Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
9.6%
This is an ad valorem duty, meaning the import duty is calculated as a percentage (9.6%) of the declared value of the imported goods.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
35%
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 0406.20.55.00 Covers
Grated or powdered cheeses made from sheep's milk, such as grated Pecorino Romano or other hard sheep cheeses sold in shaker jars, pouches, or bulk bags for food service. It sits under heading 0406 (cheese and curd) in the subheading for grated or powdered cheeses of all kinds. The cheese must be made from sheep's milk to fall here.
Notes for Importers
The most common product here is grated Pecorino Romano from Italy. If the same cheese is imported in wheels or wedges rather than grated or powdered form, it belongs elsewhere in 0406, and blends of sheep and cow milk cheese can shift the classification. Many cheese lines in chapter 4 are subject to tariff-rate quotas and USDA import licensing, so confirm whether your product needs a license before shipping.
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 | 0406.20.55.00 |
| Description | Cheeses made from sheep's milk |
| Chapter | 4 - Live Animals & Animal Products |
| General Duty Rate | 9.6% |
| Rate Type | Ad Valorem |
| Special Rates | Free (A+,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) |
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
Does this code cover Pecorino Romano?
Yes, when it is imported already grated or in powder form. Whole wheels or cut wedges of Pecorino are classified under other sheep's milk cheese provisions within heading 0406.
What if the cheese is a blend of sheep and cow milk?
This provision is for cheeses made from sheep's milk. A blend containing cow's milk generally falls under other grated or powdered cheese lines, which may also carry quota and licensing requirements.
Do I need an import license for cheese under this code?
Many cheeses are subject to USDA dairy import licensing and tariff-rate quotas. Check the applicable additional U.S. notes to chapter 4 and confirm licensing status for your specific product before importing.
What is the HTS code 0406.20.55.00 used for?
HTS code 0406.20.55.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Cheeses made from sheep's milk. 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 0406.20.55.00?
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 0406.20.55.00?
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 0406.20.55.00?
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 0406.20.55.00 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.