Bulk Frozen Butterfish for Processing
Bulk-packed frozen whole butterfish in 40 lb master cartons, for further industrial processing into surimi or fillets. HTS 0303.89.0055 applies to this frozen other fish excluding 0304 meat and 0309 pellets. Not fit for direct human consumption as meal.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If destined for canning industry as fillets
Livers and roes excluded, but whole fish for canning may shift if pre-processed; primarily 0305 for fillets.
If agglomerated into pellets
Chapter notes define pellets separately; agglomerated butterfish products go to 0309 if human consumption fit.
If containing edible liver or roe
Subheadings 0303.91+ exclude offal-free pure butterfish from the 0303.89 basket.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain advance CBP ruling for 'further processing' intent to secure 0303 classification over parts
• Use ISF-10+2 filings early due to bulk seafood container volumes and vessel stowage plans
• Test for heavy metals common in butterfish; include CoA in documentation to preempt FDA holds
Related Products under HTS 0303.89.00.55
Frozen Pacific Butterfish Whole
Whole frozen Pacific butterfish (Peprilus simillimus), excluding fillets and other fish meat, packed in bulk for commercial use. This product falls under HTS 0303.89.0055 as frozen butterfish, a specific type of other fish not classified elsewhere in heading 0303. It is not processed into fillets or offal.
Frozen Japanese Butterfish Fillets
Frozen butterfish fillets from Japanese gurnard (Steindachneria argus), headless and gutted but retaining skeletal structure, not further processed into meat. Classified under HTS 0303.89.0055 as frozen butterfish excluding true fillets of 0304. Primarily used in Asian cuisine.
IQF Frozen Butterfish Portions
Individually quick frozen (IQF) butterfish portions, skin-on and bone-in, cut from whole fish but not filleted. This frozen product is specifically butterfish under HTS 0303.89.0055, destined for restaurant supply. Excludes fish fillets of heading 0304.
Frozen Whole Escolar Butterfish
Frozen whole escolar (Lepidocybium flavobrunneum), marketed as butterfish, cleaned but intact. Falls under HTS 0303.89.0055 for other frozen fish specifically butterfish, excluding fillets. Popular in sushi preparations despite mercury content warnings.