What is HS code 090961 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
090961
Spices; seeds of anise, badian, caraway or fennel; juniper berries, neither crushed nor ground
Heading 0909 — Seeds of anise, badian, fennel, coriander, cumin, caraway or juniper
Chapter 09: Coffee, tea, mate and spices
Plain-language overview
Use HS-6 090961 when importing or exporting uncrushed seeds of spices such as anise or fennel. For example, if you're shipping 50 kg of whole anise seeds in bulk bags for a food manufacturer, this is the correct code.
This code specifically covers seeds of anise, badian, caraway, or fennel that are neither crushed nor ground. In contrast, HS-6 090960 applies to crushed or ground forms of these seeds, which have different uses in culinary applications.
If you're dealing with juniper berries, you'll also want to look at this code, as it includes them as well, provided they are unprocessed. This is important for importers who might confuse them with other processed spice products.
Understanding the specific classification helps avoid customs delays. For instance, if you mistakenly classify crushed seeds under this code, you could face fines or shipment returns.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
uncrushed anise seeds · whole fennel seeds · caraway seeds · juniper berries · spices HS code · bulk spice shipments · herbal tea ingredients · food manufacturing spices · importing spices · exporting whole seeds · customs classification spices · spice trade regulations · unprocessed spice seeds · anise seed suppliers · fennel seed uses · juniper berry applications
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- 50 kg of whole anise seeds in bulk bags
- 25 kg of fennel seeds for herbal tea production
- 100 kg of unprocessed caraway seeds for baking
- 200 kg of whole badian seeds for spice blends
- 30 kg of juniper berries for gin production
- 10 kg of whole coriander seeds for seasoning
- 5 kg of uncrushed cumin seeds for a spice retailer
- 15 kg of whole caraway seeds for a health food store
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
Can I use 090961 for crushed spices?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for importing anise seeds?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I classify fennel seeds for customs?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Are juniper berries included in HS code 090961?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS code 090961?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to avoid customs issues with spice imports?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What is the difference between crushed and whole spice seeds?
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 uncrushed anise seeds for import
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Requirements for importing whole fennel seeds
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between HS codes for crushed and whole spices
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
What to include in a shipment of caraway seeds
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Customs regulations for juniper berries and spices
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Best practices for exporting unprocessed spice seeds
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
How to avoid fines when importing spices
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Understanding spice classification for customs purposes
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 seeds does HS code 090961 cover?
- HS code 090961 covers uncrushed seeds of anise, badian, caraway, fennel, and juniper berries.
- Can I use HS code 090961 for crushed spices?
- No, HS code 090961 is specifically for uncrushed seeds. Use HS code 090960 for crushed spices.
- What is the typical packaging for shipping anise seeds?
- Anise seeds are commonly shipped in bulk bags or sealed containers, typically weighing 25 to 50 kg.
- Are there any import restrictions for fennel seeds?
- Import restrictions can vary by country, so it's essential to check local regulations before shipping fennel seeds.
- How can I ensure my spice shipment clears customs smoothly?
- Make sure to accurately classify your spices, provide detailed invoices, and comply with any local import regulations.
- What is the difference between HS code 090961 and 090960?
- HS code 090961 is for uncrushed seeds, while 090960 is for crushed or ground seeds.
- What are common uses for juniper berries?
- Juniper berries are often used in gin production, as well as in culinary dishes for flavoring.
- How do I find the right HS code for my spice products?
- Consult the Harmonized System database or work with a customs broker to determine the correct HS code based on your product's characteristics.
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