HS Code for Frozen sea crawfish

Frozen sea crawfish, also known as rock lobsters or spiny lobsters, are classified under HS code 0306.11. This classification is part of Chapter 3, which encompasses crustaceans. Heading 0306 is dedicated to crustaceans, whether in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted, or in brine. The subheading 0306.11 specifically targets frozen rock lobsters and other sea crawfish belonging to the genera Palinurus, Panulirus, and Jasus. A unique aspect of this classification is that it includes crustaceans that have been cooked by steaming or boiling in water before being frozen, provided they remain in their shells. This is an exception to the general rule that cooked food moves to Chapter 16. The classification is determined by the species (sea crawfish vs. true lobsters) and the preservation state (frozen).

Products Included

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

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 0306.12, which is reserved for true lobsters of the genus Homarus (such as Maine or European lobsters). While both are commercially referred to as lobsters, the biological genus determines the code. Another common error is using 0306.19 for freshwater crayfish; although they share the name "crawfish" in some regions, freshwater varieties are classified under "other" crustaceans in 0306.19. If the meat is removed from the shell and then cooked, it must be classified in heading 1605.

FAQ

What is the HS code for frozen sea crawfish?

The HS code for frozen sea crawfish (rock lobsters) is 0306.11.

Can the crawfish be cooked and still use this code?

Yes, but only if they are cooked by steaming or boiling in water and remain in their shell. If the meat is cooked out of the shell, it moves to 1605.30.