Live Cape Lobster (Homarus capensis)
Live Homarus capensis from South African waters, a lesser-known Homarus species, valued for its firm texture in gourmet seafood. HTS 0306.32.0010 applies strictly to live Homarus spp. lobsters, distinguishing them from rock lobsters.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If actually Jasus lalandii rock lobster from same region
Cape rock lobsters are Jasus spp., classifying under 0306.17, not Homarus, based on taxonomy.
If held chilled during transit
Chilling changes the state from live to chilled, moving to the next subheading in the hierarchy.
If for aquarium or research display purposes
Live aquatic invertebrates for ornamental or research use may fall under heading 0106 as other live animals.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Comply with South African export regulations and US fish import inspection; test for heavy metals common in regional waters
• Ship in insulated, oxygenated containers; report any mortality upon arrival to CBP within 24 hours
• Differentiate from Jasus lalandii (Cape rock lobster) via species documentation to avoid reclassification
Related Products under HTS 0306.32.00.10
Live American Lobster (Homarus americanus)
Live Homarus americanus lobsters, commonly known as American or Maine lobsters, are caught in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and shipped alive to maintain freshness. They fall under HTS 0306.32.0010 as live lobsters of the Homarus spp., specifically in their live state without any preservation processing.
Live European Lobster (Homarus gammarus)
Live Homarus gammarus, the European lobster native to the Atlantic coasts of Europe, is imported alive for high-end restaurants and markets. Classified under HTS 0306.32.0010 due to its species within Homarus spp. and live condition, ensuring premium quality.
Live Spiny Lobster (Misidentified as Homarus)
Certain spiny lobsters occasionally misclassified but confirmed as Homarus spp. via documentation; typically, spiny are Palinurus but rare Homarus-like traits qualify here. HTS 0306.32.0010 covers only true Homarus lobsters in live form.
Live Homarus Lobster Breeding Stock
Live Homarus spp. lobsters specifically imported for aquaculture breeding programs, selected for genetic quality. Still classified under HTS 0306.32.0010 as live Homarus lobsters, not under cultivated live due to wild capture origin.