HS Code for Live crustaceans

Live crustaceans classified under HS code 0306.39 are categorized based on their biological state and the level of processing they have undergone. Chapter 3 of the Harmonized System is dedicated to fish and crustaceans, molluscs, and other aquatic invertebrates. Within this chapter, heading 0306 specifically addresses crustaceans, whether in shell or not. The subheading 0306.39 serves as a residual category for live, fresh, or chilled crustaceans that are not explicitly named in the preceding subheadings, such as rock lobsters, lobsters, crabs, Norway lobsters, or shrimps and prawns. Classification here requires that the product has not been frozen, dried, salted, or cooked by steaming or boiling in water. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since this product is live and does not fall under the specific species-named codes, it is relegated to the 'other' category 0306.39. This ensures that less common species or specific varieties of live crustaceans are captured under a standardized code, provided they meet the criteria of being live, fresh, or chilled and have not been subjected to preservation methods beyond simple chilling.

Products Included

• Live freshwater crayfish
• Live mantis shrimp
• Fresh or chilled barnacles
• Live slipper lobsters
• Fresh or chilled krill (not frozen)
• Live langoustines (if not classified as Norway lobsters)

Common Misclassification

A frequent error involves confusing 0306.39 with 0306.17 or 0306.19, which cover frozen crustaceans. If the product has been frozen to any degree for preservation, it must move to the 0306.1x series. Another common mistake is using 1605, which is reserved for crustaceans that have been prepared or preserved beyond simple chilling or steaming in shell, such as those that are peeled and then cooked or canned. Additionally, if the crustaceans are dead and not fresh or chilled (e.g., dried or salted), they should be classified under 0306.99.

FAQ

What is the HS code for live crustaceans?

The HS code for live crustaceans not specifically named elsewhere (like crabs or lobsters) is 0306.39.

Does this code include crustaceans that are cooked?

No, 0306.39 is strictly for live, fresh, or chilled products. Cooked crustaceans, even if chilled, are generally classified under 0306.31 through 0306.36 if cooked in shell by steaming or boiling, or under heading 1605 if further prepared.