Oat Groats
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1904201000 | 23.1% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 1904209000 | 32.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2106909998 | 16.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 2106909995 | 16.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
AI Analysis
π₯£ Oat Groats (Unprocessed Oat Kernels)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Strategy for Oat Products
π 1. Product Definition: What Exactly Are "Oat Groats"?
Oat Groats are the whole oat kernel with the indigestible hull removed, but still retaining the bran and germ. They are distinct from rolled oats, steel-cut oats, or instant oatmeal because they undergo minimal processingβonly hulled. However, in international trade, products like "Oat Cups" (pre-cooked, shaped, or ready-to-eat oat forms) are often classified differently depending on their processing level and formulation.
β οΈ Key Distinction for Classification:
- Raw/Hulled Oats (Basic Grain): Minimal processing β Likely 1904.20.xxxx (Cereal preparations).
- Processed/Pre-cooked Shaped Oats (e.g., Oat Cups): Cooked, shaped, or mixed with other ingredients β Likely 2106.90.xxxx (Food preparations not elsewhere specified).
π¦ 2. HS Code Classification Details (Based on Provided Data)
The following HS codes are derived from the provided data for "Oat Cups" (processed oat products), which may apply to your "Oat Groats" if they are pre-cooked or formulated.
| HS Code | Product Description | Applicability Scenario | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
1904.20.10.00 |
Oat-based cereal preparation (Pre-cooked or treated) | Oat cups that are pre-cooked or treated, fitting the definition of "treated cereal products" | 23.1% |
1904.20.90.00 |
Other cereal preparations (Oat-based, non-corn, non-flour) | Oat cups in cup-shaped ready-to-eat form, consistent with processed cereal flakes/segments | 32.4% |
2106.90.99.98 |
Other food preparations (Oat-based food mix) | Oat cups classified as "food preparations" with no material conflict, general category | 16.4% |
2106.90.99.95 |
Other food preparations (Oat as main ingredient, pre-packaged) | Oat cups where oat is the main component, ready-to-eat or pre-packaged, under "other food preparations" | 16.4% |
π Important Note:
-1904.xxxxis for cereal preparations (oats as the primary grain, processed).
-2106.xxxxis for food preparations (general food mixes, often with added ingredients or specific forms).
- Selection depends on: Processing method (raw vs. pre-cooked), ingredient composition, and final form.
π° 3. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Additional Duties)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: November 10, 2025 (and subsequent imports)
π― 1. 1904.20.10.00 β Oat-based Cereal Preparation (Pre-cooked/Treated)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 5.6% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301) | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 23.1% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 23.1% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable (High duty rate prevents exemption) |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 5.6% β Section 301: 7.5% β Section 122: 10% β Total: 23.1% |
π Explanation:
- This code applies if the oat product is pre-cooked or treated and fits the definition of a "cereal preparation."
- The 23.1% total includes base duty, Section 301 additional duty, and Section 122 duty.
π― 2. 1904.20.90.00 β Other Cereal Preparations (Oat-based, Non-Corn/Flour)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 14.9% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301) | 7.5% |
| Section 122 Duty | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 32.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 32.4% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 14.9% β Section 301: 7.5% β Section 122: 10% β Total: 32.4% |
π Note:
- This code applies if the oat product is not pre-cooked but is still a processed cereal form (e.g., shaped cups).
- Higher base tariff (14.9%) results in a 32.4% total rate, significantly higher than1904.20.10.00.
π― 3. 2106.90.99.98 β Other Food Preparations (General)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.4% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Duty | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 16.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 16.4% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6.4% β Section 122: 10% β Total: 16.4% |
π Explanation:
- This code applies if the product is classified as a general food preparation (not strictly a "cereal preparation").
- Lower total rate (16.4%) due to 0% Section 301 duty, making it potentially more cost-effective if applicable.
π― 4. 2106.90.99.95 β Other Food Preparations (Oat as Main Ingredient)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Tariff | 6.4% |
| Additional Duty (Section 301) | 0.0% |
| Section 122 Duty | 10% |
| Total Tax Rate | 16.4% |
| Tax Calculation | CIF Value Γ 16.4% |
| De Minimis Exemption | β Not Applicable |
| Legal Basis Path | Base: 6.4% β Section 122: 10% β Total: 16.4% |
π Note:
- Similar to2106.90.99.98, but specifies oat as the main ingredient.
- Also offers the lower 16.4% total rate.
