Vernier Alfalfa Seed
Vernier alfalfa seed is a high-quality variety of Medicago sativa seeds specifically bred for superior forage yield and disease resistance, intended exclusively for sowing in agricultural fields. It falls under HTS 1209.21.0040 as 'other' alfalfa (lucerne) seeds of a kind used for sowing, distinct from common varieties. These seeds are untreated and packaged for planting to produce livestock feed crops.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If not specifically for sowing, e.g., for oil extraction or bird feed
Seeds not intended for planting fall under 1209.91 as other alfalfa seeds, excluding those expressly for sowing per Chapter 12 notes.
If classified as clover or other forage seeds instead of alfalfa
Misidentification of botanical species could place it under 1209.29 for other forage plant seeds used for sowing.
If processed into bran, sharps, or pellets for animal feed
Once ground or pelletized, alfalfa seeds become bran or sharps of leguminous plants under Chapter 23, not raw seeds.
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
• Obtain a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country confirming the seeds are free from pests like Verticillium wilt and viable for sowing
• Label packages clearly with varietal name, purity percentage (e.g
• 99%), and germination rate to meet USDA seed import standards
• Avoid common pitfalls like misclassifying treated seeds as untreated; dormant or coated seeds may shift to pesticide headings
Related Products under HTS 1209.21.00.40
WL 525 Alfalfa Seed
WL 525 is a patented alfalfa seed variety developed for high digestibility and persistence in pasture systems, used solely for sowing to establish lucerne forage crops. Classified under HTS 1209.21.0040 as 'other' alfalfa seeds for sowing, it meets forage plant seed criteria in heading 1209. These coated seeds ensure uniform planting and protection during germination.
Bullet Alfalfa Seed
Bullet alfalfa seed is a dormant, cold-tolerant variety of lucerne seeds designed for sowing in northern climates to produce resilient forage for dairy cattle. It is categorized under HTS 1209.21.0040 as other alfalfa seeds used for sowing, emphasizing its forage plant application. These seeds feature enhanced winter hardiness for reliable stand establishment.
America Alfalfa Seed
America alfalfa seed is a multi-crown variety optimized for high tonnage yields in irrigated fields, strictly for sowing to grow lucerne hay crops. Under HTS 1209.21.0040, it qualifies as other alfalfa (lucerne) seeds for forage planting. This variety excels in protein-rich forage production for livestock.
Saranac Alfalfa Seed
Saranac alfalfa seed offers disease resistance to bacterial wilt, making it ideal for sowing in long-term pasture rotations for sheep and horse forage. It is imported under HTS 1209.21.0040 as other lucerne seeds designated for sowing. Certified purity ensures optimal field performance.
Trapper Alfalfa Seed
Trapper alfalfa seed is a fine-stemmed variety for superior hay quality, used for sowing in alfalfa monocultures for beef cattle feed. HTS 1209.21.0040 covers this as other alfalfa seeds for forage planting purposes. Its non-dormant trait suits multiple cuttings per season.