Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.
What HTS 0809.40 Covers
This subheading covers fresh plums, including the prune plum varieties grown for drying, and sloes (the small tart fruit of the blackthorn). It sits in Chapter 8, which covers edible fruit and nuts in their fresh state. The fruit must be fresh here; processed forms are classified elsewhere.
Notes for Importers
A common pitfall is confusing fresh prune plums with dried prunes. Once plums are dried they move to heading 0813 (dried fruit), and plums preserved in sugar, syrup, or otherwise prepared fall under Chapter 20. Sloes are grouped with plums botanically, so both share this subheading.
Product Category
Vegetable Products
This chapter includes cereals, flour, malt, edible vegetables, edible fruit, coffee, tea, spices, and related plant-based food products.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| HTS Code | 0809.40 |
| Description | Plums (including prune plums) and sloes: |
| Chapter | 8 - Vegetable Products |
| General Duty Rate | |
| Rate Type | Other |
| Special Rates |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
- 0809.10.00.00 — Apricots
- 0809.21.00.00 — Sour cherries (Prunus cerasus)
- 0809.29.00.00 — Other
- 0809.30.20.00 — If entered during the period from June 1 to November 30, inclusive, in any year
- 0809.30.40 — If entered at any other time
- 0809.40.20.00 — If entered during the period from January 1 to May 31, inclusive, in any year
- 0809.40.40.00 — If entered at any other time
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dried prunes classified here?
No. This subheading is for fresh plums and sloes only. Dried plums and prunes are classified under heading 0813, and plums prepared or preserved fall under Chapter 20.
What is the difference between a plum and a prune plum for classification?
Both are covered here when fresh. Prune plums are simply plum varieties suited to drying, but as long as they are imported fresh they stay in 0809.40.
Where do canned or jarred plums go?
Plums preserved in syrup, sugar, or otherwise prepared are classified in Chapter 20, not in this fresh-fruit subheading.
What is the HTS code 0809.40 used for?
HTS code 0809.40 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Plums (including prune plums) and sloes:. 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 0809.40?
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 0809.40?
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 Vegetable Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 0809.40?
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 0809.40 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.