🌰 Peeled Walnuts (Shelled Walnuts)

🌐 HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
📌 I. Product Definition & Classification: Do You Know "Peeled Walnuts"?

Peeled walnuts, also known as shelled walnuts or walnut kernels, are the edible inner part of the walnut fruit, with the outer hull and hard shell removed. In international trade, they are classified based on their processing state:

Raw Peeled Walnuts: Not roasted, not cooked, not salted, or otherwise prepared. Processed Peeled Walnuts: Roasted, fried, salted, candied, or otherwise preserved/prepared.

⚠️ Key Distinction Point:
- If simply shelled and peeled (inner skin removed or partially removed) but not heat-processed or seasoned → Classified under 0813.40 (Dried fruit).
- If roasted, fried, salted, or candied → Classified under 2008.19 (Nuts, prepared).

📦 II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Authority Comparison)

🔍 Important Reminder:
- "Raw peeled walnuts" MUST be classified under 0813.40.35.00. They are considered dried fruit, not nuts under Chapter 20.
- "Processed peeled walnuts" (roasted/salted) MUST be classified under 2008.19.05.00. Misclassification as raw can lead to significant tariff differences and penalties.
- If walnuts are partially peeled (e.g., split halves with skin), they still fall under 0813.40.35.00 if raw.

💰 III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Details (Including Additional Taxes & Policy Surcharges)

✅ Applicable Country: United States (US)
✅ Origin: China (CN)
✅ Effective Time: From November 10, 2025 (including subsequent imports)

🎯 1. 0813.40.35.00 —— Dried Walnuts, Shelled (Raw Peeled Walnuts)

📌 Explanation:
- "USITC Surcharge 25%" comes from the Section 301 "Additional Tariffs" under the U.S. Trade Act.
- "IEEPA 10%" is the additional tariff against China under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
- Total 35%, a relatively high tariff, must be anticipated in advance!

🎯 2. 2008.19.05.00 —— Nuts, Prepared: Walnuts (Processed Peeled Walnuts)

📌 Note:
- Both raw and processed peeled walnuts face the same 35% total tariff under current U.S. trade policies.
- Even if "organic," "cold-pressed," or "premium grade," as long as they are from China, the surcharges apply.
- Processing level does not change the tariff rate in this case, but it affects customs classification documentation.

🛠️ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Practical Pitfall Avoidance Guide)

✅ 1. Preparation Checklist (Missing Any One Will Cause Delays)

✅ 2. Declaration Tips (Key Mnemonic)

🔥 "Raw vs. Roasted, Label Clearly, Aflatoxin Test, Pass Quickly!"

✅ 3. Special Situation Handling

🌍 V. Global Major Markets Clearance Comparison (2026 Latest)

📌 Conclusion:
- The US is the most demanding market with high tariffs and strict safety tests.
- China-origin walnuts face 35% tariff in the US, significantly impacting cost competitiveness.
- Aflatoxin testing is critical for all markets, especially the US and EU.

📌 VI. Common Mistakes & Pitfall Avoidance Guide (Lessons Learned)

❌ Mistake 1: Declaring "Processed Walnuts" as "Raw Walnuts"
👉 Consequence: FDA may reject for lacking processed food facility registration; customs may impose penalties.

❌ Mistake 2: Not providing Aflatoxin Test Report
👉 Consequence: Shipment detained or destroyed at US port → Total loss!

❌ Mistake 3: Mixing Raw and Processed Walnuts in Same Shipment
👉 Consequence: Customs will classify based on the highest risk, possibly penalizing the entire batch.

❌ Mistake 4: Using "Walnut Kernels" as Generic Name
👉 Consequence: Vague description leads to customs inspection → Delay of 2-4 weeks.

✅ Correct Practice:

"Shelled Walnuts, Raw, Vacuum-Packed, Net Weight 10kg, Batch No. XYZ, Aflatoxin < 10ppb, FDA Facility Reg. No. XXXXX"

🎯 VII. Conclusion: Professional Declaration, Save Time and Cost!

🎯 Remember the Mnemonic:

🔹 "Raw 0813, Processed 2008, Label Clearly, Tax 35%."
🔹 "Aflatoxin Test is Key, FDA Compliance is King, Declaration Accurate, Clearance Fast!"

📌 Pro Tip:
If your walnuts are originated from the USA, Canada, Chile, or Turkey, you may apply for lower tariffs (0%-5%) due to FTA or normal trade relations.
For China-origin, consider pre-shipment inspection and FDA registration to expedite clearance.

📣 Take Action Now:

📞 Contact Professional Customs Broker + Provide Product Images + Apply for Pre-Ruling
🚀 Let your peeled walnuts, clear customs smoothly, export efficiently, profit doubled!

✨ Professional Clearance Starts with Accurate Classification!
💼 Every Cent of Your Cost Deserves to Be Calculated Precisely!