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1605Crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates, prepared or preserved

Chapter 16: Preparations of meat, fish

Plain-language overview

Use HS-4 1605 when importing prepared or preserved crustaceans, molluscs, or other aquatic invertebrates. For example, if you are shipping canned crab meat or frozen shrimp, this heading applies. It includes various forms of preparation, such as cooking, smoking, or canning.

When choosing between subheadings, consider the specific type of crustacean or mollusc. For instance, HS-6 160510 is for crab preparations, while HS-6 160521 covers shrimps and prawns that are not in airtight containers. If your product is vacuum-sealed, you would use HS-6 160529 instead.

The distinction between molluscs is also crucial. HS-6 160551 is designated for prepared oysters, while HS-6 160552 is for scallops. If you have a mixed seafood product with various molluscs, you may need to look at HS-6 160559 for 'other preparations' that don't fit neatly into the specified categories.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.

HS-4 1605 · prepared crustaceans · mollusc preparations · importing seafood · canned seafood · frozen shrimp · seafood classification · HS-6 subheadings · preserved aquatic invertebrates · seafood import codes

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Canned crab meat (HS-6 160510)
  • Frozen shrimp (HS-6 160521 or 160529)
  • Prepared lobster (HS-6 160530)
  • Smoked oysters (HS-6 160551)
  • Vacuum-sealed scallops (HS-6 160552)
  • Prepared octopus (HS-6 160555)
  • Sea cucumber paste (HS-6 160561)

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS-4 1605 used for?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to classify prepared seafood imports?

Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.

Difference between HS-6 160521 and 160529?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What subheading for canned crab meat?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

How to determine HS code for frozen shrimp?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

What are the HS codes for mollusc preparations?

Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.

Related topics

Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.

how to classify prepared crustaceans for import

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

HS-4 1605 seafood import guidelines

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

choosing the right HS-6 code for molluscs

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

difference between airtight and non-airtight seafood packaging

Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.

importing prepared lobster under HS-4 1605

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

understanding aquatic invertebrate HS codes

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

what to include in seafood import documentation

Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.

how to find the right HS code for seafood products

Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.

Questions & answers

For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.

What types of products fall under HS-4 1605?
HS-4 1605 includes prepared or preserved crustaceans like crab, shrimp, and lobster, as well as molluscs such as oysters and scallops.
How do I choose between HS-6 subheadings?
Select the HS-6 subheading based on the specific type of crustacean or mollusc and their packaging method, such as whether they are in airtight containers.
Can I classify mixed seafood products under HS-4 1605?
Yes, if your product contains various types of prepared seafood, you may use HS-6 160559 for 'other preparations' that don't fit specific categories.
What is the difference between HS-6 160521 and 160529?
HS-6 160521 is for shrimps and prawns not in airtight containers, while HS-6 160529 is for those that are vacuum-sealed or packaged in airtight containers.
What documentation do I need for importing seafood?
You typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any necessary health or safety certificates specific to seafood.
Are there specific regulations for importing molluscs?
Yes, importing molluscs may require compliance with health regulations, including certifications to ensure they are safe for consumption.

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HS-6 subheadings (18)

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