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HS-6 · Subheading

030632

Crustaceans; live, fresh or chilled, lobsters (Homarus spp.), whether in shell or not

Heading 0306Crustaceans; in shell or not, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine; smoked, cooked or not before or during smoking; in shell, steamed or boiled, whether or not chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine

Chapter 03: Fish and crustaceans

Plain-language overview

Use HS-6 030632 when importing or exporting live or chilled lobsters, such as Homarus spp. For example, if you're shipping a crate of fresh lobsters from Maine to a seafood distributor, this is the code to use.

This code specifically applies to lobsters that are either alive or freshly chilled. It differs from HS-6 030634, which covers frozen lobsters. Knowing the difference is crucial for proper classification and compliance.

When dealing with live lobsters, ensure they are packed in a way that maintains their health during transit. If you have lobsters that are cooked or processed, you would need to look at different HS codes under this heading.

Make sure to check local regulations regarding the importation of live seafood, as there may be specific health certifications required for shipments.

Keywords & topics

Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.

live lobsters · chilled lobsters · HS code 030632 · lobster shipping · seafood import · lobster export · fresh seafood · lobster regulations · aquatic invertebrates · lobster packaging · Homarus spp. · seafood distribution · live seafood transport · lobster health requirements · lobster aquaculture · lobster market · lobster festival · lobster research

Examples

Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.

  • Shipping live lobsters from Canada to the US
  • Exporting chilled lobsters to a restaurant in Europe
  • Transporting lobsters in aerated tanks for aquaculture purposes
  • Receiving a shipment of fresh lobsters packed in ice
  • Importing lobsters for a seafood festival
  • Distributing live lobsters to local markets
  • Packaging lobsters in breathable containers for air freight
  • Transporting lobsters for research purposes in marine biology

Common questions

Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.

What is HS code 030632?

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

How to classify live lobsters for import?

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

Are there regulations for shipping live lobsters?

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

What packaging is best for live lobsters?

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

How do I export chilled lobsters?

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

What are the health requirements for live lobsters?

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

Can I import lobsters without certification?

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

What is the difference between HS codes for lobsters?

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 live lobsters under HS codes

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

requirements for importing live lobsters into the US

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

best practices for shipping chilled lobsters

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

understanding HS code for fresh lobsters

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

regulations for exporting lobsters to Europe

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

packaging requirements for live seafood transport

Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.

certification needed for importing lobsters

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

differences between live and frozen lobster 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 does HS code 030632 cover?
HS code 030632 covers live or chilled lobsters, specifically from the Homarus species.
Can I use this code for frozen lobsters?
No, for frozen lobsters, you would need to use HS code 030634 instead.
What are the packaging requirements for shipping live lobsters?
Live lobsters should be packed in breathable containers with adequate moisture and temperature control to ensure their health during transit.
Are there any health certifications required for importing live lobsters?
Yes, many countries require health certifications to ensure the lobsters are free from disease before importation.
How do I ensure compliance when exporting lobsters?
Check both the exporting and importing countries' regulations regarding seafood, including any necessary permits and health inspections.
What should I do if my lobsters are cooked?
If your lobsters are cooked, you will need to classify them under a different HS code, such as 1605 for prepared or preserved crustaceans.
Can I import lobsters without a license?
It depends on the country. Some may require a specific import license or permit for live seafood.
What is the best way to transport lobsters for aquaculture?
Use aerated tanks or insulated containers to maintain optimal conditions for the lobsters during transport.

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