HS Code for Sloes

Sloes, the fruit of the blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), are classified under HS code 0809.40. This classification is determined by the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), specifically focusing on Chapter 8, which covers edible fruit and nuts. Within this chapter, heading 0809 is reserved for stone fruits such as apricots, cherries, peaches, plums, and sloes, provided they are in a fresh state. The botanical relationship between plums and sloes justifies their grouping under the same subheading. To qualify for this code, the fruit must not have been cooked, frozen, or preserved beyond the simple refrigeration required for transport. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the sloes are intended for direct consumption or for industrial use, such as the production of gin or preserves, as long as they remain fresh and unprocessed at the time of customs declaration.

Products Included

• Fresh sloes (Prunus spinosa)
• Wild sloes for commercial processing
• Fresh bullaces (a variety of wild plum)
• Fresh damson plums

Common Misclassification

Sloes are frequently misclassified under HS code 0811.90, which covers fruit that has been frozen. If the sloes are imported in a frozen state to preserve them for off-season gin production, they must move to 0811. Another common error involves HS code 0812.90, which applies to fruit provisionally preserved (for example, by sulfur dioxide gas or in brine) but unsuitable in that state for immediate consumption. Dried sloes are classified under 0813.40. It is critical to distinguish between the fresh fruit and those that have undergone preservation processes.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Sloes?

The HS code for fresh sloes is 0809.40, which covers plums and sloes.

Does this code apply to sloes used for making sloe gin?

Yes, as long as the sloes are fresh and have not been processed, frozen, or preserved in alcohol prior to importation, they fall under 0809.40.