HS Code for Flower tea

Introduction to Flower Tea and HS Codes

Flower tea, also known as floral infusion tea or herbal flower tea, has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique flavors, aromatic properties, and potential health benefits. As the global trade of these specialty teas continues to grow, it's crucial for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals to understand the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes for these products. In this article, we'll explore the world of flower teas and their corresponding HS codes, helping you navigate the complexities of international trade in this niche market.

Understanding HS Codes

Before delving into the specific HS codes for flower teas, let's briefly recap what HS codes are and why they're important:

The Harmonized System (HS) is an international nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) for the classification of goods. It's used by customs authorities around the world to identify products when assessing duties and taxes and for gathering statistics. The system is used by more than 200 countries and covers more than 5,000 commodity groups, each identified by a six-digit code.

HS Codes for Flower Teas

Flower teas can fall under different HS codes depending on their specific composition and preparation. Here are the most relevant HS codes for various types of flower teas:

1. HS Code 0902: Tea

This category includes traditional tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. While not specifically for flower teas, some scented teas that use tea leaves as a base with added flowers might fall under this category.

• 0902.10: Green tea (not fermented) in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3 kg
• 0902.20: Other green tea (not fermented)
• 0902.30: Black tea (fermented) and partly fermented tea, in immediate packings of a content not exceeding 3 kg
• 0902.40: Other black tea (fermented) and other partly fermented tea

For example, jasmine tea, which is green tea scented with jasmine flowers, would likely fall under 0902.10 or 0902.20, depending on its packaging.

2. HS Code 1211: Plants and parts of plants

This category is more specific to herbal and flower teas that don't contain leaves from the tea plant.

• 1211.90: Other plants and parts of plants, including seeds and fruits, of a kind used primarily in perfumery, in pharmacy or for insecticidal, fungicidal or similar purposes, fresh, chilled, frozen or dried, whether or not cut, crushed or powdered

Many pure flower teas, such as chamomile, hibiscus, or lavender, would fall under this category.

3. HS Code 2106: Food preparations not elsewhere specified or included

This is a catch-all category that might apply to some flower tea blends or preparations, especially if they contain additional ingredients beyond just dried flowers.

• 2106.90: Other food preparations not elsewhere specified or included

Specific Flower Tea Types and Their HS Codes

Let's look at some popular flower teas and their likely HS code classifications:

1. Chamomile Tea

HS Code: 1211.90
Chamomile flowers are dried and used for infusions, falling under the category of plants used for pharmaceutical purposes.

2. Hibiscus Tea

HS Code: 1211.90
Dried hibiscus flowers used for making tea are classified under this code.

3. Jasmine Tea

HS Code: 0902.10 or 0902.20
As mentioned earlier, jasmine tea is typically green tea scented with jasmine flowers, so it falls under the tea category.

4. Lavender Tea

HS Code: 1211.90
Pure lavender flowers for infusion would be classified here.

5. Rose Tea

HS Code: 1211.90
Dried rose petals for tea fall under this category.

6. Chrysanthemum Tea

HS Code: 1211.90
Dried chrysanthemum flowers for infusion are classified here.

Factors Affecting HS Code Classification

When determining the correct HS code for flower teas, consider the following factors:

1. Composition: Is the product purely dried flowers, or does it contain tea leaves or other ingredients?
2. Processing: How has the product been prepared? Is it simply dried, or has it undergone additional processing?
3. Intended Use: Is the product marketed and used primarily as a beverage, or does it have other purposes (e.g., medicinal)?
4. Packaging: The size and type of packaging can sometimes affect classification, particularly for traditional teas.

Importance of Correct HS Code Classification

Using the correct HS code for your flower tea products is crucial for several reasons:

1. Compliance: Proper classification ensures compliance with customs regulations and avoids potential penalties.
2. Duties and Taxes: Different HS codes may be subject to different duty rates and taxes.
3. Trade Statistics: Accurate classification contributes to reliable international trade statistics.
4. Trade Agreements: Some products may be eligible for preferential treatment under certain trade agreements, depending on their HS code.

How FreightAmigo Can Help with Flower Tea Shipping

At FreightAmigo, we understand the complexities of international trade, especially when it comes to niche products like flower teas. Our digital logistics platform is designed to simplify the shipping process for businesses of all sizes. Here's how we can assist you with your flower tea shipments:

1. HS Code Guidance: Our logistics experts can help you determine the correct HS codes for your flower tea products, ensuring accurate customs declarations.
2. Customs Documentation: We assist in preparing and reviewing all necessary customs documentation, reducing the risk of delays or issues at customs.
3. Competitive Rates: Our platform allows you to compare rates from multiple carriers, helping you find the most cost-effective shipping solution for your flower tea shipments.
4. Specialized Handling: We understand that flower teas may require special handling to maintain their quality and aroma. Our network of carriers includes those experienced in handling delicate and aromatic products.
5. Real-time Tracking: Keep an eye on your flower tea shipments with our advanced tracking capabilities, ensuring you're always informed about your cargo's location and status.
6. Regulatory Compliance: We stay up-to-date with international regulations regarding the import and export of tea and herbal products, helping you navigate any regulatory challenges.
7. Insurance Options: Protect your valuable flower tea shipments with our cargo insurance options, providing peace of mind throughout the shipping process.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct HS codes for flower teas is essential for smooth international trade in this growing market segment. Whether you're dealing with pure flower infusions, scented teas, or complex herbal blends, proper classification ensures compliance with customs regulations and facilitates efficient global commerce.

As the demand for floral infusion tea, herbal flower tea, and scented tea continues to grow, businesses in this sector need a reliable logistics partner to navigate the complexities of international shipping. FreightAmigo's digital logistics platform and expertise in handling specialty products make us the ideal choice for flower tea exporters and importers.

By leveraging our comprehensive digital supply chain finance platform, you can transform your logistics experience, ensuring that your aromatic and delicate flower tea products reach their destinations efficiently and in perfect condition. From comparing shipping rates to managing customs documentation and tracking shipments in real-time, FreightAmigo provides the tools and support you need to succeed in the global flower tea market.

Don't let logistics challenges hinder your flower tea business's growth. Contact FreightAmigo today to discover how our digital logistics solutions can streamline your shipping processes and help your business bloom in the international market.