π οΈ 4. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Avoid Pitfalls)
β 1. Required Documentation Checklist
| Document | Mandatory | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| β Product Specification Sheet | βοΈ | Must detail ingredients, processing method (raw vs. pre-cooked), and form (groats vs. cups). |
| β Product Photos | βοΈ | Clear images of the product, packaging, and any labels indicating "Pre-cooked" or "Ready-to-eat." |
| β Commercial Invoice | βοΈ | Must clearly state "Oat Groats" or "Oat Cups" and describe the product accurately. |
| β Certificate of Origin (CO) | βοΈ | Required for tariff calculation; if from China, subject to additional duties. |
| β Packing List | βοΈ | Detail contents, weight, and dimensions. |
| β Third-party Test Report | βοΈ | If claimed as "Organic" or "Non-GMO," provide certification. |
β 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonics)
π₯ "Process Matters, Code Changes, Tax Varies!"
| Scenario | Correct HS Code | Incorrect Code | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-cooked Oat Cups | 1904.20.10.00 or 2106.90.99.98/95 |
1904.20.90.00 |
Overpaying 9% (23.1% vs 32.4%) |
| Raw Hulled Oats (Not Pre-cooked) | 1904.20.90.00 |
2106.90.xxxx |
Potential misclassification, audit risk |
| Oat Cups with Added Ingredients | 2106.90.99.98/95 |
1904.20.xxxx |
If classified as "cereal prep" when it's a "food prep," you might pay more or less depending on interpretation |
| General Food Mix | 2106.90.99.98/95 |
1904.20.xxxx |
Lower tax (16.4% vs 23.1% or 32.4%) if applicable |
π Key Advice:
- Clarify Processing: Is the product raw hulled oats or pre-cooked shaped cups? This is the primary determinant.
- Ingredient List: If oats are the main ingredient, consider2106.90.99.95for potential lower tax.
- Pre-cooked Status: If pre-cooked,1904.20.10.00is a strong candidate, but2106.90.99.98may offer savings.
β 3. Special Cases
| Scenario | Handling Advice |
|---|---|
| OEM Private Label | Provide customer order + design specs to avoid "generic" classification issues. |
| Oat Cups with Additives | Ensure ingredients are listed accurately; may shift classification to 2106.xxxx. |
| Bulk vs. Retail Packaging | Bulk may be classified differently than retail-ready cups; declare accurately. |
| Organic Claims | Provide organic certification; may affect eligibility for certain trade programs. |
π 5. Global Market Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)
| Country/Region | Recommended HS Code | Tariff | Certification Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 2106.90.99.98 (if applicable) |
16.4% (CN) | FDA Registration + Labeling Compliance | 1904.20.10.00 is 23.1%; 1904.20.90.00 is 32.4% |
| π¨π³ China | 1904.20.xxxx |
5-10% | CCC (if applicable) | Lower base duties |
| πͺπΊ EU | 1904.20.xxxx |
0-6.5% | CE Marking + Food Safety Standards | No Section 301/122 duties |
| π¬π§ UK | 1904.20.xxxx |
0-5% | UKCA Marking | Post-Brexit rules apply |
| π¦πΊ Australia | 1904.20.xxxx |
5% | FSANZ Compliance | No additional duties |
π Conclusion:
- USA has high additional duties (Section 301 + Section 122), making2106.90.99.98/95(16.4%) the most cost-effective if applicable.
- Other markets (EU, UK, AU) have lower or no additional duties, making classification less critical for cost savings.
π 6. Common Mistakes & Pitfalls (Lessons Learned)
β Mistake 1: Declaring "Oat Cups" as "Raw Oats"
π Consequence: Misclassification, potential penalties, and incorrect tax calculation.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Pre-cooked Status
π Consequence: If pre-cooked, using 1904.20.90.00 (32.4%) instead of 1904.20.10.00 (23.1%) or 2106.90.99.98 (16.4%) leads to overpayment.
β Mistake 3: Not Providing Ingredient Details
π Consequence: Customs may reclassify the product, leading to delays and additional duties.
β Mistake 4: Assuming All Oat Products Are 1904.xxxx
π Consequence: If the product is a "food preparation" (e.g., with added ingredients or specific forms), 2106.xxxx may be more appropriate and cheaper.
β Correct Approach:
"Oat Cups, Pre-cooked, Ready-to-eat, Main Ingredient: Oat, Model XYZ, FDA Compliant"
π― 7. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Cost Savings, Efficiency!
π― Remember These Tips:
πΉ "Process Determines Code, Code Determines Tax!"
πΉ "Pre-cooked? Check1904.20.10.00or2106.90.99.98!"
πΉ "Raw Oats? Use1904.20.90.00but expect higher tax!"
πΉ "16.4% vs 32.4%: A 16% Difference Matters!"
π Pro Tip:
If your oat product is shipped from Vietnam, Mexico, Thailand, or Malaysia, you may qualify for IEEPA Exemptions, reducing tariffs to 0-5%.
Recommendation: Apply for a Pre-Ruling (Advance Ruling) to confirm the correct HS code and avoid clearance risks.
π£ Immediate Action:
π Contact a Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Images + Apply for HS Code Pre-Ruling
π Ensure Smooth Clearance, Efficient Shipping, and Maximized Profits!
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
πΌ Every Cents Saved is a Cents Earned!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.