Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
5¢/kg on contents and container
This is a compound duty combining both a specific duty (per unit) and an ad valorem duty (percentage of value).
Special Trade Agreement Rates
The following countries and trade agreements qualify for reduced or eliminated tariffs:
GSP (Generalized System of Preferences)
Australia FTA
Bahrain FTA
Chile FTA
Colombia TPA
AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act)
Caribbean Basin Initiative
Israel FTA
Jordan FTA
Korea-U.S. (KORUS) FTA
Morocco FTA
Oman FTA
CAFTA-DR (Central America)
Panama TPA
Peru TPA
AGOA Least-Developed Beneficiary
Singapore FTA
Rate: Free (A,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG)
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
17.6¢/kg on contents and container
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 1509.90.20.00 Covers
This line covers olive oil of heading 1509 other than virgin olive oil, imported in immediate containers weighing under 18 kg with the container. In practice this means refined olive oil and blends of refined and virgin olive oil packaged in consumer or food-service sizes such as bottles, tins and jugs.
Notes for Importers
The two classification drivers are grade and pack size: virgin and extra virgin oils have their own lines, and the 18 kg container threshold separates retail-style packaging from bulk. Pomace olive oil, which is extracted from olive residue with solvents, is excluded from 1509 entirely and classifies under heading 1510. Products labeled pure or classic olive oil are usually refined blends and belong here rather than in the virgin lines.
Product Category
Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils
This chapter covers fats and oils from animals and plants, including margarine and similar preparations.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 1509.90.20.00 |
| Description | Weighing with the immediate container under 18 kg |
| Chapter | 15 - Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils |
| General Duty Rate | 5¢/kg on contents and container |
| Rate Type | Compound |
| 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:
Frequently Asked Questions
What products are classified under 1509.90.20.00?
Refined olive oil and refined-virgin blends, the products sold as pure, classic or simply olive oil, when packed in immediate containers weighing under 18 kg. Extra virgin and virgin oils classify under separate lines of heading 1509.
Does olive pomace oil classify under heading 1509?
No. Oil extracted from olive pomace with solvents classifies under heading 1510 even when blended with virgin olive oil. Heading 1509 is limited to oil obtained solely from the fruit of the olive tree by mechanical or other physical means plus permitted refining.
Why does the 18 kg container weight matter?
Heading 1509's US lines split on whether the oil arrives in immediate containers under 18 kg (retail and food-service packs) or in larger bulk containers. The weight includes the container itself, so verify the packed weight of drums or bag-in-box formats near the threshold.
What is the HTS code 1509.90.20.00 used for?
HTS code 1509.90.20.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Weighing with the immediate container under 18 kg. 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 1509.90.20.00?
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 1509.90.20.00?
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 Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 1509.90.20.00?
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 1509.90.20.00 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.