Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.
What HTS 0406.10 Covers
This subheading covers fresh, unripened or uncured cheese, including whey cheese, and curd. These are cheeses that have not gone through an aging or ripening process, such as fresh mozzarella, ricotta, cottage cheese, cream cheese, farmer cheese, and paneer-style products. Curd, the coagulated milk solids used as a base for many cheeses, is also included here.
Notes for Importers
The dividing line from other 0406 subheadings is ripening: aged or cured cheeses (cheddar, gouda, parmesan, blue) fall under other parts of heading 0406, not here. US dairy imports are frequently subject to tariff-rate quotas and licensing, so the specific statistical breakout under 0406.10 often depends on cheese type and quota status. Verify whether a product is truly unripened, since some soft cheeses undergo brief curing that shifts classification.
Product Category
Live Animals & Animal Products
This chapter covers live animals, meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, honey, and other animal-derived products.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 0406.10 |
| Description | Fresh (unripened or uncured) cheese, including whey cheese, and curd: |
| Chapter | 4 - Live Animals & Animal Products |
| General Duty Rate | |
| Rate Type | Other |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
- 0406.10.02.00 — Described in general note 15 of the tariff schedule and entered pursuant to its provisions
- 0406.10.04.00 — Described in additional U.S.note 16 to this chapter and entered pursuant to its provisions
- 0406.10.08.00 — Other
- 0406.10.12.00 — Described in general note 15 of the tariff schedule and entered pursuant to its provisions
- 0406.10.14.00 — Described in additional U.S. note 17 to this chapter and entered pursuant to its provisions
- 0406.10.18.00 — Other
- 0406.10.24.00 — Described in additional U.S. note 18 to this chapter and entered pursuant to its provisions
- 0406.10.28.00 — Other
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mozzarella classified here?
Fresh, unripened mozzarella generally falls under 0406.10 as a fresh cheese. Aged or processed forms may be classified elsewhere in heading 0406.
Does 0406.10 include curd?
Yes. The subheading text expressly includes curd along with fresh cheese and whey cheese.
Are ripened cheeses covered?
No. Ripened or cured cheeses such as cheddar and gouda are classified in other subheadings of 0406, not under the fresh cheese line.
What is the HTS code 0406.10 used for?
HTS code 0406.10 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Fresh (unripened or uncured) cheese, including whey cheese, and curd:. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 0406.10?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 0406.10?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Live Animals & Animal Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 0406.10?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 0406.10 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.