Key takeaways

  • Fresh strawberries classify simply under 0810100000, provided they're not preserved or prepared
  • Blueberry species (European vs highbush) each carry distinct tariff codes
  • Adding dressing to a fresh vegetable mix reclassifies it as a prepared product under heading 2005
  • Unconventional products like a cheesecake bomb may fall outside the expected heading entirely

Everyone enjoys a picnic, but do you enjoy classifying picnic products as much as eating them? When it comes to classifying picnic goods it pays to be picky with the detail to determine the correct tariff code. With accurate codes comes compliance with trade regulation and you ensure your shipments arrive promptly at their destination so your picnic foods are as fresh as can be.

Here, we look at a selection of some of the most popular picnic treats, and some more unusual ones, which may cause confusion.

Take a look a more food classifications we unravel on our BBQ blog.

Tariff codes for fresh strawberries

No picnic is complete without a punnet of fresh strawberries and thankfully, classifying fresh strawberries is relatively straightforward. They fall under “Other fruit, fresh – Strawberries” in the tariff book. However, the challenge lies in ensuring the strawberries are indeed classified as fresh and not preserved or prepared, which would alter the tariff code. For fresh strawberries, the tariff code is 0810100000.

Tariff codes for fresh blueberries

For blueberries, the challenge is identifying the exact species. Accurate species identification is crucial since European blueberries, highbush blueberries, and other species each have distinct codes. Misidentification can lead to non-compliance and potential penalties.

blueberries
blueberries

Do you know your European from your highbush? Here’s the tariff codes you need to know.

• 0810403000 – European Blueberry – Of Species Vaccinium myrtillus

• 0810405000 – Highbush Blueberry – Of Species Vaccinium corymbosum

• 0810409000 – Not of Species Vaccinium myrtillus or Vaccinium corymbosum

How to classify mixed fresh salad with vinegarette dressing

Mixed Vegetable Salad

Typically, fresh vegetable mixtures are classified by the predominant vegetable. However, adding vinegarette dressing reclassifies it as a prepared mixture under heading 2005. Taking account of all ingredients and preparation techniques just highlights how important this extra detail is to determine the correct classification.

The tariff code for prepared Mixed Vegetable Salad is 2005995090

Cheesecake bomb anyone?

For that wow factor at a picnic, how about a cheesecake bomb? This can be complex to classify due to its unique composition. Unlike traditional cheesecakes that fall under heading 1905, this product lacks a biscuit base and includes white chocolate. Therefore, it is more accurately described as a dairy-based dessert under heading 1901.

Pre-Made Sangria Carton

And finally drinks at a picnic? How about Sangria.

Sangria classification is intricate due to itswinecontent and additional flavourings. Though it may seem to fit under heading 2204 (wine), the WCO Explanatory Notes and Additional Chapter Notes direct it to heading 2205. This example highlights the importance of thorough regulatory knowledge to navigate classification correctly.

Classifying picnic products involves meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of trade regulations. Thankfully, our TariffTel solution is designed to get into the detail and support you in determining the correct tariff code every time. Tools such as TTVerified are built to get details like this right, every time.

ED

Elizabeth Davies

Head of Customs Compliance & Classification, TariffTel

Elizabeth has more than 15 years’ experience in customs classification, advising UK retailers, manufacturers and food producers on getting commodity codes right and keeping them right. A regular speaker at Food and Drink Federation (FDF) webinars, she leads the team behind TariffTel’s expert-verified classification methodology.

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