Product Classification Guide

HS Code for Frozen pork shoulder

0203.22 Meat; of swine, hams, shoulders and cuts thereof, with bone in, frozen
Agriculture & Live Animals
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Frozen pork shoulder is classified under HS code 0203.22. This classification is governed by the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1 and 6. Chapter 2 of the Harmonized System covers meat and edible meat offal. Within this chapter, heading 0203 is dedicated to the meat of swine, whether fresh, chilled, or frozen. The classification further narrows down based on the preservation method and the specific cut of the animal. Subheading 0203.22 is explicitly reserved for frozen shoulders and cuts thereof, provided they remain bone-in. The inclusion of the bone is a primary determinant for this specific code; if the bone is removed during processing, the product would shift to a different subheading. The term 'frozen' implies that the product has been cooled to a temperature well below its freezing point, typically -18°C or lower, to ensure long-term preservation. This code applies to raw meat that has not been seasoned, cooked, or otherwise prepared beyond basic butchery and freezing.

Products Included

  • Frozen bone-in pork shoulder butts
  • Frozen bone-in picnic shoulders
  • Frozen whole pork shoulders with bone
  • Frozen cuts of pork shoulder containing bone

Common Misclassification

A frequent error involves confusing HS code 0203.22 with 0203.12, which covers fresh or chilled bone-in shoulders. The distinction relies entirely on the temperature and preservation state. Another common misclassification is 0203.29, which is used for frozen pork cuts that are boneless. If the shoulder has been deboned before freezing, it must be declared under 0203.29. Additionally, if the pork shoulder has been seasoned, marinated, or cooked, it moves out of Chapter 2 entirely and into Chapter 16, specifically under 1602.49.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen pork shoulder?

The HS code for frozen, bone-in pork shoulder is 0203.22.

Does this code include boneless pork shoulder?

No, boneless frozen pork shoulder is classified under HS code 0203.29. Code 0203.22 is strictly for bone-in cuts.

Industry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for Frozen pork shoulder?

The HS code for Frozen pork shoulder is 020322 (Meat; of swine, hams, shoulders and cuts thereof, with bone in, frozen).

How do I classify Frozen pork shoulder for customs?

Frozen pork shoulder is classified under HS code 020322 — Meat; of swine, hams, shoulders and cuts thereof, with bone in, frozen. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.

Is the HS code for Frozen pork shoulder the same in all countries?

The base HS code 020322 for Frozen pork shoulder is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.