Live Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor)
Mealworms are the larval stage of the darkling beetle, widely raised as high-protein feeders for birds, reptiles, and fish. They are available in various sizes and are a staple in the pet supply industry. This HTS code applies to live mealworms as other insects.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If natural honeybees
Honeybees are specifically classified separately from other insects.
If dried for human consumption
Dried leguminous vegetables include some prepared insect products if marketed as food.
If personal effects or U.S. goods returned
Chapter 98 covers special provisions like returning U.S. animals.
Not sure which classification is right?
The Tariff Assistant works through the GRI rules on your specific product to reach the right HTS code — and can price the duty on it in the same conversation.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Include lab test results showing absence of pathogens like viruses or bacteria common in beetle larvae
• Ship in breathable media like bran to prevent suffocation and maintain viability
• Check state-level restrictions on importing live insects to avoid quarantines
Related Products under HTS 0106.49.00.90
Live Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
Blaptica dubia, commonly known as Madagascar hissing cockroaches, are wingless tropical insects popular in the pet trade and educational settings. They produce a hissing sound by expelling air through their spiracles, making them unique among insects. Classified under HTS 0106.49.0090 as other live insects, excluding bees, due to their non-apiary nature.
Live Dubia Roaches
Blaptica dubia, or Dubia roaches, are prolific breeders used primarily as feeder insects for reptiles and amphibians. They are flightless, easy to culture, and nutritionally superior to crickets. HTS 0106.49.0090 covers these as other live insects imported for pet food purposes.
Live Crickets (Acheta domesticus)
House crickets (Acheta domesticus) are the most common feeder insect for exotic pets, valued for their chirping and nutritional profile. They are mass-reared for live sale to hobbyists. Classified as other live insects under this residual HTS code.
Live Superworms (Zophobas morio)
Superworms are giant mealworm larvae used as premium feeders for larger reptiles and birds due to their size and meaty texture. They cannot pupate in groups, making them ideal for live sales. HTS 0106.49.0090 for these other live insects.
Live Black Soldier Fly Larvae
Hermetia illucens larvae, known as black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), are sustainable feeders rich in calcium, used in aquaculture and poultry. They self-harvest and are increasingly popular. Other live insects under HTS 0106.49.0090.
Live Silkworm Moths (Bombyx mori) - Non-Larval
Adult silkworm moths imported for breeding or research, distinct from larvae. Used in sericulture education and genetics studies. Falls under other insects as not specifically silkworms (larvae).