HTS US: 0707.XX.XXXX
Description
This heading covers fresh or chilled cucumbers and gherkins, which are edible fruits from the Cucurbitaceae family. The products classified here include:
- Fresh cucumbers: Whole cucumbers harvested and kept unprocessed, typically cooled but not frozen.
- Chilled cucumbers: Cucumbers kept at low temperatures just above freezing to preserve freshness during transport and storage.
- Fresh gherkins: Small varieties of cucumbers, often used for pickling, sold fresh or chilled.
These products are usually intended for direct consumption or further processing (e.g., pickling) but have not undergone any preservation like freezing or drying.
Code Hierarchy
- Section II:
- Vegetable Products (Chapters 06-14)
- Chapter 07: Edible Vegetables and Certain Roots and Tubers
- Heading 0707: Cucumbers and gherkins, fresh or chilled.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
0707.XX.XXXX– The last digits specify the exact type and presentation.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
The 4-digit HS heading 0707 is subdivided into 6-digit and 10-digit codes to identify specific types and forms of cucumbers and gherkins.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0707.10 | Gherkins, fresh or chilled | Includes small pickling cucumbers typically sold fresh or chilled. |
0707.10.0000 |
Fresh or chilled gherkins, whole | |
| 0707.20 | Cucumbers and other cucumis, fresh or chilled | Regular cucumbers and other similar cucumis fruits, fresh or chilled. |
0707.20.1000 |
Fresh or chilled cucumbers, whole | |
0707.20.5000 |
Other cucumis fruits fresh or chilled (excluding gherkins) |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note these exclusions:
- Pickled or preserved cucumbers and gherkins
- (e.g., pickles in vinegar) are classified under Chapter 20 (2001.90).
- Dried cucumbers or related products are classified under Chapter 7 but different headings (e.g., 0709) if applicable.
- Other fresh vegetables such as melons or squashes are under different headings within Chapter 07.
Notes
- USDA Regulations:
- Fresh or chilled cucumbers and gherkins imported into the United States must comply with USDA and FDA regulations regarding pest control, phytosanitary certificates, and food safety.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary depending on the specific 10-digit HTS subheading and country of origin. Many fresh vegetables are duty-free or subject to low ad valorem duties under various trade agreements.
- Packaging and Labeling: Proper packaging to maintain freshness and accurate labeling of origin and type are required for import clearance.
Declaration Example
Product:
A shipment of fresh whole cucumbers from Mexico.
US HTS Code:
0707.20.1000(Fresh or chilled cucumbers, whole)Unit of Quantity: Kilogram (kg)
General Duty Rate: Consult current USHTS (often duty-free under USMCA)
Additional Requirements: USDA phytosanitary certificate and FDA import requirements.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 0706:
- Carrots, turnips, salad beetroot, salsify, celeriac, radishes, and similar edible roots.
- HTS 0709: Other vegetables, fresh or chilled (e.g., spinach, lettuce).
- HTS 2001.90: Vegetables prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid (includes pickled cucumbers).
- HTS 0703: Onions, shallots, garlic, leeks and other alliaceous vegetables, fresh or chilled.
