An importer often asks for two things before the price: the HS code and the scientific name. To a newcomer they look technical, but without them a shipment struggles through customs and is easily misunderstood.
What an HS code is
The HS code is the shared international goods classification. The first six digits are the same in most countries, which may add more digits after them. Fresh, live and frozen seafood sits in chapter 03; prepared seafood sits in chapter 16.
- For example, crabs that are live, fresh or chilled fall under 0306.33; frozen crabs under 0306.14.
- The HS code determines import duty, quarantine procedures and the documents required in the importing country.
Why the scientific name matters
Trade names vary by region and language. Both are mud crabs, yet Scylla paramamosain and Scylla serrata are different species. The scientific name pins down one species, and many countries require it on labels or documents.
In Vina Seafood’s product files
Every export product on the Vina Seafood site lists its trade name, scientific name, FAO code and a reference HS code. The official HS code for each shipment is confirmed on the shipping documents.
