HTS US: 1201.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading covers soybeans in all forms, whether they are intact or broken. The classification includes various types based on their use or certification status. Soybeans are a major agricultural commodity used primarily for oil extraction, animal feed, and food products. The heading distinguishes between seeds intended for planting and other soybeans, including those certified as organic and those specifically used as oil stock.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II: Vegetable Products (Chapters 06-14)
- Chapter 12: Oil Seeds and Oleaginous Fruits; Miscellaneous Grains, Seeds and Fruit; Industrial or Medicinal Plants; Straw and Fodder
- Heading 1201: Soybeans, whether or not broken.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
1201.XX.XXXX– The final digits specify the exact seed type or classification.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 1201 is further broken down into 6-digit and 10-digit codes that specify the exact type of soybeans, including seeds and other varieties used for different purposes.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1201.10.00.00 | Seed | Whole soybeans intended for planting or seed use. This classification is primarily for agricultural seed sales. |
| 1201.90.00 | Other | Includes soybeans not classified as seed, often for processing or food use. |
1201.90.00.05 |
Seeds of a kind used as oil stock | Soybeans specifically designated for oil extraction purposes, used in industrial and food oil production. |
1201.90.00.10 |
Certified organic | Soybeans grown under certified organic agricultural practices, meeting USDA organic standards. |
1201.90.00.90 |
Other | Any other soybeans not covered by the above subcategories, often including non-organic soybeans for general use. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Processed soybean products such as soybean oil, meal, or protein concentrates are classified under different headings (e.g., 1507 for soybean oil, 2304 for soybean meal).
- Other legumes or pulses are classified in different chapters (e.g., lentils, peas).
- Soy-based food preparations like tofu or soy flour fall outside this heading.
Notes
- USDA Organic Certification: Certified organic soybeans must comply with USDA organic standards and are typically subject to inspection and verification.
- Use of Seeds: Seeds classified under 1201.10 are primarily intended for planting, and import/export may require phytosanitary certificates.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary by subheading and country of origin; soybeans used as oil stock may have different tariff treatments.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of certified organic soybeans intended for oil extraction.US HTS Code:
1201.90.00.10(Certified organic soybeans)Unit of Quantity: Metric Ton
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS tariff schedule (often duty-free or low duty for organic products)
Additional Requirements: USDA organic certification documentation and phytosanitary certificates may be required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 1202: Groundnuts, not roasted or otherwise cooked.
- HTS 1507: Soybean oil and its fractions.
- HTS 2304: Soybean meal, whether or not solvent-extracted.
- HTS 0713: Dried leguminous vegetables, shelled, whether or not skinned or split.
