Iceberg Head Lettuce from China

Iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata) is a crisp, round head lettuce with tightly packed pale green leaves, commonly used in salads and sandwiches. It falls under HTS 0705.11.20.00 when entered fresh or chilled between June 1 and October 31, as head lettuce during the specified seasonal period. This classification applies to imports of whole heads unsuitable for immediate consumption without further preparation.

Duty Rate — China → United States

17.5%

Rate breakdown

9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)

Import Tips

Verify entry date falls between June 1 and October 31 to qualify under this HTS code; otherwise, it shifts to 0705.11.40.00

Provide phytosanitary certificates confirming freedom from pests like lettuce aphid, required for USDA clearance

Avoid common pitfalls like mislabeling as leaf lettuce, which changes classification to 0705.19