What is HS code 040690 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
040690
Dairy produce; cheese (not grated, powdered or processed), n.e.c. in heading no. 0406
Heading 0406 — Cheese and curd
Chapter 04: Dairy produce; birds' eggs; natural honey
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 040690 when importing or exporting unprocessed cheese and other dairy products not specified elsewhere. For example, this code applies to a shipment of fresh mozzarella cheese packed in vacuum-sealed bags.
This code specifically covers cheese and curd that are not grated, powdered, or otherwise processed. It’s important to distinguish it from HS-6 040610, which refers to fresh cheese, including cream cheese, that is not aged.
If you are dealing with cheese that has been aged or processed in any way, such as shredded cheddar or blue cheese, you would need to look at different HS codes like HS-6 040630. Make sure to classify correctly to avoid customs delays.
When classifying your dairy products, consider the packaging and intended use. For instance, cheese sold in blocks for slicing versus cheese prepared for cooking may have different classifications.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
unprocessed cheese · fresh mozzarella · ricotta cheese · dairy products · cheese classification · import cheese · export dairy · curd products · non-processed cheese · bulk cheese shipments · cheese packaging · customs cheese codes · cheese for cooking · dairy trade regulations
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese in vacuum packs
- Ricotta cheese in plastic containers
- Feta cheese in brine solution
- Cottage cheese in bulk packaging
- Cream cheese sold in tubs
- Unprocessed goat cheese in logs
- Queso blanco cheese in sealed bags
- Paneer cheese for culinary use
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify unprocessed cheese?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is mozzarella covered under HS-6 040690?
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What dairy products fall under HS-6 040690?
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Differences between HS-6 040690 and 040610?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I import ricotta cheese with HS-6 040690?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the packaging requirements for cheese imports?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to avoid customs issues with 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.
What types of cheese can I classify under HS-6 040690?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to determine if cheese is processed or unprocessed?
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Examples of products classified under HS-6 040690
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What are the customs regulations for importing cheese?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between fresh and aged cheese classifications
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
How to properly package cheese for export?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What documentation is needed for dairy product imports?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Guidelines for shipping unprocessed cheese internationally
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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-6 040690?
- HS-6 040690 includes unprocessed cheeses like fresh mozzarella, ricotta, and feta that are not grated or powdered.
- Can I use HS-6 040690 for aged cheese?
- No, aged cheese should be classified under different HS codes, such as HS-6 040630.
- What packaging is required for cheese under this code?
- Cheese should be vacuum-sealed or packaged to prevent spoilage during transport.
- Is there a specific temperature requirement for shipping cheese?
- Yes, cheese should be kept refrigerated during transport to maintain quality and comply with health regulations.
- How can I ensure my cheese classification is correct?
- Review the product specifications and compare them with the HS code descriptions to ensure proper classification.
- What are the customs duties for importing cheese under HS-6 040690?
- Customs duties vary by country; check with your local customs authority for specific rates applicable to dairy imports.
- Can I import cheese from any country using HS-6 040690?
- Import regulations vary by country; ensure compliance with both exporting and importing country regulations.
- What should I do if my cheese shipment is delayed at customs?
- Contact your customs broker for assistance and ensure all documentation is complete and accurate.
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