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© 2026 TariffPeek. Data from UN Comtrade & WCO. Not legal advice.

Home / Section IV / HS 16

HS 16

Chapter

Meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, or insects; preparations thereof

HS Code 16 classifies "Meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, or insects, preparations thereof" under Section IV (Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco). This chapter-level code is used internationally for customs classification, tariff determination, and trade statistics.

Classification Details

HS Code16
DescriptionMeat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, or insects; preparations thereof
LevelChapter (2-digit)
SectionIV — Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco
Chapter16

🇺🇸 US Import Duty

Average Duty Rate4%
Duty Range0-35%
NotesMeat/fish preparations: varies widely
Free Trade AgreementsUSMCA: 0%. KORUS: phased

Rates are approximate and based on MFN (Most Favored Nation) tariffs. Actual rates may vary by specific product classification. Always verify with USITC for official rates.

Classification Guide

When classifying goods under HS 16, ensure the product matches the specific description. As a chapter-level code, this is a broad category. You'll need to narrow down to a 4-digit heading or 6-digit subheading for customs declaration.

Trade Context

Section IV covers prepared foodstuffs, beverages, spirits, and tobacco — processed food products.

Regulatory Note

Highly regulated sector with excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco. Food safety standards (FDA, EU) significantly impact trade.

🇺🇸 US Import Document Checklist

Documents required when importing products under HS 16 into the United States.

Required for All Imports

☑Commercial InvoiceCBP
Detailed invoice from the seller showing product description, quantity, unit price, total value, and terms of sale (Incoterms).
☑Packing ListCBP
Itemized list of contents in each package, including weights, dimensions, and marks/numbers matching the shipping containers.
☑Bill of Lading (B/L) or Airway BillCarrier
Transport document issued by the carrier confirming receipt of goods for shipment. Acts as a contract of carriage and receipt.
☑CBP Entry Summary (Form 7501)CBP
The formal customs declaration filed with US Customs and Border Protection for all commercial imports.
☑Importer Security Filing (ISF/10+2)CBP
Must be filed at least 24 hours before ocean cargo is loaded. Required for all ocean shipments to the US.
☑Customs BondCBP
A financial guarantee ensuring payment of duties, taxes, and fees. Required for commercial shipments over $2,500.

FTA Certificate of Origin (for preferential rates)

🤝USMCA Certificate of Origin — self-certification by importer, exporter, or producer. No prescribed format.
🤝Korea-US FTA Certificate of Origin — can be issued by importer, exporter, or producer.

This checklist is for general guidance only. Actual requirements may vary based on specific product, country of origin, and current regulations. Always consult with a licensed customs broker or the relevant agency for official requirements.

Sub-Classifications

16.01Sausages and similar products, of meat, meat offal, blood or insects; food preparations based on these productsHeading16.02Prepared or preserved meat, meat offal, blood or insectsHeading16.03Extracts and juices of meat, fish or crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebratesHeading16.04Prepared or preserved fish; caviar and caviar substitutes prepared from fish eggsHeading16.05Crustaceans, molluscs and other aquatic invertebrates, prepared or preservedHeading

Related HS Codes

16.01Sausages and similar products, of meat, meat offal, blood or1601.00Meat preparations; sausages and similar products, of meat, m16.02Prepared or preserved meat, meat offal, blood or insects1602.10Meat preparations; homogenised preparations of meat, meat of1602.20Meat preparations; of the prepared or preserved liver of any1602.31Meat preparations; of turkeys, prepared or preserved meat or1602.32Meat preparations; of the poultry of heading no. 0105, (i.e.1602.39Meat preparations; of poultry (excluding turkeys), prepared

Related Data Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS Code 16?
HS Code 16 classifies "Meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, or insects, preparations thereof" under Section IV (Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco). This chapter-level code is used internationally for customs classification, tariff determination, and trade statistics.
What products fall under HS 16?
HS Code 16 covers: Meat, fish, crustaceans, molluscs or other aquatic invertebrates, or insects, preparations thereof. This is a broad category that includes more specific subcategories. Browse the child codes below for detailed product classifications.
How do I use HS Code 16 for customs?
When classifying goods under HS 16, ensure the product matches the specific description. As a chapter-level code, this is a broad category. You'll need to narrow down to a 4-digit heading or 6-digit subheading for customs declaration.
What are the trade regulations for Prepared Foodstuffs; Beverages, Spirits, Tobacco?
Highly regulated sector with excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco. Food safety standards (FDA, EU) significantly impact trade.
Is HS 16 the same in every country?
The first 6 digits of HS codes are standardized worldwide by the World Customs Organization (WCO). However, most countries add additional digits (8-10 total) for their national tariff schedules. Always verify the full code with your destination country's customs authority.
What is the US import duty for HS 16?
The average US import duty for products under HS 16 is approximately 4% (range: 0-35%). USMCA: 0%. KORUS: phased Note: actual rates depend on the specific product classification and country of origin. Verify with USITC for official rates.
Can I get a lower tariff rate under a Free Trade Agreement?
USMCA: 0%. KORUS: phased. The US has FTAs with 20 countries including Canada, Mexico (USMCA), South Korea (KORUS), Australia, and others. To qualify for preferential rates, goods must meet rules of origin requirements and have proper documentation (e.g., Certificate of Origin).

Data verified March 2026 · Source: UN Comtrade & USITC

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