HS Code for Prepared squid

HS code 1605.54 covers cuttlefish and squid that have been prepared or preserved. This includes a wide range of processed cephalopod products. Under the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System, products that have been cooked (by steaming or boiling), breaded, battered, or preserved in sauces are moved from Chapter 3 to Chapter 16. Squid classified here might be canned in its own ink, prepared as frozen calamari rings with a coating, or seasoned and dried for snack consumption. The inclusion of both cuttlefish and squid in this single subheading reflects their similar biological classification and commercial usage. Proper classification requires identifying that the processing exceeds the simple freezing or drying allowed under heading 0307. For example, while plain dried squid is 0307.49, "shredded seasoned squid" (a common snack) is 1605.54 because the seasoning and shredding process constitutes a preparation. This distinction is important for applying the correct tariff rates, which are often higher for processed seafood than for raw seafood.

Products Included

• Canned squid in oil, brine, or ink
• Breaded and frozen calamari rings
• Seasoned and shredded dried squid snacks
• Boiled or steamed squid meat
• Squid rings preserved in vinegar (pickled)

Common Misclassification

The most frequent error is classifying prepared squid under 0307.43 (frozen squid) or 0307.49 (dried squid). If the product has been cooked or seasoned, it must be in 1605.54. Another common mistake is confusing squid with octopus, which is classified under 1605.55 when prepared.

FAQ

What is the HS code for prepared squid?

The HS code for prepared or preserved squid and cuttlefish is 1605.54.

Is breaded calamari classified as raw fish?

No, breaded calamari is considered a preparation and is classified under HS code 1605.54, even if it is sold in a frozen state.