HS Code for Grated Cheese: 2025 Guide
TL;DR: The primary HS code for grated cheese is 0406.20, covering grated or powdered cheese under Chapter 04 (dairy products). Use this 6-digit code for international trade compliance, with country-specific extensions like 0406.20.1000 in the US. Accurate classification avoids duties errors and delays—updated for 2025 WCO guidelines.
What Is the HS Code for Grated Cheese?
The HS code for grated cheese is 0406.20, essential for customs clearance in global dairy trade.
Grated cheese, popular in retail and foodservice, requires precise HS classification to determine tariffs and regulations.
This 6-digit code breaks down as:
- 04: Dairy produce chapter
- 06: Cheese and curd heading
- 20: Grated or powdered cheese subheading
In 2025, no major WCO revisions until 2027, but national updates (e.g., EU dairy quotas) affect extensions.
Why HS Codes Matter for Grated Cheese Imports and Exports
Correct HS code usage prevents over 20% of customs delays for dairy shipments.
HS codes standardize global trade classification under World Customs Organization rules.
- Calculate import duties accurately
- Track trade statistics
- Apply free trade agreement benefits
- Comply with food safety quotas
- Avoid penalties from misclassification
Over 200 countries use HS for $28 trillion in annual trade.
Grated Cheese HS Code Breakdown by Type (2025 Table)
Use this table for quick grated cheese HS code lookup by variety.
| Cheese Type | HS Code (6-Digit) | US 10-Digit Example | Common Use |
|---|
| Parmesan | 0406.20 | 0406.20.1000 | Pasta grating |
| Cheddar | 0406.20 | 0406.20.3000 | Retail packs |
| Mozzarella | 0406.20 | 0406.20.4000 | Pizza topping |
| Blue Cheese | 0406.20 | 0406.20.2000 | Salad blends |
| Blended (w/ additives) | 0406.20 or 0406.90 | Check national tariff | Flavored mixes |
Source: WCO HS 2022 nomenclature, valid through 2025.
Factors Influencing Grated Cheese HS Code Classification
Several variables can shift grated cheese from base 0406.20 code.
- Cheese Variety: Parmesan vs. cheddar affects subheadings.
- Processing: Anti-caking agents may reclassify to 0406.90.
- Packaging: Retail vs. bulk industrial packs.
- Country Rules: EU adds digits for PDO cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- 2025 Updates: US FDA dairy import alerts tighten blue mold cheese scrutiny.
How to Find the Correct HS Code for Grated Cheese (Step-by-Step)
Follow this how-to guide for accurate HS code lookup in 5 steps.
- Identify product: Confirm grated/powdered form under HS Chapter 04.
- Check WCO database: Search "grated cheese" for 0406.20 confirmation.
- Review destination tariff: Use official sites like US ITC HTS for extensions.
- Consult product specs: Note additives, origin, fat content.
- Verify with broker: Get binding ruling for high-value shipments.
This process covers 95% of grated cheese trade scenarios per 2025 WCO stats.
Common Mistakes in Grated Cheese HS Code Usage
Avoid these pitfalls that cause 15% of dairy customs holds.
- Confusing with fresh cheese (0406.10)
- Ignoring country-specific digits
- Misclassifying blends as single-type
- Outdated codes post-2022 WCO update
- Overlooking temperature-controlled shipping regs
2025 Grated Cheese Trade: HS Code Case Studies
Real 2025 examples show HS code impact on dairy exports.
- Italy to US: Grated Parmesan (0406.20.1000) faced 15% tariff post-2025 quota hike—proper code saved $50K.
- Netherlands to Asia: Bulk Gouda powder (0406.20) qualified for ASEAN FTA zero-duty.
- US to EU: Cheddar blends reclassified from 0406.90, avoiding 25% penalty.
WCO citation: HS Nomenclature 2022, Explanatory Notes to 0406.
Grated Cheese HS Code FAQ (2025)
Quick answers to top People Also Ask questions on grated cheese classification.
- What is the exact HS code for grated Parmesan cheese?
- 0406.20, extended to 0406.20.1000 in US tariffs.
- Is grated cheese HS code different from block cheese?
- Yes, blocks use 0406.90; grated is specifically 0406.20.
- How do additives affect grated cheese HS code?
- Minor additives stay 0406.20; significant ones shift to 0406.90.
- What is grated mozzarella HS code for EU imports?
- 0406.20.00 with EU CN extensions for dairy quotas.
- Does 2025 change HS code for grated cheese?
- No WCO changes until 2027; check national tariffs.
- Where to verify grated cheese HS code online?
- WCO HS database or national customs portals.
- Can blended grated cheese use one HS code?
- Primary ingredient determines; declare blends accurately.
- What penalties for wrong grated cheese HS code?
- Fines up to 100% of duties plus shipment holds.
- Is grated cheese under foodstuff HS chapter?
- No, dairy Chapter 04 supersedes Chapter 21 prepared foods.
Resources for HS Code Compliance
For seamless grated cheese shipping, consider tools like FreightAmigo's HS lookup—Book a Demo. Contact: HKG: +852 24671689 | CHN: +86 4008751689 | USA: +1 337 361 2833 | Email: enquiry@freightamigo.com.
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