What is HS code 040520 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
040520
Dairy produce; dairy spreads
Heading 0405 — Butter and other fats and oils derived from milk; dairy spreads
Chapter 04: Dairy produce; birds' eggs; natural honey
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 040520 when importing or exporting dairy spreads, specifically those made from butter or other milk fats. For example, if you're shipping a tub of butter spread that contains at least 80% butterfat, this is the code you need.
This code is distinct from HS-6 040510, which covers pure butter. If your product is a blend or spread that includes other ingredients, such as flavorings or vegetable oils, then 040520 is the correct classification.
The 040520 line encompasses dairy spreads that may be used as toppings or cooking ingredients, often found in tubs or containers. These products are typically marketed for easy spreading on bread or crackers.
When classifying your product, consider whether it meets the criteria for a dairy spread. If it’s a pure butter product without additional ingredients, you should look at HS-6 040510 instead.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
dairy spreads classification · butter spread HS code · 040520 dairy products · importing dairy spreads · exporting butter products · milk fat spreads · butter and oil blends · dairy product regulations · food customs classification · HS code for dairy · butterfat content · spreadable dairy products · tub packaging dairy · flavored butter spreads
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- A 500g tub of garlic-flavored dairy spread made from butter and vegetable oils
- 250g package of herb-infused butter spread for cooking and baking
- 1kg container of cream cheese spread with butter as a primary ingredient
- A 200g tub of whipped dairy spread with added salt and flavorings
- 500g of a dairy blend spread marketed for use on bagels
- A 1kg bulk container of dairy spread used in commercial kitchens
- 250g of a sweetened butter spread with honey and cinnamon
- A 300g tub of dairy spread labeled as 'light' with reduced fat content
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify a dairy spread?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is my butter spread under HS 040510 or 040520?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS 040520?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I use HS code 040520 for flavored butter?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for dairy spreads?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to import dairy spreads with HS code 040520?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the customs duties for dairy products?
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 determine if my product is a dairy spread
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
classification of flavored butter spreads under HS codes
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
requirements for shipping dairy spreads internationally
Use this as a checklist topic, then confirm legal requirements with your broker or customs advisor.
differences between HS 040510 and 040520 for butter products
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
what ingredients affect HS code classification for dairy spreads
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
best practices for importing dairy products with HS codes
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
how to classify a butter blend for customs purposes
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
guidelines for exporting dairy spreads with different fat contents
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 products are classified under HS-6 040520?
- HS-6 040520 covers dairy spreads made primarily from butter or milk fats, often blended with other ingredients like flavorings or oils.
- How can I tell if my product should use HS-6 040520 or HS-6 040510?
- Use HS-6 040520 if your product is a spread with added ingredients. If it's pure butter without any additions, classify it under HS-6 040510.
- Are there specific packaging requirements for dairy spreads?
- Yes, dairy spreads should be packaged in a way that maintains freshness, typically in tubs or containers that are sealed and labeled correctly.
- What is the typical fat content for products classified under HS-6 040520?
- Dairy spreads usually have a butterfat content of at least 60%, but many are closer to 80% or higher.
- Can I export flavored dairy spreads using HS-6 040520?
- Yes, flavored dairy spreads that meet the criteria for this classification can be exported under HS-6 040520.
- What customs duties apply to dairy spreads under HS-6 040520?
- Customs duties vary by country, so check with your local customs authority for the specific rates applicable to dairy spreads.
- Do I need to provide any special documentation for dairy spreads?
- Yes, documentation may include product specifications, ingredient lists, and compliance with food safety regulations.
- How do I ensure compliance when importing dairy spreads?
- Make sure to check the regulations for dairy products in your destination country, including labeling, ingredient restrictions, and fat content.
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