HTS 3002.12.00.40

Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS)

Duty Rates

General (Column 1 - MFN)
This rate follows a special calculation or is subject to specific conditions.

What HTS 3002.12.00.40 Covers

This statistical line covers fetal bovine serum, the blood serum fraction collected from bovine fetuses and widely used as a growth supplement in cell culture and biological research. It sits under heading 3002, which covers human and animal blood, antisera, blood fractions, and immunological products. FBS is classified here as an animal blood fraction.

Notes for Importers

Importers should note the strong regulatory overlay: FBS shipments commonly require USDA and other agency permits due to animal-origin disease controls, separate from tariff classification. Do not confuse serum used as a culture supplement with therapeutic antisera or immunological products, which fall in other 3002 breakouts. Country of origin and animal health documentation are frequently scrutinized for this product.

Product Category

Chemical Products

This chapter includes inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, fertilizers, and industrial chemical preparations.

Classification Details

FieldValue
HTS Code3002.12.00.40
DescriptionFetal Bovine Serum (FBS)
Chapter30 - Chemical Products
General Duty Rate
Rate TypeOther
Special Rates

Related HTS Codes

Other tariff codes under the same heading:

  • 3002.12.00 — Antisera and other blood fractions
  • 3002.13.00 — Immunological products, unmixed, not put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale
  • 3002.14.00 — Immunological products, mixed, not put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale
  • 3002.15.00 — Immunological products, put up in measured doses or in forms or packings for retail sale
  • 3002.41.00.00 — Vaccines for human medicine
  • 3002.42.00.00 — Vaccines for veterinary medicine
  • 3002.49.00 — Other
  • 3002.51.00.00 — Cell therapy products

Frequently Asked Questions

What is classified under this line?
Fetal bovine serum, the liquid or frozen serum fraction from bovine fetuses used chiefly as a supplement in cell and tissue culture.
Are there special import requirements for FBS?
Yes, typically. As an animal-origin biological, FBS often requires USDA and related agency permits and health documentation, which are separate from its tariff classification.
Is FBS the same as antiserum for classification?
No. FBS is a blood fraction classified in this breakout, while antisera and finished immunological products fall under other subheadings of heading 3002.
What is the HTS code 3002.12.00.40 used for?
HTS code 3002.12.00.40 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS). 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 3002.12.00.40?
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 3002.12.00.40?
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 Chemical Products products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 3002.12.00.40?
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 3002.12.00.40 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.