Frozen horse mackerel
Frozen horse mackerel is classified under HS code 030355. This code is situated within Chapter 3 (Fish and crustaceans) and Heading 0303, which covers frozen fish, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304. Subheading 030355 specifically targets jack and horse mackerel of the genus Trachurus. It is important to distinguish these from "true" mackerels of the Scomber genus. This classification applies to whole fish, headed and gutted (H&G) fish, or fish pieces that still retain the characteristics of the whole fish, provided they are frozen. The freezing process must be sufficient to preserve the fish for long-term storage. If the fish were processed into fillets or minced meat, the classification would shift to heading 0304. The Trachurus species are often referred to as "jacks" in some regions, but for customs purposes, they are grouped under the horse mackerel designation. Proper identification of the genus is vital, as different mackerel species carry different tariff rates and quota restrictions in various jurisdictions.
Products Included
- Whole frozen horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.)
- Frozen horse mackerel, headed and gutted (H&G)
- Frozen horse mackerel, tailed and cleaned
- Frozen jack mackerel
- Frozen pieces of horse mackerel (not fillets)
Common Misclassification
The most common misclassification is confusing horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.) with Atlantic or Pacific mackerel (Scomber spp.), which are classified under HS code 030354. While they share the name "mackerel," they belong to different biological families and genera. Another error is classifying frozen horse mackerel fillets under 030355; fillets must be classified under heading 0304 (specifically 030489 or similar, depending on the species). Additionally, edible offal of the fish (like roe) should be classified under 030391 to 030399.
FAQ
What is the HS code for frozen horse mackerel?
The HS code for frozen horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.) is 030355.
Is horse mackerel the same as Atlantic mackerel in the HS?
No, Atlantic mackerel is classified under 030354, while horse mackerel is classified under 030355.
Industry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS code for Frozen horse mackerel?
The HS code for Frozen horse mackerel is 030355 (Fish; frozen, jack and horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0303.91 to 0303.99).
How do I classify Frozen horse mackerel for customs?
Frozen horse mackerel is classified under HS code 030355 — Fish; frozen, jack and horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0303.91 to 0303.99. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is the HS code for Frozen horse mackerel the same in all countries?
The base HS code 030355 for Frozen horse mackerel is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.