What is HS code 030231?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
030231
Fish; fresh or chilled, albacore or longfinned tunas (Thunnus alalunga), excluding fillets, fish meat of 0304, and edible fish offal of subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99
Heading 0302 — Fish; fresh or chilled, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304
Chapter 03: Fish and crustaceans
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 030231 when importing or exporting fresh or chilled albacore or longfinned tunas, specifically the species *Thunnus alalunga*. For example, if you are shipping whole tunas from a fishing vessel directly to a seafood distributor, this code applies.
This code is distinct from HS-6 030239, which covers other fresh or chilled tunas not specified as albacore or longfinned. If you are dealing with bluefin or yellowfin tunas, you would classify those under the latter code instead.
The 030231 classification specifically excludes fish fillets and other fish meat categorized under 0304. If your shipment includes processed tuna products like steaks or canned tuna, those would not fall under this HS-6 line.
Understanding the nuances of these classifications is crucial for compliance with customs regulations and ensuring accurate tariff assessments.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
fresh albacore tuna · longfinned tuna · whole tunas · seafood import · customs classification · tariff codes · fishing vessel shipments · chilled fish · seafood distribution · fish export regulations · non-processed tuna · Thunnus alalunga · fresh fish customs · aquatic invertebrates · fish meat classification
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Whole fresh albacore tunas shipped to a seafood market
- Chilled longfinned tunas packed in ice for export
- Fresh tunas sold at a fish auction
- Direct deliveries from fishing boats to restaurants
- Bulk shipments of whole tunas for processing
- Fresh albacore tunas exported to international markets
- Tunas caught in the Atlantic Ocean and shipped fresh
- Whole fish sold to wholesalers for distribution
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify fresh albacore tuna?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are longfinned tunas included in HS-6 030231?
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What products fall under HS-6 030231?
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How to import fresh fish using HS codes?
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What are the customs requirements for tuna shipments?
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Can I use HS-6 030231 for processed tuna?
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What is the difference between HS-6 030231 and 030239?
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 albacore tuna for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What does HS code 030231 cover specifically
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Importing fresh longfinned tunas regulations
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Shipping whole albacore tunas internationally
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Customs duties for fresh fish shipments
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Understanding fish classifications for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Requirements for exporting fresh tunas
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between various tuna HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of fish are classified under HS-6 030231?
- HS-6 030231 covers fresh or chilled albacore or longfinned tunas, specifically the species *Thunnus alalunga*.
- Can I use HS-6 030231 for frozen tuna?
- No, HS-6 030231 is specifically for fresh or chilled tunas. Frozen tunas would require a different classification.
- What is the difference between HS-6 030231 and HS-6 030239?
- HS-6 030231 is for fresh albacore or longfinned tunas, while HS-6 030239 covers other types of fresh or chilled tunas.
- Are there any exclusions under HS-6 030231?
- Yes, this code excludes fish fillets, fish meat of heading 0304, and edible fish offal.
- What documentation do I need for importing HS-6 030231?
- You will typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and possibly a health certificate depending on the destination country.
- Is there a specific packaging requirement for fresh tunas?
- Fresh tunas should be packed in ice or refrigerated containers to maintain freshness during transport.
- How do I ensure compliance with customs for HS-6 030231?
- Make sure to accurately declare the product, provide necessary documentation, and verify the classification with customs authorities if unsure.
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