Food & Drink HS Codes

What HS code is chocolate? (Chapter 18 explained)

How to classify chocolate for UK customs, and what changes the code.

Most chocolate is classified in HS heading 1806 ("chocolate and other food preparations containing cocoa"); the exact subheading depends on whether it is filled, in blocks/bars, and its cocoa and sugar content.

Where it sits in the tariff

Chocolate is generally classified in Chapter 18 — cocoa and cocoa preparations. The exact 8–10 digit commodity code depends on the detail below — so always confirm against the actual product.

What changes the code

  • Is it filled or solid? Filled bars sit under 1806.31; unfilled blocks/bars under 1806.32.
  • Cocoa and sugar content can change the subheading and the duty.
  • White chocolate contains no cocoa solids and is often treated differently (cocoa butter only).
  • Cocoa powder (sweetened or not) sits in 1806.10; raw cocoa is Chapter 18 earlier headings.

Typical Chocolate HS codes

ProductTypical HS headingIndicative UK duty
Dark chocolate bar, filled1806 318% (UKGT)
Plain chocolate block/bar, unfilled1806 328% (UKGT)
Chocolate spread / preparation1806 906–8%
Sweetened cocoa powder (drinking)1806 108%

Headings and duty rates are indicative only and change — always confirm the full 10-digit commodity code and current rate in the UK Trade Tariff or with TTVerified.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

A filled chocolate bar is typically 1806 31 and an unfilled bar 1806 32, both within Chapter 18. Always confirm against composition.

It can affect the subheading and duty within Chapter 18, which is why composition by weight matters.