Frozen Whole Cobia Fish
Whole frozen cobia (Rachycentron canadum) fish, ungutted and unprocessed beyond freezing, typically weighing 5-10 kg per fish. This product falls under HTS 0303.56.00.00 as it is specifically classified as frozen cobia, excluding fillets or other fish meat of heading 0304. It is imported for further processing or direct sale in seafood markets.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If imported in fresh or chilled state
Fresh or chilled cobia falls under heading 0302, as chapter notes distinguish frozen from non-frozen fish.
If processed into fillets or other fish meat
Fish fillets and other fish meat of heading 0304 exclude whole fish, changing classification for processed forms.
If ground into flour, meal, or pellets fit for human consumption
Headings 0305-0308 exclude flours, meals, and pellets suitable for human consumption, directed to 0309.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Verify species identification with scientific name (Rachycentron canadum) via FDA prior notice and ensure proper labeling to avoid misclassification
• Comply with section 609 of Public Law 101-162 if any shrimp contamination is possible, though primarily for shrimp products
• Maintain cold chain documentation showing temperature below -18°C to prevent reclassification as fresh or spoiled goods
Related Products under HTS 0303.56.00.00
Frozen Gutted Cobia
Frozen cobia fish with entrails removed but head, tail, and fins intact, preserved by freezing for extended shelf life. Classified under HTS 0303.56.00.00 as frozen whole or nearly whole cobia, not qualifying as fillets or processed meat. Popular in Asian markets for grilling or steaming.
Frozen Cobia Steaks
Cobia fish cut into thick cross-section steaks, frozen individually or in blocks, retaining bone and skin. This remains under HTS 0303.56.00.00 as it is not filleted meat of heading 0304, but large pieces of whole fish. Used in restaurants for searing or blackening.
IQF Frozen Cobia Portions
Individually quick frozen (IQF) cobia portions, skin-on and bone-in, portioned for retail packaging. Falls under HTS 0303.56.00.00 as frozen cobia not processed into fillets or meat of 0304. Ideal for home cooks seeking premium white fish.
Frozen Head-Off Cobia
Frozen cobia with heads removed, but body intact with tail and fins, common for reducing shipping weight. Classified precisely under HTS 0303.56.00.00 for frozen cobia excluding fillets. High demand in sushi-grade applications after thawing.
Block Frozen Cobia for Processing
Whole cobia frozen in large blocks for industrial portioning and further processing into fillets. HTS 0303.56.00.00 applies as frozen cobia, distinct from processed meat in 0304. Bulk imported for US fish stick production.
Frozen Cobia Loin Cuts
Premium frozen cobia loins, backstraps cut from the fish with skin on, bone-in. Remains under HTS 0303.56.00.00 as not filleted per heading 0304 exclusions. Prized for buttery texture in gourmet cuisine.