What is the HS code for fresh tilapia?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
030271
Fish; fresh or chilled, tilapias (Oreochromis spp.), 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 030271 when importing or exporting fresh or chilled tilapia (Oreochromis spp.). This code specifically applies to whole tilapia, not including fillets or any fish meat categorized under 0304. For example, if you're shipping whole tilapia from a supplier in Africa to a distributor in the U.S., this is the correct code to use.
This code is distinct from HS-6 030272, which covers fresh or chilled other types of fish, like catfish or trout. While both codes fall under the same heading, 030271 is specifically for tilapia, ensuring accurate classification and compliance with customs regulations.
When dealing with tilapia, it's important to note that this code excludes edible fish offal, which is classified under subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99. If your shipment includes parts like fish heads or livers, you would need to look at those specific classifications instead.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
fresh tilapia shipments · chilled tilapia imports · whole tilapia classification · tilapia export code · Oreochromis spp. fish · fish offal exclusions · seafood customs codes · tilapia for processing · bulk tilapia transport · aquaculture tilapia · refrigerated fish transport · wholesale tilapia sales
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Whole fresh tilapia shipped from Vietnam to the U.S.
- Chilled tilapia for a seafood restaurant supply in Canada.
- Fresh tilapia imported for processing into fish dishes.
- Bulk shipments of tilapia for export to European markets.
- Whole tilapia packed in ice for transport to wholesalers.
- Fresh tilapia sourced from aquaculture farms for retail distribution.
- Tilapia shipped in refrigerated containers to maintain freshness.
- Fresh tilapia for sale at fish markets, not including fillets.
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify chilled tilapia for import?
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Are tilapia fillets covered under HS 030271?
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What does HS code 030271 include?
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Can I use HS 030271 for frozen tilapia?
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What are the exclusions for HS 030271?
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How to ship whole tilapia internationally?
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What is the difference between HS 030271 and 030272?
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Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
how to classify fresh or chilled tilapia for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
what products fall under HS code 030271
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
importing whole tilapia into the United States
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
specifics of tilapia classification in international trade
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requirements for shipping tilapia to Canada
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
understanding tilapia exclusions in HS codes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
best practices for exporting fresh tilapia
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
how to handle tilapia shipments for compliance
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 tilapia are covered under HS-6 030271?
- HS-6 030271 covers fresh or chilled whole tilapia, specifically from the Oreochromis species.
- Can I use HS-6 030271 for tilapia fillets?
- No, HS-6 030271 specifically excludes tilapia fillets, which are classified under heading 0304.
- What should I do if my shipment includes tilapia offal?
- If your shipment includes edible fish offal, you will need to refer to subheadings 0302.91 to 0302.99 instead.
- Is HS-6 030271 applicable for frozen tilapia?
- HS-6 030271 is only for fresh or chilled tilapia; frozen tilapia would fall under a different classification.
- What packaging is recommended for shipping tilapia?
- Tilapia should be packed in ice or refrigerated containers to maintain freshness during transport.
- How can I ensure compliance when importing tilapia?
- Make sure to accurately classify your product under HS-6 030271 and check local regulations for any additional requirements.
- What are the customs duties for importing tilapia?
- Customs duties for tilapia can vary by country; check with your customs broker for specific rates.
- Can tilapia be shipped by air?
- Yes, tilapia can be shipped by air, but ensure it is properly packed to maintain temperature and freshness.
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