What is HS code 040640?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
040640
Dairy produce; cheese, blue-veined and other cheese containing veins produced by Penicillium roqueforti (not grated, powdered or processed)
Heading 0406 — Cheese and curd
Chapter 04: Dairy produce; birds' eggs; natural honey
Plain-language overview
The 04 chapter covers a wide range of dairy products, including cheese, curd, and other edible animal products. This chapter is essential for importers and exporters dealing with various forms of dairy, highlighting the importance of proper classification.
Under the 0406 heading, the focus narrows to cheese and curd, which are staple items in many diets worldwide. This heading encompasses various types of cheese, allowing for a more detailed classification of dairy products.
The 040640 subheading specifically refers to blue-veined cheese, including varieties that contain veins produced by the mold *Penicillium roqueforti*. This type of cheese is known for its distinct flavor and appearance, making it a popular choice among consumers.
When classifying products under this HS code, it's important to note that it excludes grated, powdered, or processed forms of blue cheese. This distinction helps ensure accurate duty assessments and compliance with import regulations.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
blue cheese classification · import blue cheese · export blue cheese · 040640 HS code · cheese import regulations · customs blue cheese · dairy product classification · blue-veined cheese · cheese types · Penicillium roqueforti cheese · cheese and curd · food import compliance · dairy produce · cheese duties · artisan cheese · gourmet cheese
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Importing Roquefort cheese from France
- Exporting Gorgonzola cheese to the United States
- Shipping Stilton cheese to a gourmet retailer
- Distributing blue cheese dressing containing blue-veined cheese
- Selling artisanal blue cheese at a local farmers' market
- Classifying imported blue cheese for customs clearance
- Handling returns of blue cheese due to spoilage during transport
- Retailing specialty cheeses that include blue-veined varieties
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How do I classify blue cheese for import?
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What types of cheese fall under HS code 040640?
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Are there specific regulations for importing blue cheese?
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What is the difference between blue cheese and processed cheese?
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How do I ensure compliance when importing dairy products?
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What are the customs duties for blue-veined cheese?
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Can I export blue cheese without special permits?
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Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
how to classify blue cheese for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
importing blue-veined cheese from Europe
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
export regulations for blue cheese
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
understanding HS code 040640
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
requirements for importing dairy products
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
duty rates for blue cheese imports
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
what is considered blue-veined cheese
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
guidelines for shipping cheese internationally
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 cheese are included in HS code 040640?
- HS code 040640 includes blue-veined cheeses such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton, which contain veins produced by *Penicillium roqueforti*.
- Are processed forms of blue cheese covered under this code?
- No, HS code 040640 specifically excludes grated, powdered, or processed forms of blue cheese.
- What are the import regulations for blue cheese?
- Import regulations for blue cheese vary by country, but typically include health certifications and compliance with food safety standards.
- How can I ensure my blue cheese shipment clears customs?
- To ensure clearance, provide accurate documentation, including the correct HS code, and comply with all import regulations specific to dairy products.
- What is the duty rate for importing blue cheese?
- Duty rates for blue cheese can vary based on the country of origin and destination, so it's important to check the specific tariff schedule.
- Can I export blue cheese without special permits?
- Exporting blue cheese may require permits depending on the destination country, so it's essential to verify the regulations beforehand.
- What should I do if my blue cheese shipment spoils during transport?
- If spoilage occurs, document the condition of the shipment and consult with your customs broker to understand the next steps for returns or claims.
- How do I classify mixed cheese products that contain blue cheese?
- Mixed cheese products containing blue cheese should be classified based on the predominant ingredient, but may also require a separate classification for the blue cheese component.
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