Product classification
HS code for Live reptiles: 0106.20
Reptiles, live (including snakes and turtles).
Classification of live reptiles under HS 0106.20
Live reptiles are classified under HS code 010620. This code is part of the Harmonized System's Chapter 1, which covers live animals. The heading 0106 is reserved for animals that do not fit into the primary livestock categories. Subheading 010620 specifically targets the class Reptilia, which includes a diverse range of species from snakes to lizards and crocodilians. The classification is based on the biological characteristics of the animals. This code is used globally to track the movement of reptiles for the exotic pet trade, zoological exhibitions, and scientific study. Proper classification is vital for compliance with international treaties such as CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), which often regulates the species falling under this specific HS code. Importers must ensure that the correct scientific names are provided alongside this HS code to facilitate customs clearance and ensure that all environmental and wildlife protection laws are followed.
- Covers
- Live snakes (including pythons, boas, and venomous species)
- Live turtles, tortoises, and terrapins
- Live lizards, including iguanas, geckos, and chameleons
- Live crocodiles, alligators, and caimans
- Live tuataras and other rare reptilian species
- Also under 0106.20
- Reptile Basics (ball pythons)
- Zoo Med Laboratories (various reptiles)
- Backwater Reptiles (online sales)
- San Diego Zoo (crocodiles)
Codes often confused with 0106.20
Common mistake. One of the most common misclassifications for live reptiles involves confusing them with other live animals under 010690 (Other live animals) or 010639 (Other birds). However, since 010620 is a specific subheading for reptiles, it must take precedence. Another significant area of confusion is between live animals and their products. For instance, reptile skins are classified under 410320, and items made from tortoise-shell are classified under 0507. If a reptile is imported in a preserved state (e.g., taxidermy), it should be classified under 9705 as a specimen of zoological interest rather than a live animal. Furthermore, aquatic reptiles like sea turtles are sometimes mistakenly looked for in Chapter 3 (Fish), but all reptiles remain in Chapter 1 regardless of their habitat.
Top exporters and importers of HS 010620 (the code used for live reptiles), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 010620 (the code used for live reptiles) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 17% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 010620, not only live reptiles.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $10M 17% of world exports
- 2 United States $7.2M 12% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $7.1M 11% of world exports
World total: $62M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $11M 20% of world imports
- 2 Japan $10M 18% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$7.1M 13% of world imports · partner records ↗
World total: $56M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for live reptiles
Brazil classifies live reptiles under NCM 0106.20.00: HS 0106.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about live reptiles
What is the HS code for Live reptiles?
The HS code for Live reptiles is 010620 (Reptiles; live (including snakes and turtles)). The HS code for live reptiles is 010620. This code covers all live members of the class Reptilia, including snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians.
How do I classify Live reptiles for customs?
Live reptiles is classified under HS code 010620 — Reptiles; live (including snakes and turtles). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include venomous snakes?
Yes, all live snakes, whether venomous or non-venomous, are classified under HS code 010620. However, additional permits and safety regulations usually apply to the transport of venomous species.
Which countries are the top exporters of live reptiles (HS 010620)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 010620 (the code used for live reptiles) in UN Comtrade data were China ($10M, 17% of world exports), the United States ($7.2M) and the Netherlands ($7.1M). World exports came to about $62M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of live reptiles (HS 010620)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 010620 (the code used for live reptiles) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($11M, 20% of world imports), Japan ($10M) and Vietnam (about $7.1M). World imports came to about $56M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Live reptiles the same in all countries?
The base HS code 010620 for Live reptiles is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for live reptiles in Brazil?
In Brazil, live reptiles (HS 010620) is classified under NCM 0106.20.00.