What is HS code 030542 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
030542
Fish; smoked, whether or not cooked before or during smoking, herrings (Clupea harengus, Clupea pallasii), includes fillets, but excludes edible fish offal
Heading 0305 — Fish, dried, salted or in brine; smoked fish, whether or not cooked before, or during the smoking process
Chapter 03: Fish and crustaceans
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 030542 when importing or exporting smoked herring, including products like smoked herring fillets. This code specifically covers herring from the species *Clupea harengus* and *Clupea pallasii*, which are often processed for preservation and flavor enhancement.
This line is distinct from HS-6 030543, which covers other smoked fish types, such as mackerel or salmon. If you’re dealing with smoked fish products that aren’t herring, you’ll need to consider the appropriate classification under that code instead.
The 0305 heading narrows down the broader category of fish and aquatic invertebrates to focus on dried, salted, or smoked varieties. This includes a variety of preservation methods that enhance the shelf life and flavor of the fish.
When classifying your products, remember that this code excludes edible fish offal, which is covered under different classifications. Ensure your product is primarily smoked herring to avoid misclassification.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
smoked herring · HS code 030542 · fish classification · dried fish · salted fish · herring fillets · smoked seafood · fish import regulations · canned herring · frozen smoked fish · food service fish · packaged smoked herring
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Smoked herring fillets packaged in vacuum-sealed bags
- Canned smoked herring in oil or brine
- Frozen smoked herring for retail sale
- Smoked herring sold in bulk for food service
- Pre-packaged smoked herring snacks
- Smoked herring products labeled as ready-to-eat
- Smoked herring used as an ingredient in salads or spreads
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify smoked herring?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are smoked herring fillets covered under HS 030542?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS code 030542?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is canned smoked herring classified as 030542?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I import smoked herring?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the regulations for exporting smoked fish?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Does HS code 030542 include fish offal?
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.
classification of smoked herring for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
examples of products under HS code 030542
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
how to determine HS code for smoked fish
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differences between HS 030542 and 030543
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
requirements for importing smoked herring
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
packaging guidelines for smoked herring products
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
what to include in a shipment of smoked herring
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
export regulations for smoked fish products
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of herring are covered under HS code 030542?
- HS code 030542 specifically covers smoked herring from the species *Clupea harengus* and *Clupea pallasii*.
- Can I classify canned smoked herring under this HS code?
- Yes, canned smoked herring is classified under HS code 030542 as long as it contains the specified herring species.
- What should I do if my product is not exclusively smoked herring?
- If your product includes other types of fish or fish offal, you will need to look for a different HS code that accurately reflects those items.
- Are there specific packaging requirements for smoked herring?
- While there are no specific packaging requirements under HS code 030542, ensure that your product is properly labeled and sealed for freshness.
- What is the difference between HS code 030542 and 030543?
- HS code 030542 is for smoked herring, while 030543 covers other types of smoked fish, such as mackerel or salmon.
- Do I need to provide documentation when importing smoked herring?
- Yes, you will need to provide appropriate import documentation, including health certificates and proof of origin, depending on your country's regulations.
- Is smoked herring considered a ready-to-eat product?
- Yes, smoked herring is typically considered ready-to-eat, but check local regulations for any specific requirements.
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